FSU School Psychology

Our intern spotlight this week is Emily Paul! Emily is completing her internship in Collier County, Florida. Here is what she has to say about her experience so far:

What do you like most about internship?

"The best part about internship is being surrounded by littles all day! Being assigned to two elementary schools, there’s never a dull moment. Though I enjoy all the testing and counseling I get to do, it’s the little things that make my day- like handing out stickers in the morning or catching up with students during lunch. It’s so much fun getting to interact with them."

How did the FSU M.S./Ed.S. School Psychology program prepare you for internship?

"Our practicum experience was truly the best! The exposure I got from working on cases at the MDC and out in the school district definitely prepared me for internship. Thanks to my supervisor, Dr. Bennett, I had the opportunity to work with students of various backgrounds, ages, and needs. Because of all the practice I had with report writing, evaluations, observations, and counseling, I had no problem adjusting to my role as an intern."

What advice do you have for current students?

"My advice would be to soak everything in. All of the stuff that you’re learning now will be so beneficial to you when you’re on internship! I know that this may be a stressful time for the second-year students, but just trust the process! You guys are far more knowledgeable than you think. Just take it one day at a time and enjoy these last two semesters you have left with each other."

Thank you, Emily, for your hard work!

One of our faculty, Dr. Lyndsay Jenkins, is recruiting middle school students who have experienced bullying to be part of an 8 week intervention project. They can receive $100 for participating! For more information or to enroll, visit https://bit.ly/3r9xO4t.

We are so proud of our department chair, Dr. Alysia Roehrig! 😍

FSU psychologist elected as a fellow in prestigious American Psychological Association - Florida State University News Professor of Educational Psychology Alysia Roehrig has been named a fellow of the American Psychological Association, the leading scientific and professional organization representing psychology in the United States.

Our intern spotlight this week is Laura Collazos! Laura is completing her internship in Columbia, South Carolina. Here is what she has to say about her experience so far:

What do you like most about internship?

"The impact I have on children and families is huge. I appreciate being a helpful member of staff at the schools I work with and making connections that are both productive and lead to wonderful memories. I love learning as a student but simultaneously realize how much I know and am able to put into practice."

How did the FSU M.S./Ed.S. School Psychology program prepare you for internship?

"I think a major factor was participating in a class I was passionate about and making connections with my peers when I needed help. The practicum experience helped to put everything into practice and helped with my report writing skills."

What advice do you have for current students?

"If you feel lost or confused at this point in time, don’t be scared because, during your internship year, everything will come together, and with practice, you will realize how much you know. Also, ensure that you choose a placement where you feel like you will thrive and somewhere you envision yourself living. Be confident in your abilities, read the latest research in school psychology, and ask plenty of questions!"

Our intern spotlight this week is Marissa Feldman! Marissa is completing her internship in Hillsborough County in Tampa, FL. Here is what she has to say about her experience:

What do you like most about internship?

"I love being hands-on with the kids and working with different populations of students! There are many different needs out there and I like being able to learn something new every day to help how I can. I've also attended several trainings my district had to offer and learned so much from them all! I've loved all the opportunities I've been given to grow here."

How did the FSU M.S./Ed.S. School Psychology program prepare you for internship?

"The FSU M.S./Ed.S. School Psychology program prepared me for my internship by giving me a well-rounded experience. Whether it was learning about diverse populations and assessment instruments, practicing counseling techniques, or learning to communicate effectively with parents and teachers, I feel that FSU has given me the tools to me more confident in the field."

What advice do you have for current students?

"Always ask questions if you are unsure about something and don't be afraid to advocate for yourself! It's a learning process and you'll grow with time. Self-care and learning about your personal boundaries will also be important. Make sure to take care of yourselves everyone. (:"

Read below to participate in an opportunity to support research:

Dr. Greg Hajcak with the FSU School Psychology is seeking anxious and non-anxious kids between 9-12 years old.

