dcpa quarterly newsletter - DC Psychological Association

District of Columbia Psychological Association
July 2016
From the President’s Desk
Stephen Stein, PhD
One of my favorite quotes from Bob Dylan is "Them that are not
being born are busy dying". As an association we have embraced a
dynamic vibrancy with nine active committees, a book club, a mentor
program, and multiple programs designed to promote professional
development. We have also partnered with APA in the recent MidAtlantic Summit and are working with APA to secure Medicaid
privileges for Psychologists. In this spirit I would like to focus upon
three areas in which our association is engaged that may help us meet
the challenges of the future and remain a vibrant, relevant, centered
and valuable field. These areas are 1) Professional Development and
Skill Acquisition, 2) Innovation, and 3) Social Justice.
concept.jpg
Image courtesy of http://oldclayburn.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/community-
1. Professional Development and Skill Acquisition have been the driving force for the creation of the Center for
Learning and Professional Development (CLPD) and the life force of our educational programs. We have developed
and will implement programs and training for Students and Early Career Psychologists (see the following article
about the upcoming course on the Integration of Mind-Body Principles and Clinical Work), and for more advanced
practitioners in Psychotherapy Integration. (A study group focusing on the application of relational therapy
approaches, neural science, and mind-body techniques to the practice of psychotherapy is currently under
development.)
2. Innovation and Expansion: The CLPD is in the process of creating a new committee designed to focus upon the
integration of health care and diverse professional practice areas. It is our hope to provide active and creative models
of practice that address the emerging and changing needs of the community, and also expand the reach of our field
to untapped areas that will benefit from our services. The goal of this Integrated Health Care and Innovative and
Alternative Practice Committee is to embrace a creative and adaptive model of practice that is expansive and can
envision new areas of opportunity and professional exploration.
3. Social Justice: The third area concerns our responsibility to promote Social Justice and the well being of our
community in times of crisis. In times of division, fear, and danger it is my belief that we have an obligation to be a
non-partisan and unbiased voice of reason, groundedness, healing, and hope. (I speak for myself and recognize and
understand that some may see this differently). A recent example of our commitment to bringing psychologists’
knowledge and concern for community to bear on current social issues is the Open Letter on the recent attack in
Orlando, re-published in this newsletter.
We are very fortunate to have people like Doug Favero (Chair of Ethics and Social justice), Samira Paul (Chair
of Diversity and Cultural Competency and the originator of the letter addressing the tragedy in Orlando), Ron
Simpson (Executive Director of the CLPD), and Suzan Stafford (Chair of the Professional Development Oversight
Committee) who have been both an integral and an essential part of our professional development and educational
programs. Perhaps the greatest assets we have with which to meet the challenges of the future are the passion,
dedication, wisdom, and leadership of these talented people.
Stephen R Stein, Ph.D.
President, DCPA
DCPAFinancialSuccess
ByDavidWhite,DCPAExecutiveDirector
You may have heard that membership is the ‘backbone’ of any non-profit association. I would agree with that. A
professional non-profit association is created for the purpose of bringing together “like-minded” individuals and to serve
the needs of those individuals. These individuals pay membership dues and in return, expect some type of benefits and/or
services. Theoretically, the membership dues pay for these services. Sure, many associations like to bring in ‘non-dues’
revenue (mainly CE workshops) for the fact that the more money the association brings in, the lower the dues, or less
frequent the dues increase. But the bottom line is membership and the dues associated with them are paramount in a
successful association.
So I would like to share with you a story about DCPA and their finances. First, let the start be telling you the end of the
story. DCPA is currently in the BEST financial condition in its entire history! Pretty bold statement but a true one.
However, it was not always like this. I was honored to be hired as your executive director in May, 2010. Let me say, the
balance in the checking account when I was hired could not even cover one month of the financial agreement between
DCPA and my association management company! Furthermore, there were unexpected tax liabilities facing the association
and in case you have ever wondered, the IRS has no problem coming to get their money - without asking! To make
matters more interesting, trying to locate a current membership roster at that time was a huge task. Keep in mind, without
a membership list you really have no membership dues, so in essence we were starting from scratch. We pulled together a
list and sent several letters to the psychologists in the area asking them to believe once again in DCPA and the new
leadership, and to join the association. The first year we received less than $5,000 in membership dues; enough to keep us
in business, but not enough to sustain us for the future. As an incentive, joining DCPA meant you could go to several free
CE workshops. Board members volunteered to be workshop presenters, and we ended my first year with DCPA receiving
approximately $17,000 in total revenue*.
