1) What is your background in psychology (e.g., education)?
I received my M.A. in Personality Psychology from American University in Washington DC in 2004 and completed my Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology at Loyola University Maryland in Baltimore in 2009.
2) Describe your current occupation and any involvement in the Minnesota Psychological Association if applicable.
I am currently a staff psychologist in the Counseling and Psychological Services at the University of St Thomas and was recently elected co-chair of the New Psychologist Network at MPA.
3) What inspired you to pursue a degree in psychology?
People are amazingly complex and full of strength, many times unbeknownst to them. I wanted to be a part of helping people connect to their stories, their strengths, and a sense of empowerment to improve their internal and external experiences.
4) Why did you join the Minnesota Psychological Association?
I joined for the convention and stayed for the connections! Essentially, I joined MPA hoping to make professional connections and take advantage of opportunities to learn alongside other new and more well-seasoned psychologists.
5) What do you hope to learn/gain from your new membership?
Broader and deeper connections, a chance to learn alongside local colleagues, and a sense of belonging to the large community of psychologists in Minnesota.
6) Any outside hobbies/interests you do not mind sharing?
Now that I have time to read for pleasure, I’ve always got a stack of fun books on my bedside table. I’m known to go through phases of obsessive knitting, and I love biking around the lakes on a nice summer day.