After a remarkable 55-year career dedicated to the well-being of children and families, Dr. David A. Crenshaw, Chief of Clinical Services at the Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie, has announced his retirement.
Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Crenshaw has been a trailblazer in the field of clinical psychology, emphasizing the importance of child and adolescent therapy, trauma and abuse interventions, resilience, play therapy, and family therapy. As a Board Certified Clinical Psychologist by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) and a Fellow of prestigious psychological associations, Dr. Crenshaw has made an indelible mark on his profession.
In 2010-11, Dr. Crenshaw and his colleague Lori Stella, LCSW-R, led a team in collaboration with the Dutchess County District Attorney to establish a legal precedent in New York for allowing Courthouse Dogs to comfort child witnesses testifying against their alleged abusers. The ruling by Judge Stephen Greller to permit the presence of Courthouse Dogs has been upheld by both the Appellate Court and the highest court in New York, the Court of Appeals.
Dr. Crenshaw’s contributions extend beyond his clinical practice, including teaching roles at institutions like Johns Hopkins and Columbia University. He has authored numerous professional books, journal articles, and book chapters, further solidifying his reputation as a leading expert in child therapy.
Recognized for his outstanding service and advocacy, Dr. Crenshaw has received multiple Lifetime Achievement Awards from organizations such as the Hudson Valley Psychological Association, the New York Association for Play Therapy, and the Association for Play Therapy (International). His commitment to children’s well-being has garnered prestigious local accolades, including the CASADA Award, the Serena Branson Award for Significant Contributions to Astor Services, and the Great Friend to Kids Award from the Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum.
Reflecting on his remarkable career, Dr. Crenshaw expressed gratitude for the opportunities he has had to make a positive impact on countless lives over the last 55 years. He emphasized his continued dedication to the field, even in retirement, as he plans to engage in writing, mentoring, and contributing to the advancement of child psychology.
Dr. Crenshaw’s passion, expertise, and unwavering commitment to children and adolescents have set a standard of excellence in clinical psychology that will resonate for years to come. His legacy will continue to inspire current and future generations of mental health professionals.
“I have had the pleasure to work alongside Dave for the last 45 years,” said Walter Joseph, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer at the Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie. “His commitment, compassion, and big heart have truly helped to heal hundreds of children and their families. His retirement is well deserved and we are looking forward to celebrating with him in September.”
A Retirement Celebration in honor of Dr. Crenshaw will be held on September 18, 2024, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at The Grandview in Poughkeepsie, NY. Reservations are now being accepted, and sponsorship opportunities are available. Visit www.childrenshome.us for more information. For inquiries about the event, please contact Erin Cafarelli at (845) 452-1420 ext. 177 or pr@childrenshome.us.
Proceeds from the event will establish the Fund for Healing & Hope, in honor of Dr. Crenshaw’s legacy. This fund will provide support for staff training and development, professional education events and speaking engagements.
About the Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie
On January 21, 1847, a group of Poughkeepsie women called the Female Guardian Society met to form the Poughkeepsie Orphan House and Home of the Friendless to care for the poor, abandoned, and neglected in their communities, most especially the children. They believed that all children deserve a nurturing and caring environment. More than 177 years later, their work continues.
Today, the Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie provides a full range of Community Based Services and Residential Services giving hope and healing to at-risk children throughout New York State. The Home is licensed by the New York State Office of Children & Family Services, the New York State Office of Mental Health, and the New York State Department of Health. The Children’s Home is accredited by the Council on Accreditation for its exemplary adherence to human welfare agency guidelines. In fiscal year 2023, the Home served approximately 2,174 children and their families.
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a place of healing and hope since 1847
