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Then a position opened at the previously mentioned maximum security facility and was an opportunity I could not resist. I worked at the agency for years until my recent departure. Individuals with criminal charges are committed to the facility as either incompetent to stand trial or in need of evaluation and treatment. Offenses range from urinating in public to murder. The population is a diverse one including those suffering mood, substance abuse, personality, and psychotic disorders . . .  and of course, we had our share of malingerers. My primary role was to conduct competency to stand trial evaluations but other evaluations as well such as comprehensive risk assessments. Testifying in court was also a given. Currently, I am building my private practice and enjoying the flexibility it has to offer.

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I am a clinical and forensic psychologist residing in Nevada. I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Nevada, Reno, and my Ph.D. from Fielding Graduate University.

I recognized my interest in forensic psychology early on and as such is where I geared my education and training. Although I gained experience within community mental health, most of my predoctoral experience was in corrections and at a maximum security forensic facility. Even so, my early career was spent at our state’s community mental health facility where I was involved with crisis intervention, civil commitments, and therapy. I then launched into the world of private practice which entailed primarily conducting evaluations including those referred by attorneys, bariatric, preemployment evals of police recruits, and fitness for duty. I additionally provided therapy and facilitated an occupational substance abuse group.

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I formerly taught virtually which was one of the highlights of my professional career. The intellectual stimulation and enthusiasm that students bring to the table is energizing. My approach to teaching is to foster critical thinking by creating a platform of thoughtful dialogue. Realizing that learning occurs in different modalities, I incorporate various sources of information such as video clips among others.

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My personal life consists of two grown children, two adolescent stepchildren, as well as two dogs. I enjoy several extracurricular activities including exercising, spending time with friends, traveling, and reading. I also enjoy movie viewing . . . though my family would say I prefer to interrupt with multiple questions rather than watch. I particularly enjoy outdoor activities such as ATVing, boating, biking, hiking, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Spectating my stepdaughter’s many soccer tournaments is a personal favorite.