As you can imagine, this was a crucial time for DCPA but also a time of building back the trust of the membership. 2011,
year two of my term, showed an increase in dues from less than $5,000 to $16,395!! An increase of over 300%. The Board
continued to implement the same philosophy of providing free CE workshops, but now our members knew that we were a
NEW DCPA and they were anxious to be part of a successful organization. We ended 2011 with over $28,000* in total
revenue and actually started to receive some non-dues revenue. 2012 continued to see growth and we ended the year with
over $8,000 in non-dues revenue and over $31,000 in total revenue. The chart below shows our incredible growth in
membership dues and overall revenue in such a short period of time.
Year
Dues
CE workshops
Overall Revenue
2010
$4,650
2011
$16,395
$1,075
$28,343
2012
$13,592
$8,235
$31,267
2013
$15,258
$10,770
$34,823
2014
$16,375
$7,140
$29,407
2015
$18,465
$7,730
$31,102
2016 (as of 7/30/16)
$18,600
$11,857
N/A
$17,006
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DCPAFinancialSuccessCont.
The byproduct of this continued growth is the overall net worth of DCPA. The chart below shows the net
worth since 2010. As I began my article, I want to reiterate, DCPA is in the BEST financial position it has ever
been in and that is simply because of you, OUR MEMBERS! Thank you for your support and loyalty to
DCPA.
YEAR
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
NET WORTH
$8,142
$23,533
$14,373
$22,264
$27,907
$38,968
Thanks again for allowing me to be part of your winning team. Next issue, I will focus on DCPA membership
and will share membership numbers that I am sure will amaze you.
*APA Support
I want to especially thank the APA Practice Organization for their continued support over all these years.
Each year, APA provides a small grant to sustain the on-going operations of DCPA. Even though these days
we are not dependent on these grants, back in the beginning of our new era, we appreciated the assurance that
they were behind us.
Special thanks goes to Dr. Dan Abrahamson and Suzie Lazaroff for their unwavering support in our ability to
make DCPA one the best SPTA’s in the country.
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The Center for Learning and Professional Development's
Early Career Psychologists Committee and The Mind, Body, & Spirit Institute
with
Drs. Stephen Stein, Ph.D. & Victoria Sylos-Labini, Psy.D.
Present
An Integrated Approach to Mind-Body Principles and Techniques to Improve Clinical Work
This four-week training opportunity is designed for students, beginning practitioners, and those new to direct clinical
practice. The course will introduce an integrative model of treatment focusing on relational psychotherapy, neuroscience,
and mind-body work. A didactic and experiential format will be employed. Through the use of readings, discussion of
clinical cases, and in-vivo demonstrations, we will:
1.
Identify the structure and goals of treatment;
2.
Describe central concepts in attachment theory, object relations theory, and self-psychology that can be employed to
inform mind-body approaches and strengthen the therapeutic relationship;
3.
Teach mind-body techniques to deepen the therapeutic process, focusing on the scientific bases and current
empirical research for these practices;
4.
Practice the acquired skills in the training session and learn to apply them using an integrated model
5.
Learn to co-create a healing narrative using hypnotic inductions and bi-hemispheric communication;
6.
Discuss central concepts in affective and social neuroscience that promote positive outcomes in treatment, such as
empathic attunement, limbic resonance and revision, engaged equanimity, and neural integration; and
7.
Review the ethical considerations and issues of competency when using mind-body techniques.
This workshop will begin on Tuesday, July 19th, 2016 through Tuesday, August 9th, 2016 from 7:15 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
The facilitators will be Dr. Stephen Stein and Dr. Victoria Sylos-Labini. The workshop will be held at 3000 Connecticut
Avenue, NW, Suite 327. This training will be free of charge and open to any interested participants with the limit of 8
participants. This training experience is offered as a service by DCPA’s Center for Learning and Professional
Development and Early Career Psychologists divisions to facilitate the professional development of the mental health
community.
Interested individuals should contact Dr. Stein at 202-745-2556.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Stephen Stein, Ph.D.
Director of Training: Mind, Body, & Spirit Institute
Victoria Sylos-Labini, Psy.D.
