Michael Gatson

Core Faculty
College of Social and Behavioral Health
Barbara Solomon School of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)

Dr. Michael D. Gatson earned his bachelor's degree in psychology from Northwestern University, a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Grambling State University, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD) from Walden University. His direct social work experience has been in School Social Work, Crisis and Prevention, and Trauma Coordination. For 15 years, he served within the VA Healthcare system, contributing as a marriage and family therapist, social worker, and Director. Dr. Gatson's unwavering commitment to service is underscored by his eight years of dedicated service as an officer in the United States Army Medical Reserve.

With extensive experience as a clinical consultant and trainer, Dr. Gatson has conducted comprehensive training programs primarily focusing on critical areas such as PTSD, suicide prevention, and HIV/AIDS awareness at many state, regional, and national conferences. In higher education, he has taught at Louisiana State University, Wichita State University, Catholic University, and University of Maryland. Dr. Gatson has instructed courses ranging from Military Culture and Social Work Practice with Military Populations to Field Education, Research I & II, Treatment of Forensic Populations, and Skills Lab I & II. He began teaching for Walden as a contributing faculty in 2017 and joined the core faculty for Walden's MSW program in April 2023.

Education

PhD, Walden University

MSW, Grambling State University

BS, Northwestern State University

AS, Northwestern State University