We are delighted to feature Joe Gutierez, Class of 2018, for this month’s alumni spotlight. A third-generation Los Gatos resident, Joe attended undergraduate school at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he majored in English Literature. He holds a Master’s in Business Administration from Santa Clara University.  

Following a highly successful marketing career for Fortune 500 companies, which included clocking up to 400,000 air miles per year – Joe earned a certificate in Alcohol and/or Other Drugs (AOD) and Co-Occurring Disorders from the College of San Mateo. He returned to school full-time at age 65 to prepare for a second career as a licensed clinical therapist, graduating from NDNU’s School of Psychology in 2018. In addition to working with 29 individuals each week in private practice, he devotes up to 10 hours training and integrating new therapists into the fold at One Life Counseling Center in San Carlos. Approximately 60 percent of the clients he sees have substance use challenges. 

When he’s not busy doing volunteer work – Joe heads up NDNU’s Clinical Psychology Alumni Council and is active with his college fraternity’s Alumni Board – Joe enjoys anything having to do with self-care. 

Please tell us more about launching a second career and how you arrived at NDNU to do that. 

Throughout my life I’ve been actively engaged in philanthropy and community service. When I retired from corporate life and decided to pursue another career, it seemed only fitting to go into counseling where I could have a meaningful impact on people’s lives.  

NDNU’s School of Psychology had an excellent reputation and a standout Clinical Psychology Department so that’s where and why I applied. The fact that the faculty at NDNU are working mental health professionals and not just teaching staff was a big plus, as was the opportunity to conduct original research and write a real thesis. I also liked that the School of Psychology offers a Master of Science degree which, at least to me, distinguishes psychology as a science involving the body, as well as the mind and soul. The scheduling flexibility afforded by having evening classes was also very appealing.   

What was your experience like at NDNU? 

It was great – everyone was so welcoming. The campus with its rolling hills and wildlife provides a beautiful setting. The deer even come out to say hello and see what’s happening.  

From the very beginning, there was a sense of community within the department. We quickly became a cohort, working together with a common purpose and towards common goals. The rigor of the program was interesting and engaging, as were my classmates, many of whom came from very diverse backgrounds or were international students. 

I did my thesis on the effects of fertility challenges on men and its impact on mental health. Working on my thesis with Dr. John Astin as my advisor and doing original research were the crowning achievements of my time at NDNU. While I enjoyed all my coursework, the classes taught by Dr. Helen Marlo were especially meaningful, and I am a strong advocate of her approach to psychodynamic long-term therapy that entails going back into one’s past. 

What advice do you have for people considering applying to NDNU, especially those with similar interest in the School of Psychology?

I encourage prospective students to sit in on classes and talk with professors to understand the culture and get a clearer sense of the people who are part of this warm, engaging community. If you have the good fortune to be accepted into the program, I recommend that you get involved in activities as much as possible, attend social events, help out where you can and think early about your practicum experience. I raised my hand for nearly every volunteer opportunity, and while I wasn’t doing it for the prestige or glory, my involvement really paid off. Not only did I get to know my cohort better, I was honored and humbled as the very first recipient of the Spirit of Clinical Psychology Department award. Taking part in the Association of Student Leaders at NDNU all three years was also very gratifying.  

What about the Hallmarks of a Notre Dame de Namur Learning Community; are there any that strike a chord for you? 

They all resonate, actually, and it’s interesting to me that my workplace, One Life Counseling Center, embraces so many of these values. It is no coincidence that One Life recruits a number of NDNU graduates to join their counseling team.   

Anything else you would like to add? 

Yes! First, the tuition at NDNU is extremely reasonable, and for what you get, an incredible value. I personally would like to assist the university in their efforts to build a culture of philanthropy and encourage other alumni to support NDNU, perhaps starting with their respective Schools.  

Second, I would love to see the university offer a doctoral program in clinical psychology. If they do, I will be the first to attend and will bring others with me. 

And finally, I would be glad to answer any questions people may have about NDNU and/or the Clinical Psychology Department. You can reach me at josephgutierez@att.net.