Chair, Early Psychologists Committee
More information and online registration: See Events at DCPA Website www.dpa.onefireplace.org; An Integrated
Approach to Mind-Body Principles and Techniques to Improve Your Clinical Work
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Open Letter Concerning Recent Attack upon LGBTQI Community in Orlando
There can be no crime more heinous than one committed against people because of who they love. We are
outraged and saddened by the atrocity at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando. No words can describe the pain we
feel, and the sadness that prevails for this pointless loss of life. The LGBTQI community was celebrating being
in a safe place, a place where people of all sexual orientations – all genders, all races, and all faiths – could share
a moment in time where peace, love, and joy filled the air. This hate crime sought to shatter the love, care and
humility shared in this community. While it took away the lives of 49 souls, it did not shatter their dreams,
because those will be carried in the heart and soul of each of us.
As psychologists we know the joy and completion that love brings to life, and we know the horror and sadness
that comes with its loss. But also, as psychologists who value diversity, we are heartened by the response to this
tragedy that we have seen not only in the community of Orlando, and not only in the LGBTQI community, but
all around the world in ceremonies honoring the victims, from London to Bangkok to Sydney.
Moreover, as psychologists, we have a role to play. Our colleagues in Orlando are gathering with the grieving,
and with the survivors; they are working with the brave first responders to help them cope with the immense
trauma they have faced. But we, too, have a role to play. We cannot sit passively by and observe a distant
tragedy. It is our job each and every day to help to build a community around us that is tolerant, that is
accepting, and, most importantly, which advances the happiness and love of each and every human: it is not
who we love that matters, it is that we love, and are loved.
On behalf of all of our members, the District of Columbia Psychological Association sends our condolences to
the city of Orlando, to the LGBTQI community, and to all of those who have suffered because of their identity
and because they dared to love.
Stephen Stein, Ph.D.
President
Samira Paul, B.Sc.
Chair, Diversity and Cultural Competency Committee
Doug Favero, Ph.D.
Chair, The Ethics and Social Justice Committee
District of Columbia Psychological Association
Photo courtesy of: http://nypost.com/2016/06/14/buildings-across-the-world-light-up-to-remember-orlando/
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The Practice of Psychology: A Field That Is Headed For More Changes
By R. Mallory Starr, Jr.
President-Elect, District of Columbia Psychological Association (DCPA)
The practice of psychology, especially that of clinical psychology in healthcare and related settings, such as
healthcare organizations and in private practice is undergoing many changes. These changes, though, may not
be so great for those practitioners who are in independent practice and not reliant on insurance or other third
party payers. For those practitioners who are salaried or are in private practice, and are part of insurance
company plan-payment systems the changes coming will be the greatest. The field could be characterized as
one of turbulence and transformation. The transformation is predicted to be a shift from the practice of
psychology to the business of psychology.
A major cause of the coming changes is technology –
computerization of testing, electronic record keeping, reporting, and
practice management technology and systems. To be in private
practice, and even in salaried positions, an office setup is an
expensive operation that includes computers, reporting on special
forms, and compliance with complex third party payers and
governmental regulations. This will require what is called a back
office operation, which includes staff for billing functions and
compliance reports. Also there could be requirements for marketing
and public relations, described as front office, or external systems.
There may also develop for many practitioners the need to diversify
their practices from clinical work, such as therapy and psychological
evaluations, to consulting and diversification into executive
coaching. This shift to consulting and executive coaching could
mean the billable hour is a thing of the past. In addition there may
be the burden of outcome assessments and contingency payment
systems, which concretely could mean payment for outcomes.
The development of corporate organizations in which psychologists may share ownership is another direction
of change, and could mean practitioners will be shifting from practice to management and executive roles. A
further change that is becoming more and more apparent is the influence of technology on the delivery of
psychological services via SKYPE-type systems to clients or patients in the US and internationally. The
diversity of populations served is rapidly increasing. Professional psychologists will become highly mobile,
globally connected, and integrated with other professionals and other disciplines.
Future articles for the DCPA Newsletter will focus on what it takes to make needed shifts in order to cope
and do well as the field of psychology changes. These will include articles on marketing and practice
development, phases of practice development, trends in practice innovations, career progression, diversity
issues, and integration.
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Bullying: A Year-Round Problem
Tips to Help Parents and Adults Address Bullying
Margaret Talbot; Allie Bond; Andrea Calderon; Matthew Allen;
Christine Leonhardt; Christine Yu; Stephen Bowles, Ph.D.
