A core assumption in dialectical behavior therapy is that we are all doing the best we can and yet “people need to do better, try harder, and be more motivated for change” (Linehan, 2015). This dialectical perspective summarizes my approach to incorporating diversity, equity, and inclusion into my research, teaching, and mentoring.

I am committed to studying and preventing suicidal thoughts and behaviors and eating disorders among minoritized groups (particularly LGBTQIA+ groups through an intersectional lens), with the goal of reducing suicide and eating disorder inequities. Once I arrive at UO, I am committed to creating partnerships with people with lived experience of suicide and eating disorders, to ensure that the research I’m leading is aligned with the needs of the communities I’m intending to serve.

In my teaching and mentoring, I am committed to participating in and facilitating discussions about privilege, power, and oppression. I am further committed to translating conversations into actions to be better allies.

Diverse perspectives benefit the entire field of psychological science. As such, I believe that the field of psychology as a whole must do better to ensure the training of individuals with identities that have been historically excluded from the field (e.g., BIPOC, LGBTQIA+).

I am committed to always being the best ally I can, and always learning and practicing to be better.

I am a proud mom to two senior pups. They are the loves of my life and a major source of my daily positive emotions. Click on the pictures to learn more about each pup.

I commit to regularly updating this page with students’ pets, because who doesn’t need more pictures of cute animals in their lives?!

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