Published Works

I founded Thrive Neuropsych & Therapy with a deep belief that reflection and understanding lead to growth and healing. Alongside my clinical work, I’m passionate about exploring the psychological and cultural factors that shape how we connect and make meaning.
Below is a selection of my published research, book contributions, and professional presentations.

Peer-Reviewed Publications

  • Sutton, B., Maiden, J., Stewart, D. O., & Gordon, P. (2025).

    Bridging the gap: Integrating mental health and pastoral counseling for Black males through an intersectional lens. International Journal of Advanced Research, 13(4), 1056–1064.
    Explores how culturally responsive counseling bridges traditional pastoral care and modern therapy for Black men.

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  • Maiden, J., Stewart, P., Gordon, P., & Dorer, J. (2025).

    The impact of ultra-processed food consumption on depressive symptoms in adolescents: A scoping review. Journal of Mental Health in Rural Schools, 1(1), 57–64.
    Examines the link between diet quality and adolescent mental health, with a focus on rural populations.

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  • Stewart, D. O., Maiden, J., Jackson, P., & Gordon, P. (2024).

    The role of mentors in supporting the success of Black males in rehabilitation counseling master’s programs at historically Black colleges and universities. Journal of Rehabilitation Counseling Research and Practice, 45(1), 49–66.*
    Highlights how mentorship fosters success and belonging among Black male counseling students.

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  • Gordon, P., Maiden, J., Stewart, D. O., & Jackson, P. (2023).

    Trusting my gut feeling: Exploring the connection between the gut microbiome and depression. Boston Congress of Public Health Review, 62.
    Investigates the relationship between gut health and emotional well-being.

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  • Stewart, D. O., Maiden, J., & Gordon, P. (2025).

    Integrating Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Adlerian theory, and Humanistic theory: A systematic approach to holistic wellness in mental health counseling and psychotherapy.Journal of Mental Health.(Under review)
    Proposes an integrated therapeutic framework for holistic mental wellness.

Book Chapter

  • Sutton, B., Maiden, J., Stewart, D. O., & Gordon, P. (2025).

    SEL through school, family, and community partnerships. In D. O. Stewart (Ed.), The power of social and emotional learning for student success. IGI Global.
    Discusses how SEL initiatives strengthen connections among schools, families, and communities to support student growth.

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Presentations & Talks

  • Gordon, P. (2025, June 20).

    Is Reflective Functioning a Useful Tool to Aid in Addressing the Complicated Dynamics Between a Black Male Therapist and a White Male Psychiatric Resident?
    Major Area Paper presented at the Year-End Doctoral Research Symposium, George Washington University, Washington, DC. Examined cross-cultural countertransference and reflective functioning in supervision.

  • Gordon, P. (2025, February).

    Practicing presence: Implementing virtual reality therapy to reduce stress and anxiety among graduate students.
    Graduate School of Nursing Integrative Medicine Methodology Research Day, Bethesda, MD.
    Introduced the therapeutic use of Virtual Reality to support emotional regulation and mindfulness.

  • Gordon, P. (2024, August 20).

    Embracing the college experience.
    Principia College, Elsah, IL. Encouraged resilience and purpose among college students.

  • Gordon, P. (2024, April 23).

    Cultivating purpose in spite of circumstances.
    University of the District of Columbia, Washington, DC.
    Focused on finding meaning and strength through adversity.

  • Gordon, P. (2023, July 25).

    Cultivating purpose in spite of circumstances.
    Daniel K. Inouye Graduate School of Nursing, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD.

  • Gordon, P. (2023, May 24).

    The benefits of seeking mentorship.
    Daniel K. Inouye Graduate School of Nursing, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD.

  • Gordon, P. (2021, August 27).

    Counseling through a multicultural lens.
    Principia College, Elsah, IL.
    Highlights the importance of cultural humility in psychotherapy.