About Dr. Ezema

Gabriel N. Ezema, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Counseling Psychology in the Department of Counseling, Educational Psychology, and Research at The University of Memphis. He earned his PhD in Counseling Psychology from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee.

Dr. Ezema’s research focuses on work as a social determinant of health, exploring how economic deprivation, marginalization, and cultural contexts shape vocational and mental health outcomes. Grounded in the Psychology of Working Theory (PWT), his work highlights the connection between employment scarcity in high-poverty areas and health disparities, with a strong emphasis on advancing health equity. His research program centers on four areas:

· Examining how intersectional identities such as culture, poverty, and systemic barriers shape vocational and health outcomes.

· Amplifying the experiences of underrepresented groups to inform clinical practice, community health programming, and research.

· Designing interventions that integrate mental health care with vocational support to reduce stress, improve resilience, and enhance overall well-being among low-income and minority populations.

· Advocating for policies and practices across healthcare, education, and employment systems that address work as a social determinant of health and promote equity.

With a background in philosophy, theology, and psychology, Dr. Ezema brings an interdisciplinary perspective to his teaching, research, and practice. He has spent over two decades serving marginalized communities as a Catholic priest, which continues to shape his commitment to culturally responsive approaches to mental health. His therapeutic style is relational and collaborative, centering clients’ values, beliefs, and lived experiences. He has a particular interest in working with international students and other vulnerable populations, helping them navigate cultural stressors while staying grounded in their identities.

As a faculty mentor and advisor, Dr. Ezema views his work with students as a partnership built on trust, respect, and growth. He supports his advisees through academic, clinical, and professional challenges, fostering a collaborative environment where they can build competence and confidence. His goal is to nurture reflective, capable, and compassionate scholars and practitioners prepared to thrive in the field.

Dr. Ezema serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Vocational Behavior and is an active member of the American Psychological Association

Education

Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee

M.A. Mental Health Counseling, Boston College

M.A. Theology and Ministry, Boston College

Bachelor of Theology, Pontifical Urbania University, Rome, Italy

Bachelor of Philosophy, Pontifical Urbania University, Rome, Italy

Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, University of Ibadan, Nigeria