Acclaimed Existential Psychotherapist for Children, Adolescents, and Adults
Lecturer, Speaker, and Public Intellectual
Consultant and Expert on Autism, Asperger's and Developmental Differences
Activist for Social Justice
Author of ROOTS OF DISTRESS; CHILDREN OUR TREASURE: MEETING OUR CHILDREN'S TRUE NEEDS OUTSIDE OF THE BIO-PSYCHIATRIC PARADIGM; COMPREHENSIVE STUDY OF A DRUG FREE APPROACH TO ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER; NAVIGATING THROUGH THE MAINSTREAM; and THE ODDITIES OF RELIGION as well as numerous articles on mental health reform, ethics in practice, autism/developmental differences, extreme states of mind (schizophrenia, bipolar), traumatic stress, and emotional health.
Speaker on local and nationally syndicated radio programs
Board Certified in Sexual Abuse Issues, American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress
"With much compassion and understanding, Dr. Edmunds has an innate ability to connect with distressed persons, aid them through challenges and seek to understand their experience. Dr. Edmunds is controversial and often iconoclastic as he is a critical thinker. From theologian to humanist, from youngest legislative aide and registered professional lobbyist to social activist, from mainstream mental health professional to an outspoken critic of his field, Dr. Edmunds has not been afraid to speak out and tackle irrationality, oppression, and injustice. From his youth, Dr. Edmunds has involved himself in struggle for human rights and the dignity of persons. He has never been one to back down when confronted with a challenge, and he does not accept things at face value, rather he has a brilliant and critical mind of reason."
Dr. D.L. Edmunds' private practice of psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults is located in Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania. Dr. Edmunds is one of few offering a holistic, drug free, relationship based approach that encourages self determination, autonomy, and dignity. Dr. Edmunds' work has focused on drug free approaches to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, relational approaches for autism/developmental differences, resolving traumatic stress, and helping individuals be able to understand and manage extreme states of mind (schizophrenia, bipolar). Dr. Edmunds has developed the Northeastern Pennsylvania Autism Acceptance Project that focuses on autonomy, understanding, tolerance, inclusion, self-determination and meaning. In addition to his private practice of psychotherapy, Dr. Edmunds serves as a consultant to special education departments and as a psychological evaluator for various community based programs for children. He is also involved in conflict resolution and mediation. Dr. Edmunds devotes time to scholarly research of consciousness studies, Comparative Religion and the Sociology of Religion, Philosophy, and Psychology.
Tunkhannock, a beautiful town in the Endless Mountains of Pennsylvania is located approximately 40 minutes from the Scranton/Wilkes Barre region and about 2.5 hours respectively from the New York (Manhattan) and Philadelphia Metropolitan areas. Dr. Edmunds is accepting new clients and is also arranging to see clients in Dunmore, Pennsylvania (next door to Scranton). To arrange a consultation, seminar/lecture, or for media interview requests, please write to:
Professor Dr. D.L. Edmunds is a noted child and family psychotherapist, expert on autism and developmental differences, Comparative Religion scholar, public intellectual, humanist, philosopher, critical thinker, social activist, and author.
Dr. Edmunds is a radical voice encouraging critical inquiry and challenging the psychiatric, political, and societal establishments. Dr. Edmunds strives for human rights, compassion, and dignity in the mental health system. He is an ally of the psychiatric survivor movement and a social activist promoting the need for understanding and equality and ending oppression in all its forms. In addition to his work as a psychotherapist, Dr. Edmunds conducts extensive study into the sociology of religion and belief, and has explored various religious groups (Jewish, Muslim, Eastern Orthodox Christian, Old Catholic, Roman Catholic, Buddhist, Jain, Sikh, Hindu, Baha'i, among others.) He is the author of the recent book, THE ODDITIES OF RELIGION which critically examines religious dogmatism. Dr. Edmunds has explored meditation practices as well as ayurveda. Dr. Edmunds collaborates with a number of individuals in the holistic healing arts, among them Maya Winddancer Noble, a licensed acupuncturist and scholar of Oriental Medicine. Together, they have sought means to manage physical and emotional pain and encourage wellness. Dr. Edmunds completed undergraduate studies at the University of Florida in Comparative Religion and Sociology. He completed post graduate coursework in Dispute Resolution through the Department of Conflict Analysis and Resolution at Nova Southeastern University. He received his Master of Arts from the University of Scranton and earned his Doctorate of Education in Community Counseling from the University of Sarasota. Dr. Edmunds lectures extensively and has been a guest on local and nationally syndicated radio programs broadcast in Los Angeles, CA; Melbourne, FL; Tampa/St.Petersburg/Clearwater, FL; Hartford, CT.
Dr. Dan L. Edmunds with the Dunkle Family at the opening of an exhibit on psychiatric abuse held in Center City, Philadelphia. The Dunkle family's daughter, Shania, sadly died in the office of her physician from a psychiatric drug.
