The 25-year-old has recently come under scrutiny from a section of the Aberdeen support who question his place in the squad then other areas need strengthening.
Goodwillie hasn't scored since October 2nd and the Dons have struggled in the intervening time with goals drying up.
But Docherty believes that Goodwillie's critics are missing the player's hard work on the pitch and in training, and is confident the club can get the best out of the striker.
A few weeks ago, Docherty said: "No one has a higher regard for David Goodwillie than myself and the manager.
"Hopefully, he is in a place where he is enjoying his football and has a smile on his face in training.
“With the ability he has, if he is a happy player then you will get the best out of him and that can only be good for Aberdeen.
"People underestimate how good a professional David Goodwillie is. He is a top professional.
"We are fortunate to have good professionals at the club who we can pick and choose from depending on the opposition we play."
Source: Press & Journal