Hi, I'm Christian.

I'm a licensed clinical social worker, Senior Lecturer at the Indiana University School of Social Work, researcher, therapist, and presenter. 




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Higher Ed 

I am full-time teaching faculty at IUSSW, teaching MSW-level coursework. I am a 2024 recipient of the Indiana University Trustees’ Teaching Award and the 2025 recipient of the Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching.

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Nationally Recognized Presenter

I have presented at the CSWE Technology Summit, the Social Work Distance Education Conference, the Institute for Strengthening Families, and other national and regional conferences.


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Telehealth Counselor 

I hold clinical licensure in Indiana and Minnesota. I help individuals identify and alter unhelpful beliefs and behaviors, striving for emotional and spiritual well-being. With a holistic approach incorporating CBT, DBT, and mind-body wellness, my goal is to help heal old wounds, break destructive patterns, and cultivate resilience. I also help individuals work through adjustments, whether triggered by existential crises, ontological shock, major life changes, or traumatic events.

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Good Vibes

I believe in spreading authentic positivity no matter the endeavor. I believe in showing my students myself as Christian Deck the human, versus perhaps their expectation of who Professor Deck the instructor would likely be.

“Nature loves courage. You make the commitment and nature will respond to that commitment by removing impossible obstacles. Dream the impossible dream and the world will not grind you under, it will lift you up. This is how magic is done. By hurling yourself into the abyss and discovering it's a feather bed.”

      ― Terence McKenna 


Philosophy on Online Education

I believe equitable access to high-quality online social work education can be the difference between dreaming and doing. I look to advance our profession through academia, educating  both the next generation of MSW-level practitioners and faculty on best practices in distance education. 

Empowering Students

As an educator in the field of social work, my primary goal is to empower my students to develop their skills and become effective practitioners in the field. I believe that every student has unique strengths and talents, and my role as a teacher is to help them identify and build upon these qualities to achieve their academic and professional goals.

Teaching Philosophy

I have built out the foundation of my teaching is based in progressivism and humanism. This philosophy believes education should be student-centered, emphasizing the importance of creating an engaging, relevant, and empowering learning experience for students, with a focus on individual needs and social justice

Notable Publications

While teaching has been my primary academic focus, I have consistently engaged in research. I have co-authored the following publications: 

Professional Speaking 

I'm available to speak at conferences both in-person and virtually on topics relating but not limited to:

I'm also available to provide 60-90 minute mental wellness workshops. 

Booking inquiries can be made via email. 


Connect with me on Linkedin and ResearchGate.