AOF Activities & Events

Sheldon W. Helms on Counseling Quackery

The 60s (ah, the 60s) saw a pop psychotherapy explosion, and with it, a radioactive fallout of options for those who found the old Freudian approach wanting. Consumers now must sift through dozens of choices -- some somewhat effective, some a waste of time and money, and some downright dangerous.

So what makes an effective therapy? How can you spot the fads and pseudoscience that masquerade as clinical psychology? And how can you avoid being a victim?

Professor Sheldon W. Helms will describe several quack therapies – some from mainstream psychology – explaining why they are less than sound in their approach to mental health. He will also share tips on how to spot fakers and snake-oil peddlers, and provide practical advice for those interested in real therapy to improve their lives.

Sheldon is a Professor of Experimental Psychology at Ohlone College in Fremont, CA, where he serves as senior faculty member in the psychology department. He holds a master’s degree in psychology and has over 20 years of teaching experience. In addition to his full-time teaching role, Sheldon serves as faculty adviser to the Ohlone Psychology Club through which he runs their successful Ohlone Speaker Series, hosting lectures and presentations by top-name scientists and skeptics.

Another great event of the AOF Speaker Series. We're so proud of it, we need therapy.

[Photo credit: Karl Withakay]