Otis Williams
Education
- Ph.D., Counseling Psychology (Howard University)
- M.S., Clinical Community Counseling (Johns Hopkins University)
- B.S., Psychology (Bowie State University)
Areas of Expertise
Africentric psychotherapy, Black manhood training, Black male/ female relationships, and Race-related stress and trauma
Biography
Otis Williams III, Ph.D., serves as Chair and Professor in the Department of Counseling at Bowie State University. He earned his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, with a subspecialty in African Studies, from Howard University. A licensed clinical professional counselor, Dr. Williams brings extensive clinical experience from a variety of settings, including private practice, correctional facilities, juvenile services programs, group homes, home-based services, and urban schools.
Dr. Williams chaired the committee responsible for developing the first Ph.D. program in Bowie State University’s history. He is also the founder and co-faculty advisor of the African Psychology Student Association and a member of the Fanon Project, a community-based research group. In addition, he serves as an ad hoc reviewer for the Journal of Black Psychology.
Dr. Williams has received numerous honors recognizing his contributions to counseling, diversity, and mentorship. These include the Maryland Counseling Association’s 2025 Diversity Achievement Award, the University System of Maryland’s 2024 Faculty Award for Excellence in Mentoring, and the Maryland Association for Counselor Education and Supervision’s 2024 Outstanding Mentor Award.
Research Interests
African Nationhood Vocational Theory, Black Intimacy & Sex, Fanonian Liberation Praxis, and Race-related stress and trauma
Awards & Recognition
- 2025 Diversity Award (Maryland Counseling Association)
- 2024 Outstanding Mentor Award (MD Association of Counselor Education and Supervision)
- 2024 Faculty Award for Excellence in Mentoring (USM Board of Regents)
- 2022 Mfundishi (Master Teacher) Award (African Psychology Student Association)
- 2021 Outstanding Professor Award (Black Male Educators and Leaders Alliance)
Memberships / Affiliations
Association of Black Psychologists (ABPsi), American Counseling Association (ACA), Maryland Counseling Association (MCA), Maryland Counselors for Social Justice (MCSJ), and Maryland Association Spirituality Ethical & Religious Values (MASERVIC)
Other Resources