Ray W. Christner

PRESIDENT & CO-FOUNDER

Dr. Ray Christner brings over 30 years of mental health expertise to his role as President and Co-Founder of Psyched to Practice.

With a distinguished background spanning clinical psychology, school psychology, and business leadership, Ray has dedicated his career to bridging the gap between research and practice, making complex psychological concepts accessible to mental health professionals across diverse settings.

Ray's extensive experience includes work in schools, community mental health centers, courts, prisons, medical schools, and private practice, providing him with a unique perspective on collaborative care across different systems. As a former CEO of a group behavioral health practice for 15 years, he understands both the clinical and business sides of mental health services. Today, he focuses his clinical work on psychological and neuropsychological assessments, psychotherapy, consultation, and forensic work through his private practice.

His impressive credentials include a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology, dual master's degrees in school and clinical psychology, and licensure as a psychologist in Pennsylvania and Delaware. Ray is board certified (ABPP) in behavioral and cognitive psychology, holds certification as a school psychologist (NCSP), and maintains Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT), enabling practice in 41 states. His expertise has been recognized through prestigious honors, including being named a Fellow of the Association of Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT) and receiving the 2025 Award for Distinguished Contribution to School Psychology from the Pennsylvania Psychology Association.

As a prolific contributor to the field, Ray has authored or edited 11 books, serves as Book Series Editor of the School-Based Practice in Action Series, and has delivered over 200 presentations at local, state, national, and international levels. He writes a Psychology Today blog called "Living Psyched" and is currently developing the Christner Behavior and Adaptability Assessment System (C-BAAS) with PAR, Inc., scheduled for release in 2026. His expertise extends to public education through media appearances on Today, Parents, Newsweek, ABC, Fox, and other major outlets.

Three years ago, Ray co-founded Psyched to Practice with Paul Wagner. Through the platform, Ray continues his mission of providing research-based information in an accessible, practical format that empowers mental health professionals to create meaningful change in their clients' lives.

When not advancing the field of psychology, Ray enjoys his passion for cooking as a self-proclaimed foodie and chef, spending time with family, traveling, and relaxing at his beach house.

"The greatest lessons I've learned came from those who shared their knowledge without hesitation, and that spirit fuels both my careers and our mission at Psyched to Practice. Knowledge grows through sharing, and I am committed to keeping that momentum alive for every person I meet."

- Ray W. Christner