Washington, DC, July 2016 − “Parents, school staff, and other adults
in the community can help kids prevent bullying by talking
about it, building a safe school environment, and creating a community-wide bullying prevention strategy” (Retrieved from
www.StopBullying.gov, June 27, 2016).
According to the Department of Health and Human Services (2014), one in four to one in three children experience bullying. Parents
often worry about bullying at school, but the American Camp Association emphasizes that it also occurs at summer camps, making
bullying a year-round issue (http://www.acacamps.org/resource-library/bullying-prevention-camps-take-stand, accessed 2016).
Regardless of the time or location, the APA Resolution on Bullying Among Children and Youth reported past findings that victims of
bullying may have long-term psychological effects, including diminished self-esteem, higher rates of depression and anxiety, feelings of
loneliness, suicidal ideation, and higher rates of school absenteeism ” (retrieved from www.apa.org/about/policy/bullying.pdf, June
27, 2016).
Early intervention for both the victims and aggressors can reduce the effects of bullying. Furthermore, it can also prevent bullying in
teenagers and college students. Some adults may be surprised that bullying has also occurred in college, but over half of college bullies
were also bullies in both elementary and high school. Similarly, about three quarters of those bullied in college were also bullied in
elementary and high school (Chapell et al., 2006).
Recently, the District of Columbia has enacted legislation to address bullying. An example is the Youth Bullying Prevention Act of
2012, which resulted in the development of a bullying prevention protocol for all District-funded programs throughout the year. The
District-Wide Model Bullying Prevention Policy puts forth recommendations to eliminate bullying in all public domains. Although
many believe that bullying only happens in schools, parents must be reminded that bullying can occur in any social interaction.
Suzanne Greenfield, Director of the Citywide Youth Bullying Prevention Program, highlights the importance of recognizing the
warning signs and effects of bullying. She emphasizes, “Prevention is prevention is prevention, and we should be thinking in these
terms all year-round to keep kids safe.”
Below are recommendations to prevent and manage bullying:
Don’t Overreact
The first piece of advice Greenfield gives parents of children who have reported bullying is to breathe and thank their children for
telling them. Taking these steps will help prevent parents from overreacting and may also help children feel more comfortable when
reporting instances of bullying. “One of the reasons they [children] don’t tell us is that as parents, we overreact… Let’s not overreact,
let’s figure this one out.” Calm discussion can positively reinforce their seeking of support from others in times of stress, which is vital
for emotional well-being.
Facilitate Friendships
Some children find it more difficult to make friends than others do; it is important that adults help them connect with others who
share similar interests, allowing them to socially develop alongside their peers. Facilitating relationships among children helps create
atmospheres where bullying will less likely occur.
Focus on the Aggressor
Some adults focus solely on the victim’s behavior; however, adults should also take steps to understand and address the core reasons
behind the bully’s actions. Adults can do this by providing positive reinforcement to the bully when he or she engages in appropriate
social behavior. This intervention decreases the chances of future aggressive behavior and increases long-term positive behavior.
It’s Okay to Not Know
Parents and other adults should not be discouraged if they are not well-versed in stopping bullying. Many resources that address
bullying are available—they detail future implications and provide clear, actionable steps to take when a child is faced with bullying.
Useful information can be found at www.stopbullying.gov, a site that advises parents on ways to address a bullying concern with their
school. Another useful website is www.ohr.dc.gov/page/bullyingprevention, which contains information on policies related to
bullying, contact information for adults who work with children, and information for previous victims of bullying. The website
www.apa.org/about/gr/issues/cyf/bullying-school-climate.aspx explains some side effects of bullying, how it can be prevented, and
provides a list of references.
Additionally, http://www.acacamps.org/resource-library/articles/bullying-prevention-are-you-speed discusses the varying types of
bullying, and examples of preventing bullying at summer camps. All of these websites were verified on June 27, 2016.
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DCPA Co-Sponsors Multi-State Summit with
APA Practice Organization
On May 20, 2016, The District of Columbia Psychological Association Center for Learning and Professional
Development and the APA Practice Organization co-sponsored the presentation of The Healthcare Summit on
Alternative Practice Models and Integrated Care at the Capitol View Conference Center in Washington, DC.
Psychologists from around the mid-Atlantic and the District of Columbia gathered to hear from a number of
experts about innovative ways for clinicians to deliver psychological services in our rapidly evolving healthcare
environment. DCPA President Stephen Stein, PhD, and Ronald W. Simpson, MA, Executive Director of
DCPA’s Center for Learning and Professional Development delivered introductory remarks.
