New Member Spotlight - Heidi Bausch

1) What is your background in psychology (e.g., education)

I am entering the second year of a doctoral program in counseling psychology, at University of St. Thomas.  Prior to this, I was fortunate to receive a Master of Arts in counseling psychology from University of St. Thomas in 2016 and a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and philosophy from Augsburg College in 2007. Over the past three years I have been able to work with adolescents and emerging adults, as well as individuals with a variety of mental health and substance use struggles.

2) Describe your current occupation

Currently, I enjoy working as a psychiatric associate at the University of Minnesota Medical Center (Fairview), where I deliver quality patient care on the adolescent behavioral health unit in collaboration with a multi-disciplinary team.  I facilitate psychoeducation groups on topics such as distress tolerance, emotional regulation, coping skills, nutrition, mindfulness and boundaries, to support treatment goals and objectives.

In August, I am excited to begin as a clinical trainee at CARE Counseling in Minneapolis.

I participated in my first Mental Health Day on the Hill on March 16, 2017 with MPA.  As part of the event, I met with Senator Matt Klein and Representative Regina Barr to advocate for:1) Changes to Psychology Practice Act (HF1282/SF966) - “to provide clarification on problematic issues including need for licensure of academic psychologists and supervision requirements”. MY understanding - there are not enough clinicians to support MH demands, this bill worked to create access to practice in the field; and, (2) Brief Diagnostic Assessment Amendment - “parse down requirements to the Diagnostic Assessment to add flexibility and increase access to services”. MY understanding - allow for 10 sessions  for patients/clients for assessment process, enables more comprehensive and sensitive quality care.  The experience energized me to take a more active role in advocacy and policy in my career and I plan to participate in next year’s Day on the Hill!

Following this exposure to MPA, I eagerly accepted an invitation to be on the MPA 2018 Annual Convention Committee.  I am contributing to discussions on conference theme, presenters and event planning.

3) What inspired you to pursue a degree in psychology?

I have always held a passion and vocational mission to be of service. Throughout my undergraduate degree, I was eager to learn about human behavior, psychopathology, personality disorders, assessment, and the various theoretical approaches.  From then on the field of mental and behavioral health has continued to captivate me.  I am eternally curious about the art of therapy. After six years of working in marketing, I became attuned to my intrinsic motivation to be of service in the field of mental health.  I initiated the leap from business to my original path of psychology to begin my Master’s, during which I have developed a unique perseverance and appreciation for individual and cultural diversity and advocacy.

I intensely deem that if one has the power and capability to positively impact one carries the duty to do so.  As naïve as it may sound, I believe that one person helping another, either through mentoring, adopting, educating, counseling, advocating, creating policies, and so forth, creates a ripple effect that may someday generate a more harmonious and healthy world.  My determination to be of service, open-minded and compassionate nature, diverse life experiences and resilience, dedication to self-development as well as ability to remain humble and teachable, and my evolving clinical judgment and case conceptualization skills, all fuel me to become a counseling psychologist.

 4) Why did you join the Minnesota Psychological Association?

To become more involved in the field of psychology on a local and national level. To be more engaged with legislation and advocate for quality care to be provided for clients/patients.  To stay informed on the rapidly changing healthcare environment, mental health needs in the community, early intervention strategies, mental health promotion, and so on.

5) What do you hope to learn/gain from your new membership?

Connect and consult with other MN professionals in the greater metro area and state. Create a personal advocacy plan to ensure I am doing all I can to increase the well-being of those our field serves.  Pursue continuing education opportunities offered through MPA. Join additional committees as the years progress and my advocacy efforts evolve, such as Diversity, Education & Training, Ethics, and Leadership Development. 

6) Any outside hobbies/interests you do not mind sharing

I have been a member of the 10,000 Lakes Concours d’Elegance Event Committee from 2013-2017.  The event on July 30th is a gathering of rare and valuable classic automobiles, watercraft and motorcycles along the lakeshore of Minnetonka. The event benefits BRIDGING, whose mission is to “improve lives by providing quality furniture and household goods to those transitioning out of homelessness and poverty.”

I am also an avid appreciator of the outdoors (in every season), exploring all the North has to offer - trekking, hiking, canoeing, camping, and experiencing the wonders of Minnesota whenever possible!