Meet the Clinical Staff

J. LeBron Rankins, Ph.D.Clinical StaffJ. LeBron Rankins, Ph.D.
Psychologist, Licensed Psychologist, State of New York, Ph.D., Kent State University

My earliest memory of helping someone experiencing a personal challenge was in high school. Helping at that time was simply intuitive. Wanting to be more helpful, I earned my undergraduate degree in psychology from Central State University, in Ohio, and my graduate degree in clinical psychology from Kent State University. Following the 2003 completion of my clinical internship at the University of Pittsburgh, I began my work at Ithaca College.

On campus, my primary role is providing clinical care to students and supporting those concerned about a student. I also coordinate Counseling and Psychological Services’ Suicide Prevention Program. That program aims to increase the campus community’s awareness of signs of distress and how to connect someone in distress with someone able to help. 

I am very grateful for the work I get to do. I consider myself a very engaging and sometimes challenging kind of therapist. I try to become a mirror of sorts, so that my clients get to see themselves, their challenges, and their strengths in ways that foster personal growth. Much of my work is cognitive-behaviorally focused; however, I aim to be flexible enough in my approach to counseling to be maximally effective with every client.

Outside of work, you might find me engaged in any number of things. I am a naturally curious person and find exploring new things enhances the joy of living.