Presenters and panelists included Katherine C. Nordal, PhD, Executive Director of the APA Practice
Organization, insurance company executives, healthcare attorneys, practicing clinicians, and psychologist-CEOs,
founders, and directors of diverse practice organizations. Participants were informed about recent shifts in
thinking in the healthcare field, where growing recognition that psychological interventions both improve and
reduce the costs of patient care has led to increased collaboration between insurers and psychologists. Other
topics addressed included the various structures and benefits of new practice models such as MSO’s, and the
integration of behavioral health with primary care by co-location of practices, and through the establishment of
multidisciplinary practice organizations. At the end of the day, presenters and participants were able to meet and
continue discussion at a networking reception.
DCPA President Stephen Stein, PhD
Katherine C. Nordal, APA Practice Organization
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CONGRATULATIONS TO DR. JOHN D. ROBINSON
DCPA Member, Researcher, Practitioner, and Professor of Surgery and Psychiatry at Howard University
College of Medicine
John D. Robinson, EdD, ABPP
Named 2016 Alfred M. Wellner Lifetime Achievement Award Winner
June 23, 2016 (Washington, D.C.) – At the National Register’s spring
meeting, the Board of Directors voted to present the 2016 Alfred M.
Wellner, PhD, Lifetime Achievement Award to John D. Robinson,
EdD, ABPP.
The award, named after the first Executive Officer, Alfred M.
Wellner, PhD, is the highest honor bestowed on a Registrant by the
National Register to commemorate numerous and significant
contributions to psychology during a distinguished career.
Upon receipt of the award, Dr. Robinson said, “It is truly an honor to
have been selected for the 2016 Alfred M. Wellner Lifetime
Achievement Award for significant contributions to the field of
psychology. I have been a Registrant since 1976 and had the
opportunity to work personally with Dr. Wellner. My greatest
pleasure is to know that the Register views my career as being a
distinguished one. I hope I have made an impact not only on the
profession, but also on other psychologists, especially our early career
colleagues. Thank you very much for this honor.”
Dr. Robinson has received many awards during his career, most recently including the APA Division 17 Elder
Recognition Award for Distinguished Contributions and that APA Division 38 Nathan Perry Award for
Distinguished Service and Contributions. He has also contributed numerous publications and professional
presentations to the psychology community.
The nomination letters submitted by Drs. Ron Rozensky and Rick Seime referenced that Dr. Robinson "has
been recognized with numerous awards and honors. These awards are for outstanding contributions in teaching
and mentorship, distinguished contributions to the profession, distinguished service and contributions to
diversity, and distinguished contributions to clinical psychology and clinical health psychology" and "The next
generation of psychologists, actually several next generations, have been impacted by Dr. Robinson's teaching
and mentoring. Our field, and society, will be better for his dedication to education and training and the future
of psychology."
Dr. Robinson has been credentialed by the National Register since 1976.
This announcement will also be featured in the National Register's Fall 2016 issue of The Register Report.
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Parmis Khosravi To Receive
DCPA 2016 Student Grant Research Award
Congratulations to Parmis Khosravi, DCPA Student Member and graduate student at Catholic University
on being selected to receive the 2016 Student Grant Research Award for innovative psychological science
research. Dr. Jean Gearon and Dr. Karen Shanor noted in presenting the award that there were numerous
applications for the grant that were of high quality, representing many psychology graduate programs
throughout the DC metropolitan area. Ms. Khosravi’s research was found to be “very innovative, relevant,
and well-designed”. She will receive a check from DCPA for $1,000 to help fund her research.
Ms. Khosravi provided the following summary of her proposed research:
The Effects of Current Mood on Attention and Conflict Processing During a Cognitive Task
Using Stimuli with Task-Irrelevant Emotional Valence
In this study, we will investigate the effect of current mood on attention and conflict processing during a
cognitive task with task-irrelevant emotional information. To our knowledge, this will be the first study to
examine this relationship. Previous studies have examined the influence of emotionally-valenced stimuli on
conflict processing in relationship to executive attention, but without considering the role of current mood.
However, research indicates that mood influences emotion processing, and thus mood is likely to play an
important role in the interaction of emotion, attention, and conflict processing. The proposed project also
will help clarify the discrepancies between the prior studies. In addition, the proposed study will be the first
to conduct this research in a group of American college-aged adults using English words, and thus will
shed light on potential influences of culture and/or language. Perhaps most importantly, the measurement
of current mood and the role it plays in attention and conflict processing is a significant addition to the field.
