As a clinical faculty member, I am focused on outreach efforts including community educational programs and how students gain experiences in the real world. Much of my work is focused on developing healthy relationships for youth in high schools and for couples in the community. Therefore, imbedding undergraduate and graduate students in school and community settings is a priority for the students I work with. I believe that experiences outside the classroom lead to personal and professional growth, as well as solidification of knowledge and exposure to diverse views and backgrounds. An applied assistantship or class experience can also lead to less othering and build ways to inclusivity and understanding.

Every individual has a unique background that is influenced by the challenges or privileges of aspects of oneself (e.g., race, sex, gender, class). I aim to learn from the students I work with, meet each person where they are, build on individuals’ strengths, and be a support through challenges. Students have the opportunity, and are encouraged, to discuss, assess, and learn about experiences of diverse individuals, couples, and families through research, programmatic experience, and trainings.

I have a deep appreciation for the fact that students at any stage of education have a variety of educational and professional goals. I meet regularly (i.e., weekly) with students and am available for meetings outside of regularly scheduled meetings. When I work with students I discuss a mutual agreement between them and myself to focus on several skills to help them reach their goals that include:

1. Setting and openly communicating boundaries, needs, and accommodations
2. Valuing self-care and respecting other’s needs for balance
3. Respecting differences and valuing inclusivity in words and actions
4. Taking a stance of a non-judging attitude towards ourselves and team members
5. Approaching challenges through a solution-focused lens
6. Utilizing a strengths-based approach to interactions with others and their work

Through this approach I believe students can develop the necessary skills for whichever career or educational objective they may have. Opportunities for outreach, research, and teaching are discussed with each student and can be tailored to each student’s interest.