Meet our new Associate Program Director, Dr. Charles Oliver!

Charles “Charlie” Oliver joined Communicare in August 2021, and moved quickly through the ranks, from mental health clinician to clinical supervisor. Within his first year and a half at the company, Charlie was promoted to Associate Program Director!

As Associate Program Director, Charlie duties include psychological treatment, overseeing program departments, lead CARF requirements and leads treatment team meetings with stakeholders.

On top of his new directorship role, he is still seeing several clients for mental health therapy. Charlie has experience in treating trauma, mood disorders (i.e., anxiety, depression), cognitive disorders, personality disorders, and substance abuse.

Growing up, Charlie had a different career path in mind. He wanted to either join the Army or be a dentist like his stepdad. It wasn’t until he took an Intro to Psychology course in undergrad that he decided to change career paths and pursue psychology.

Charlie earned his bachelor's degree from Central Michigan University in psychology in 2016. He continued his education to earn a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology in 2017, from the Michigan School of Psychology.

After his masters, Charlie decided to tackle a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree also from the Michigan School of Psychology.

“When pursuing your doctoral degree, persistence, like anything, is key,” Charlie stated.

Charlie had more obstacles to face due to starting his dissertation in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although it may have taken him a little longer to complete, Charlie was determined.

Later on in 2022, Charlie went on to successfully defend his dissertation titled, “The Effects of Strength Training on Psychological Well-Being in Adolescents.”

On December 6, 2022, Charlie became a doctor!

Before becoming a doctor, Charlie’s past clinical experience has been in differing settings including hospitals, community mental health, and private practice. His theoretical treatment is derived from both cognitive behavioral and humanistic approaches.

At Communicare, he specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy working with individuals with TBI’s.

“It’s very rewarding work,” Charlie says. “I like that you can see tangible growth with cognitive skills and that there is a multitude of psychological factors to focus on.”

Congratulations Dr. Oliver and congratulations on your new role as Associate Program Director!