My Story

I grew up in the Houston area, not far from NASA. I always loved science and wanted to follow in Jane Goodall’s footsteps or become a theoretical physicist. Eventually, I turned my curiosity towards the inner life and studied clinical psychology. I came to Warren Wilson in the late 90s, drawn to the mission, the mountains, and the small liberal arts college. At Wilson, I have been able to pursue my interests in wellness, psychology, and expressive arts therapy. I advise the campus wellness program; conduct research on resilience, mindfulness, recovery from mental illness, and ways to achieve optimal performance; work with sports teams around the world; integrate music and movement in my classes; facilitate ecstatic dance on campus; and participate in several college music ensembles. I am grateful to be a long-time member of this community.

Robert Swoap
Robert Swoap waterskiing
Robert Swoap with a class

Education

  • B.A. in Psychology, Duke University
  • M.S. in Clinical & Health Psychology, University of Florida
  • Ph.D. in Clinical & Health Psychology, University of Florida

Research Interests

  • Music and Movement
  • Health Psychology
  • Sport and Exercise Psychology
  • Mindfulness and Resilience

Courses Taught

  • PSY 2550: Introduction to Music in Therapeutic Settings
  • PSY 3120: Psychology, Mental Health, and Distress
  • PSY 3170: Health Psychology
  • PSY 3260: Counseling Psychology

Crews and Other Activities

  • Advisor to the Wellness Crew
  • Community engagement partner with the Center for Conscious Living & Dying
  • Speaker for the National Conference on the Art & Science of Health Promotion
  • Facilitator of WWC ecstatic dance
  • Sport psychologist for Olympic, professional, collegiate, and high school athletes

Contact Dr. Swoap

Boon 220
WWC CPO 6037

PO Box 9000

Asheville, NC 28815-9000
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