A FEW STORIES FROM THE THERAPEUTIC WORK OF DR. D.L. EDMUNDS,ED.D.
A 5 year old boy who had been given a diagnosis of autism began working with Dr. Edmunds. He was completely non-verbal when Dr. Edmunds encountered him. He came into the office and began to bang on the computer keyboard. In the main room of the clinic was a large pit of plastic balls. Dr. Edmunds told him, "I am going to have to scoop you up and throw you in the ballpit." He smiled and walked away, only to return to the keyboard with his hand outstretched towards the keyboard, not touching it, just grinning. Just as he touched it, Dr. Edmunds picked him up and said, "yep, to the ballpit with you." He giggled and smiled, and then returned to the keyboard again, but this time he did not touch it, he just fell into Dr. Edmunds arms and then for the first time spoke "throw me in."
Alan was seen by most as an obstinate young man who had completed departed from any sense of reality. His hallucinations had earned him the diagnosis of a psychotic disorder not to mention he frequently displayed aggressive behavior. Reading the charts from before, it painted a monstrosity, but gave little detail to what Alan's experience might have been. When I first encountered Alan, I did not demand that he speak to me or that he not speak to me. I made no demands. I solely informed him that I was a supportive person who wanted to know him for who he is. This opened the door to intense dialogues. Together we explored questions about life that we both may have never thought much on before. The topics would drift to purpose, impermanence, suffering, the human condition. He related to me the pain of years of abuse, how he felt dehumanized and humiliated by the various people he thought would help him. He told me of his feelings of being alone, of being nothing. This feeling of nothing for him was an end at the time, but really it was the beginning. It was the door for him to question life, to question what he had been taught, to become. He related to me about his hallucinations, and his imaginary friends became mine as well. I asked about their habits, and their words. I noticed that these beings he saw were him at various points in time. As I met each of these beings, I learned something a bit more about the experience of Alan. Gradually as his emotional needs were met and he began to see himself once again as a singular person in the present moment of time and space, these beings began to depart. I saw in Alan the resilient human spirit and I will not forget him.
I was contacted on one occasion to conduct an assessment and consult with a family in regards to their son who was in his early twenties who had been involuntarily committed by his father to a state mental hospital. As I entered the facility, wondered how any in this place could not feel worthless, depressed, and mad. I entered to meet John. He appeared somewhat lethargic because of the cocktail of psychiatric drugs he was being given, but he greeted me warmly and with a smile. John began to immediately speak and told me how he was an African American infant who when he was around two years old was turned white. (John was quite pale in complexion). He then proceeded to tell me about the mind control he felt he was experiencing, that his freedom was taken away, he could no longer think for himself. I asked him who he felt was controlling his mind. His answer did not surprise me- it was his father. I later asked the mother if John's father was a racist and if John had been abused. The answer was yes to both; the father had been linked to racist organizations. The abuse began around the age of 2. It was clear that John had a powerful message, though surrounded in metaphor. To the person only wanting to categorize behavior and ignore experience, would they have known what John was seeking to communicate?
"(Dr. Edmunds) is gifted with intellectual curiosity, a well ordered mind and humility. Perhaps his best skills are his wonderful openness and ability to find calm even in the most troubled situation."-Eddy Regnier, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist and Associate Professor of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences
"I have known Dr. Edmunds for about 10 years, and am very familiar with his work. In my opinion, he is man of high integrity. He is firm in his convictions and not easily swayed by political pressure or public opinion. Regarding theology, I think these qualities are quintessential as the spirit speaks from the inside out, and a truly religious man must have the courage to trust and follow his inner guidance. (Dr. Edmunds) is also a very clear thinker and writer. And shows plenty of initiative. I especially admire his devotion to defending and supporting the spirited nature of our young people. I know he has a wealth of experience working with people, and I know he communicates his ideas well. He is not a closed system, but able to listen and open to new ideas...Dr. Edmunds is a great ally... He has confronted folks within the mental health system for awhile and chose integrity and truth over security and passivity more than once." -DR. JOHN BREEDING, PH.D, psychologist and author of "Wildest Colts Make the Best Horses" and "True Nature and Great Misunderstandings"
"Dr. Edmunds has developed a strong rapport with (my child). He even waits at the corner of our street in anticipation of his visits. More importantly, over the course of the summer we saw a definite improvement in (his) socialization and behavior at home...I have been extremely impressed with Dr. Edmunds' extensive knowledge...I also appreciate the comfort we receive in learning of positive results he has achieved with other children. Although I have read extensively myself and spoken with his developmental pediatrician, Dr. Edmunds has been able to translate his theoretical understanding into practical steps that have helped (my child) and us."-S.J., Pennsylvania
"(Dr. Edmunds) message is so vital, and so inspiring."- H.M., United Kingdom
"I really like what you are doing and have done. Congratulations, and keep up the good work!"