The study involves a single lab visit (1-4 hours), including an interview and non-invasive measurement of your child’s brain activity during a computer game and a balance task. Some sessions will also include a 45-minute video presentation.

Compensation and transportation options may be available. Please contact [email protected] or call 850-273-8268 for more information.

Attention Florida folks: The FSU Human Services Center is offering free counseling services to individuals residing in Florida!

Our intern spotlight this week is Courtney Queen! Courtney's internship site is located in Austin, TX. Here is what she has to say about her experience on internship!

What do you like most about internship?

"I love being able to have actual hands-on experience and put into practice everything I have learned in the past two years! Plus, I love hanging out with the kids because they never fail to put a smile on my face."

How did the FSU M.S./Ed.S. School Psychology program prepare you for internship?

"Our practicum experience was so beneficial. I feel like I was more than prepared going into internship with all of the assessment practice and report writing we did. Plus, I am so grateful for the addition of the counseling practicum last year, as I would have been so lost in how to provide counseling otherwise."

What has been the biggest adjustment for you since starting internship?

"Navigating parents and meetings! There has been a big learning curve on how to conduct all the different meetings we have and how to describe to parents everything that is involved in Special Education Assessment. I am so grateful for my supervisor though in showing me the ropes and helping me feel confident in everything that I do!"

Our intern spotlight this week is Katherine Stief! Katherine's internship site is located in Skokie, IL. Check out what she has to say about her internship experience!

What do you like most about internship?

"I get to work with high school students and be on a team (and in the same hallway) with 4 other school psychs and 2 school psych interns that I can collaborate with at any time of day."

How did the FSU M.S./Ed.S. School Psychology program prepare you for internship?

"The FSU School Psychology program has prepared me for internship by giving me all of the tools I would need to thrive when thrown into the "real world". At FSU we learned about many of the difficulties that we would face as school pscyhs, which has made me feel more prepared while actually dealing with them."

What have you learned while on internship?

"Before this year I had never worked in a High School, so this is a completely new experience. I have found a passion for this age group and am learning new things daily about how to best work with teenagers."

This fall we have a new group of student interns and it is time to kick off our intern spotlights! Our first intern spotlight is Gabriela Torres. Gabriela is completing her internship in Palm Beach County, FL. Here is what she has to say about her internship experience so far:

What do you like most about internship?

"Well, #1 I enjoy the children! Sometimes you get random hugs, and the kids fill up your heart. Beyond that, I really like being able to apply concepts from my training to their lives. Our professors always told us they were giving us pieces of a puzzle, and through this internship, I get to see the puzzle come together. It is satisfying to use the knowledge I have to problem solve with my School Based Team and make a student's learning environment a better place for them to thrive."

How did the FSU M.S./Ed.S. School Psychology program prepare you for internship?

"The FSU program exposes you to SO MUCH information. If you have never done something, you have at least heard of it. This makes so many concepts I learned during internship easier to grasp and complete. I feel satisfied with the program at FSU, and am proud to be a NOLE!"

What do you do in your free time?

"Honestly, it ranges. When I can handle more screen time, I may watch movies with my boyfriend and dog or play animal crossing on my switch. When screen time is too much, I try to read books related to school psychology or books for fun. I also love all kinds of games and puzzles and have a growing collection. I am also new to this county so exploring new places is a MUST right now."

The fall semester is off to a great start! We would like to introduce our current first and second-year students! We are looking forward to yet another exciting semester!

We cannot wait to be in Boston! Here is a presentation we look forward to by Madison Woodall and Sophia Putzeys! We love you guys and love to see you doing incredible things!

Presenters: Madison Woodall and Sophia Putzeys. A special shoutout to Sonya, Heather, and Dr. Jenkins who were a huge part of the research and creation of the poster.