The results of this study will inform our understanding of the interaction between emotion and cognition,
and may have implications for research on individuals with mood disorders.
photo courtesy of: http://venasolutions.com/blog/2015/12/improve-quality-filings-better-research/
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NOMINATIONS FOR CHAIR OF NEW COMMITTEE WANTED
The Board of Directors and the DCPA Center for Learning & Professional Development is excited to
announce the creation of a new Committee/Division...
Integrated Healthcare & Innovative Practices
This committee will focus on creative modalities designed to promote integration in the area of healthcare and
other diverse professions as well as healthcare changes psychologists can expect to unfold in the next 3 to 5
years. At this time we are asking for self-nominations from the membership to Chair this committee. Please
send your CV and a short letter indicating your interest and why you might be a good fit to lead this committee
to Ron Simpson at rws2480@ego.thechicagoschool.edu.
Thank you for your continued membership and support.
DCPA BOOK CLUB
Add 3 Powerful Books to your Summer Reading…and join DCPA members in the fall to discuss:
Sept. 22 -- The Sleep Revolution: Transforming Your Life One Night at a Time by Arianna Huffington
The first question we are asking our new patients these days has to do with the quality of their
sleep, as research tells us that every mental disorder is associated with inadequate sleep.
Oct. 27 -- The Road to Character by David Brooks
Blending psychology, politics, and spirituality, this book provides an opportunity for us to
rethink our priorities and strive to build richer inner lives marked by humility and moral depth.
Nov. 10 -- Man’s Search For Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
This revised and enlarged edition includes an Introduction to Frankl’s Logotherapy and
discussion of “paradoxical intention.”
Watch for more information regarding Place and Time on the DCPA listserv and the DCPA Website!
ECP SOCIAL
The Early Career Psychologists Committee would like to thank everyone who attended the ECP Summer Social on
Friday, July 15, 2016! Thank you for helping to make the event a success!
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Image courtesy of: http://www.americanbar.org/content/aba/groups/delivery_legal_services/news_announcements/_jcr_content/featureModule/image_0.img.jpg/1438812966521.jpg
The following article is one in a series focused on Innovative Approaches to Practice Diversification. This
series seeks to present new ways to expand and diversify one’s practice by serving additional populations,
creatively developing the use of technology, and/or offering other-than-therapeutic services, perhaps in a variety
of settings outside of the practitioner’s office.
Expanding and Sharing Our Psychological Skills to Educate and Empower the Public
Partnering with Retail Establishments
By
Diane Kern, Ph.D.
Licensed Psychologist (D.C. and Maryland)
Creator of “Happy and Healthy U” Mental Wellness Workshops
“Thinking outside the box” is a theme that many psychologists may be focusing on for a variety of reasons. Such
thinking may be engaged in more by those who are self-employed and wish to diversify their work into new areas.
There is a theory that holds that if one person is thinking, planning, and starting to innovate then probably
thousands more are engaged in the same theme.
As an independent practitioner, my conventional psychotherapy practice of nearly 20 years has served as the
foundation of my income. However, my professional interests are increasingly evolving away from clinical
treatment to holistic, wellness and preventive approaches to mental health. As a result, I have developed my own
brand of mental wellness workshops and presentations, entitled “Happy and Healthy U”. The proverbial letter
“U” in the title represents the shorthand version of “you”, representing one’s self-empowerment in this arena,
and the symbolic “U”, associated with institutions of higher learning.
Psychological concepts and research related to Positive Psychology, Emotional Intelligence, and Mindfulness
have provided the bases for my philosophical shift. These approaches all recognize and embrace the significance
of our attitude in influencing mental and emotional states. In particular, there is significant empirical evidence
emanating from Positive Psychology that by employing and utilizing optimism, we can enhance our happiness
and life satisfaction. Furthermore, both Positive Psychology and Mindfulness-related research have demonstrated
that by reducing stress, we can increase our mental, emotional and physical well-being. The Emotional
Intelligence theory and research support the impact of our being intentional, self-aware and proactive upon
feeling in control of the management of our emotions and interpersonal interactions.
