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Phillip McGrawAmerican television host, writer, former psychologist
Date of Birth: 01.09.1950
Country:  USA |
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Biography of Phillip McGraw
Phillip Calvin McGraw, also known as Dr. Phil, is an American television host, author, and former psychologist. He was born on September 1, 1950, in Vinita, Oklahoma.
Early Life and Education
McGraw's father initially worked as an equipment supplier for oil companies but decided to pursue his dream of becoming a psychologist after the birth of his son. In 1968, McGraw enrolled at the University of Tulsa on a sports scholarship, but later transferred to Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas. He graduated from the university in 1975 with a bachelor's degree in psychology. McGraw continued his education and earned a master's degree in experimental psychology in 1976. In 1979, he obtained a doctoral degree in clinical psychology from the University of North Texas, where he studied under the guidance of Frank Lawless, who later became the main psychology consultant for the "Dr. Phil" show.
Career
After completing his doctoral program, McGraw briefly worked in the construction business with his stepbrother before joining his father's private psychological clinic. In 1983, McGraw, his father, and a successful Texas businesswoman named Telma Box founded a series of psychological seminars called "Pathways." These seminars became successful, and much of the material from the seminars formed the basis of McGraw's first best-selling book, "Life Strategies." However, a disagreement arose between McGraw and his father regarding the sale of the seminars, which led to a prolonged estrangement between them.
In 1990, McGraw co-founded a legal consulting firm called "Courtroom Sciences Inc." with attorney Gary Dobbs. This firm would later play a crucial role in his connection with Oprah Winfrey. The success of the firm allowed McGraw to temporarily put his psychology career on hold. However, he maintained his psychology license until 2006.
In 1995, Winfrey hired McGraw's consulting firm for a high-profile case, which resulted in a successful outcome. Impressed by his work, Winfrey invited McGraw to appear on her show as an expert on interpersonal relationships and life strategies. The appearances on Winfrey's show were highly successful, and in 2002, McGraw launched his own television show, "Dr. Phil." The show, similar to Winfrey's, provided advice on various life problems.
In addition to his television career, McGraw ventured into the weight loss industry in 2003, promoting shakes, energy bars, and dietary supplements. However, he faced criticism for stepping outside his area of expertise as a psychologist. The Federal Trade Commission investigated his activities, and he withdrew most of the products from the market. In 2005, he faced several lawsuits from individuals who claimed that his weight loss supplements did not deliver the promised results, resulting in significant financial losses for McGraw.
Despite these challenges, McGraw continued to publish books and released another bestseller in 2005 titled "Family First," which focused on family issues. The success of his books attracted the attention of "King World Productions, Inc," who became sponsors of his show for the 2013-2014 season.
Today, Dr. Phil remains a prominent figure in the television industry, providing advice and guidance to millions of viewers through his show.