-Dr. Clancy D. McKenzie, M.D., Professor of Integrative Medicine, Board Certified in Psychiatry and Neurology, author of the Unification Theory of Mental Illness
"I think (Dr. Edmunds) insights are RIGHT ON and deserve a place in canon
psychological, growth, and child development texts. The patterns he
describes and the reactions I experienced, and have witnessed others
experiencing, could not have been more accurate and profound. I think a great
goal would be entirely replacing the DSM with the patterns and reactions
(Dr. Edmunds) observed because those present dilemmas that can actually be
nurtured and solved.- J.K., California
I first learned of Dr. Edmunds in February 2006, when I read an article on the Internet that he had written: “The Value of a Relationship Approach to Autism.” In an age when psychiatry and psychology have tried to reduce man’s hopes, his goals and his emotions to the biochemistry of the brain, I found Dr. Edmund’s article to be a breath of fresh air and I wrote to him and let him know that.
He responded saying that as a mental health professional, “I have fought to return a conscience to the profession where we understand that our work is not to subdue and label individuals and function as 'social police' but to aid in resolving conflict, restoring relationships, and helping individuals to become empowered and find meaning in their lives. Bio-psychiatry does not understand this and is completely incompatible with such a conception.”
Since that time, Dr. Edmunds began working with CCHR and was invited to become a member of the CCHR advisory board (a Commissioner) and he accepted. In that capacity, he has been interviewed about his work with Autistic children for a CCHR radio show, “Take America Back” and has assisted several CCHR chapters in their activities. One activity was to serve as a keynote speaker at the Grand Opening of the CCHR traveling exhibit in Buffalo, New York. I was told that his speech there was inspirational and was very well received by the audience.
-Carla Moxon, Director of Field Activities
Citizen's Commission on Human Rights International
"I have since KNOWN all that you are working on and it gives me a great sense of hope to finally hear that people are understanding and working towards a better, more humane way to care and prevent the kinds of horror and de- humanisation of beautiful people like L.! Thank you!---M.M.
New Zealand
I read your paper with great interest and appreciation for your putting forth the issues with such clarity. I, too, work with children and am deeply concerned about the number of children who are on drug "cocktails" and the frequency with which parents are told medicating is the treatment of choice. Most of these children started with an ADHD diagnosis and an ADHD drug and then progressed to the "cocktail" and more severe diagnoses as their brain and bodies reacted negatively to the initial drug and subsequent drugs, much as you describe in your paper.
I have been forwarding the link to your paper to other mental health professionals I know.
If possible, your very important point about the NIH concensus report needs attention. As written it says " we have do not have an independent, valid test for ADHD. Some people may not know how to decipher this statement, especially if they are not already knowlegeable about this report.
Thank you for your timely contribution. --R.P.
Clinical Psychologist
Illinois
"I admire your compassion and willingness to listen to the voice of children. I find your work very inspiring and it has helped my own family immensely!"
Dear Dr. Edmunds:
I agree with you- many of the problems we see around us are either
'societal' or 'systems' problems. However I also believe, very strongly,
that individuals have a huge responsibility in resisting some of the
temptations on offer and behaving ethically. In countries like mine,
where there are virtually no checks on physicians and corruption is the
norm, this is a huge problem.
I would be happy to collaborate with you in any way I can. Perhaps we
can think about some ideas how to take this forward. You would be most
welcome to make a presentation at our university- whenever the
opportunity arises.
In the meantime, let's keep the dialogue going. I am attaching another
one of my articles that you may find relevant.
With best wishes
Dr. Murad M Khan, MRCPsych
Professor
Department of Psychiatry
Aga Khan University
PO Box 3500, Stadium Road
Karachi-74800
PAKISTAN
"I really appreciated attending your lecture. You really listened to my concerns and seemed interested in my child's well being which I have not always found from other professionals.
wanted to let you know that I have been reading and enjoying your articles to no end. My daughter is 13 and she actually has done some "cutting".... I will elaborate more later. Just know that what you are doing is truly helping my family. I do ride her alot and am not very positive with her like I should be."
Dr. Dan,
Thanks for being there in my darkest times and giving me the courage and direction to overcome challenges and create a new and better life.
Thank you for your wonderful expertise in regards to autism. We have implemented many of your suggestions with great success.
My child experienced many nasty side effects from medication. We are relieved that we have escaped this nightmare and thank you for your words of encouragement and methods that have helped us to address our son's needs. Thanks!
Dr. Dan L. Edmunds with the Dunkle Family at the opening of an exhibit on psychiatric abuse held in Center City, Philadelphia. The Dunkle family's daughter, Shania, sadly died in the office of her physician from a psychiatric drug.