My most recent wellness practice foray has been my acceptance of invitations to partner with retail
establishments as hosts of my workshops and presentations. Ethically, these partnerships have not required me
to endorse the particular store, its brand or its merchandise. I have been very careful to clearly communicate my
unwillingness to promote the stores. My public advertisement of such events has been limited to stating the store
as the location, and to the description of presentations that the store might provide.
My experiences have ranged from small local restaurants (some that also serve as nightclubs) to the more
nationally known, upscale retail store, Lord & Taylor. For example, at a local Lord & Taylor store, my
collaboration with the personal stylist, who coordinates their outreach events, has resulted in professional
connections and opportunities. The model the store representative and I have adopted has typically included a
wellness presentation, combined with a showcase of fashions from the store and a makeup or skin care
demonstration. My portion of these events has ranged from presenting or facilitating workshops alone to
partnering with allied professionals, such as a dating coach and a Tai Chi instructor.
The topical nature and timing of the wellness workshops have been deliberate and designed to coincide with the
retail seasons. For instance, the wellness workshops have addressed managing holiday stress (during the
Christmas holiday season), exercising healthy self-love and self-confidence in romantic relationships (preValentine’s Day), and taking good care of oneself with healthy attitudes and the utilization of mind/body stress
reduction techniques (pre–Mother’s Day). Currently, I am in the process of organizing a workshop for the same
store, which will focus on women feeling confident and competent in their careers (pre–Labor Day).
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My collaborative partnerships have been beneficial for all parties. Of course, for stores, such events bring in
potential customers. At the very least, such relatively novel events attract persons who have had the opportunity
to see the store’s merchandise and service offerings. The goodwill extended by the store in the form of free allday parking and discount coupons for shopping serves as an incentive to shop.
The benefit for me has included the expansion of my potential contacts database for future workshops and
presentations. Also, such relationships have provided my wellness practice with increased exposure, particularly
because it is a well-regarded store of national prominence. Additionally, the positive feedback from the
attendees and the store management further enhances my professional resume and credibility and has been a
source of positive testimonials.
Last, but certainly not least, is the apparent benefit to the attendees of such events. Their feedback has been
overwhelmingly positive and appreciative. Such events have been generally described as enjoyable and
informative. With respect to my wellness workshops during these events, I have received consistent confirmation
that they have been valuable and therefore worthwhile.
Hopefully, this example will help lend confirmation to other psychologists, who are doing similar professional
activities. There is a need for additional articles that document the innovative ways psychologists are employing
to diversify their practices. Such work and related literature serve to further validate the usefulness and breadth
of our professional skills.
For more information about this article Dr. Diane Kern may be e-mailed at: Dr.dianekern@yahoo.com.
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Announcements and Classifieds
COURSE INSTRUCTOR WANTED
We are looking for a qualified instructor to teach the course below Spring 2017 semester at the DC Campus of The Chicago School
of Professional Psychology. The ideal candidate will have a degree, research, and/or training in this area. The day and time are
somewhat flexible, and the course will meet once a week for 1 hour and 50 minutes. Kindly forward and share with your
networks. Thank you.
PY 481D - Introduction to Clinical Psychopharmacology
Prerequisite(s): PY 449D. This course involves studying the effects of pharmacological agents on behavior, emotion, and cognition.
The goal of this course is to provide a background in contemporary theory and practice of psychopharmacology so that by the end,
students understand the nature of medication treatment and the rationale for treatment selection. Effects of age, gender, ethnicity,
and racial/genetic characteristics on the efficacy and safety of medications are discussed. (2 credits)
Michael Y. Lau, Ph.D.
Associate Department Chair
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
901 15th Street NW, Suite 2G02
Washington, DC 20005
Email: mlau@thechicagoschool.edu
Tel: (202) 706-5008
Fax: (202) 706-5199
Seeking psychologists for Child therapy/assessment and
for adolescent/adult DBT
The Wake Kendall Group is seeking a clinician with training and experience working with children and adolescents in
cognitive-behavioral and play therapy. Experience and interest in assessments desirable. We are also seeking a trained
DBT therapist to work with adolescents and adults. We prefer licensed clinicians but would consider a psychologist
who is not yet licensed but has exceptional experience. Email CV with references and cover
SAVE THE DATE! Friday, September 30, 2016
You are the Instrument: The Role of Conscious Travel in Deepening Awareness of Self, Other and the
Collective
In September of 2012, Marilee Aronson embarked upon a 10-month Off the Grid adventure primarily in Africa and
India. In this workshop, she will share highlights from her journey through image, sound, video and story. She will
describe cultural themes spanning her time in Africa and India, and explore with participants how these themes relate
to aspects of life in the United States. While this presentation parallels many themes in the diversity and worldview
literature, it explores them in embodied and accessible ways -- since true cultural competence often comes more from
an experience of the heart than of the mind. This presentation also describes the power of extended and immersive
travel to hone ourselves as therapeutic instruments and to evolve personally, professionally and collectively. Six CE
credits will be offered in the area of Diversity.
