Areas of Expertise
- Clinical psychology, clinical behavior analysis, third-wave behavior therapies, generalist clinical practice, intensive short-term treatments for adults with high acuity
Education
- B.S. in psychology (behavioral science), Western Michigan University (2014)
- M.A. in psychology, Western Michigan University (2017)
- Ph.D. in clinical psychology, Western Michigan University (2020)
What's My Why?
I’m passionate about helping students foster self-acceptance and commit to meaningful action and growth - even when doing so is uncomfortable. My background in clinical psychology and behavior analysis has shaped my belief that growth happens in the right environment, and I strive to create that space in my classroom. What I love most about teaching is getting to know my students - their perspectives, experiences and goals - and helping them connect what they learn to their own lives. I also find it meaningful to support the behavior analysis program, as I believe in the positive impact of the work they do and the importance of training effective practitioners.
Professional Experience
In addition to Salve, I work full-time as a clinical psychologist. I completed my pre-doctoral internship at the VA Puget Sound Health Care System, American Lake Division, training in general mental health, primary care behavioral health integration and outpatient PTSD clinics. I provided evidence-based treatments including acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, unified protocol, prolonged exposure and integrative behavioral couples therapy. I completed my post-doctoral fellowship at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University/Providence VA Medical Center, working in a general mental health outpatient clinic. There, I specialized in third-wave behavior therapies, risk assessments in mental health urgent care and became certified in cognitive processing therapy. Currently, I practice as a generalist at Rhode Island Hospital's Adult Partial Hospital Program, providing ACT and DBT to adults with acute and complex mental health concerns. I also serve as the resident coordinator and diversity, equity and inclusion champion.