Dr. Philip Chanin: A Psychologist, Writer, and Keeper of a Powerful Legacy
Dr. Philip Chanin is a Board Certified Clinical Psychologist whose professional life reflects decades of clinical expertise, academic contribution, and deep personal storytelling. Known not only for his work in psychology but also as the author of Mother of Courage, Dr. Chanin brings together science, compassion, and narrative to honor both the human mind and the human spirit.
A Strong Academic Foundation
Dr. Chanin’s journey began with a Bachelor’s Degree from Amherst College, followed by a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. His academic training laid the groundwork for a career focused on understanding emotional resilience, trauma, and personal growth—core themes that appear both in his clinical work and his writing.
He completed post-doctoral training in clinical psychology in Massachusetts and Philadelphia at The Devereux Foundation, gaining extensive experience in treating complex psychological issues across diverse populations.
A Career Shaped by Clinical Excellence
Throughout his career, Dr. Chanin has held licenses in multiple states, including Tennessee, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine. His professional path reflects both mobility and depth, shaped by a commitment to clinical excellence and ethical care.
He has worked in private practice settings as well as inpatient treatment facilities, including five years at an inpatient substance abuse treatment hospital in New Hampshire. These experiences broadened his understanding of addiction, recovery, and long-term psychological healing.
Leadership and Professional Recognition
Dr. Chanin is Board Certified through the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP), a distinction that reflects the highest standards of professional competence. He is also a nationally Certified Group Psychotherapist and an Advanced Imago Therapist, specializing in relationship-based therapeutic approaches.
His leadership roles include serving as Chair of the Board of Directors of the Nashville Psychotherapy Institute, where he helped guide professional education and ethical practice within the psychotherapy community.
Academic Contribution and Mentorship
In addition to private practice, Dr. Chanin serves as an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. In this role, he provides supervision and psychotherapy training to psychiatric residents, contributing to the education of future mental health professionals.
His academic involvement reflects a lifelong dedication to teaching, mentorship, and advancing the field of psychology through thoughtful clinical supervision.
Writing as a Form of Healing and Meaning
Beyond clinical work, Dr. Chanin is a passionate writer. He has authored more than 60 articles on his psychology practice website, sharing insights into emotional well-being, relationships, and personal growth. Writing serves as an extension of his therapeutic philosophy—offering reflection, understanding, and guidance beyond the therapy room.
This love of writing reached its fullest expression in the publication of Mother of Courage: The True Story of an Armless Dentist and Her Triumph Over Tragedy. The book represents the fulfillment of a long-held dream: telling the extraordinary story of his mother, Margaret Chanin.
Preserving a Mother’s Story
Mother of Courage is both biography and memoir, blending professional insight with deeply personal reflection. Through this work, Dr. Chanin honors his mother’s resilience, faith, and determination after a life-altering tragedy. The book stands as a tribute not only to Margaret Chanin’s strength, but also to the values she passed on—perseverance, compassion, and purpose.
The project reflects Dr. Chanin’s unique ability to combine psychological insight with narrative storytelling, creating a work that resonates emotionally while offering timeless lessons.
Life Beyond the Profession
Outside of his professional life, Dr. Chanin enjoys spending time with his wife and two grown stepchildren. His interests include reading, writing, walking, yoga, racquet sports, and travel within the United States and internationally. These pursuits reflect a balanced life grounded in curiosity, movement, and connection.
Conclusion: A Life of Purpose and Contribution
Dr. Philip Chanin’s career reflects a rare integration of clinical expertise, leadership, teaching, and storytelling. Whether working with patients, mentoring future psychiatrists, or preserving an extraordinary family legacy, his work is guided by empathy and integrity.
Through psychology and authorship alike, Dr. Chanin continues to contribute meaningfully to the understanding of resilience, healing, and the enduring power of human courage.