Bread for the City
Bread for the City, a medical and social service center that provides care for the poor and homeless in DC, has seen
an increase in the need for Asylum Evaluations. If you have experience in doing psychological evaluations, and would
be willing to be on a list of providers who could offer an occasional pro bono evaluation for a person seeking asylum in
the United States, please contact Jeffrey Jay PhD at jeffjayphd@aol.com, or call him at 202 362-0063.
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Announcements and Classifieds
Beautiful Office for Rent (NW DC)
Conveniently located office space for rent from 1 to 2 days per week. The office is comfortably furnished with large
windows that provide lots of natural light and a good view. It is in a suite with three psychotherapist offices, a spacious
nicely furnished waiting room and a kitchenette with a fridge and microwave. The suite was renovated last summer so
it is clean and well maintained. The rent includes WiFi, all utilities, daily cleaning, and access to a printer/copier/fax. It
is in a fabulously convenient Downtown/ K St location on the same block as Farragut North (red line & one stop from
DuPont Circle) and across the square from Farragut West (blue & orange lines and one stop from Foggy
Bottom/GWU). Please contact Nicole Engel for more information @ DrNicoleEngel@gmail.com or 202-5536664.
PSYCHIATRIST/PSYCHOTHERAPIST OFFICE FOR RENT
Comfortable, convenient, collegial office for rent within a suite of mental health professionals [full or part time] in a
beautiful, quiet setting a three-minute walk from Tenleytown metro. Possible ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT a real
plus for prescribing clinicians. Garage and street parking. Please contact Phil Seibel, MD via Barbara at 202-6861870.
Psychotherapy Office to Rent
Cleveland Park, DC
Great Location!
Quiet, Spacious office in a two-office suite
3000 Connecticut Avenue, NW -- located directly across from the Zoo -- is home to a great community of
multidisciplinary therapists. It is walking distance from shops and restaurants, accessible from two stops on the red line
and offers monthly parking. Suite includes a waiting room, bathroom, water cooler and utility room with microwave
and fridge. The office to rent has a walk-in closet and large windows which face a tree, NOT Connecticut Avenue.
Contact Dr. Ann Reifman at areifman@aol.com or 202-234-9011
Office Space Wanted
Downtown DC vicinity of Farragut Square for 1-2 days per week, preferably Thursday, 2nd day flexible.
Please reply by email to lindapsmith@yahoo.com.
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2016 DCPA Board of Directors
President
Stephen Stein, PhD
s613s@aol.com
Member-at-Large: Academic
Karen Shanor, PhD
drkarenshanor@gmail.com
President-Elect
R. Mallory Starr, PhD
mstarr703@comcast.net
Member-at-Large: Public Sector
Larry Sank, PhD
lawrencesank@yahoo.com
Past-President
Anthony Jimenez, PhD
dr.aajimenez@gmail.com
Member-at-Large: Organizational
Stephen Bowles, PhD, ABPP
lifewellbeing@gmail.com
Treasurer
Noah Collins, PhD
nmc2001@#umd.edu
Member-at-Large: Student Representative
Alix Mansbach, MA
dcpa.students@gmail.com
Secretary
Heather Sheets, PsyD
HeatherSheets@thechicagoschool.edu
APA Council Member
Walter Hillabrant, PhD
WHillabrant@ssinar.com
Vice President, Operations
Jean Gearon, PhD
jean.gearon@gmail.com
Director, Communications & Marketing
Ronald Simpson, B.Sc.
rws2480@ego.thechicagoschool.edu
Vice President, Professional Affairs
Giselle Hass, PsyD
giselle.hass@gmail.com
Social Work Liaison
Dorothy Vandam
vandam@cua.edu
Vice President, Membership
Linda Smith, PhD
lindapsmith@yahoo.com
Vice President, Community Affairs
David Freeman, PsyD
Dfreeman@ccdc1.com
Member-at-Large: Clinical
Suzan Stafford, EdD
suzanms@verizon.net
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