Research Focus: “Childhood trauma and peer victimization”

Sneak Peek: “This study aimed to demonstrate that peer victimization should be considered an adverse childhood experience due to the significant overlap in definition, measurement, and outcomes between trauma and peer victimization. The current study assessed the degree to which peer victimization negatively impacts the individual in childhood compared to other adverse life events. Additionally, we evaluated if trauma exacerbates the association between past peer victimization and current distress. Descriptive statistics and multiple-group path analysis were performed to analyze the data collected through retrospective surveys. We are excited to share the results of this study with colleagues because of the implications it could have on future teacher trainings and how mental health clinicians can best support individuals who have experienced peer victimization.”

When/where: Wednesday, February 16 from 1:00 to 2:30 at Boston, MA; Hynes Convention Center

Dr. Jenkins, one of the school psychology faculty, is the Director of Seminoles ASPIRE. The program provides free mental health services to K-12 students at Florida State University Schools.

We are so fortunate to partner with FSU for Seminoles ASPIRE (Alliance for Supporting Positive-growth & Inspiring Resilience in Education)!

Thank you for contributing to our school community to increase the mental health of our students. 🧠

We are back with another NASP presentation sneak peek! We are excited about this presentation by Dr. Krach, some of our lovely Noles, and a collaborator from UNLV!

Presenters: S. Kathleen Krach (FSU), Michael McCreery (UNLV), Malaya Monk (FSU), Jessica Bagneris (FSU)

Research Focus: “I head the Technology Intervention and Assessment in Schools research lab. The lab’s research focuses on the development of culturally appropriate, technology-based, psychological assessments and interventions.”

Sneak Peek: “You Can Lead the Teacher to the Intervention, But You Can’t Make Them Use it: Investigating Fidelity (Poster on Teacher Intervention Fidelity)”

When/Where: 2/17/2022 (9:30AM) at Boston, MA; Hynes Convention Center

Our Why FSU spotlight this week is Charlisse Navarro-Sanabria! Charlisse is in her first year in our M.S./Ed.S program and is from Kissimmee, FL!

Why did you choose FSU?

“I attended FSU during undergrad and had the opportunity to do research under Dr. Jenkins during my senior year. I was fortunate enough to get experience in the world of FSU's school psychology program. It just made sense to go to FSU's program as it covered counseling and was NASP approved. It's my first year, and I am so thankful for all the knowledge and experiences I have attained and am eager to get more into the field.”

What do you like to do on your free time?

“Whenever I'm not in class, you can find me at the gym or walking around Tallahassee. I'm also a very big fan of cafes and love to study there! When I have time to relax, I love to watch anime, listen to Bad Bunny and/or spend time with my friends!”

13 days left until the NASP Conference! This year at NASP, Malaya Monk, Ed.S., will be presenting with Kathleen Krach, Ph.D., Michael McCreery, Ph.D., Danielle L Head, M.Ed., and Sam Leif, MLIS. Here is what you should know about their presentation:

Research Interest/Focus: “Aggressive behavior”

Sneak Peek: “This presentation examines the role that general intellectual ability (‘g’) and executive functioning (EF) have in different functions of aggression. Specifically, the study examines Reactive Aggression (RA) and Proactive Aggression (PA). Analyses will examine the effects of ‘g’ on the prediction of EF skills on both RA and PA in a SIP model. Findings from this study may help in the development of differentiated aggression interventions.”

When/Where: Wednesday, February 16 from 1:00 to 2:30pm in Exhibit Hall C/D

We have 17 days left until the NASP Conference and we are so excited to see our very own Rachel Joyner presenting her poster on Reading disabilities! Rachel Joyner will be presenting with collaborators at the University of Memphis on the following:

Research Interest/ Focus: “Reading disabilities as they relate to reading skills (comprehension, phonological awareness, etc.)”

Sneak Peek: “When students read a story and are told "tell me everything you can about what you just read", it may be harder for students with dyslexia to accurately show what they learned or remembered from the story. My project investigates the validity of two reading retell coding procedures in elementary school students with dyslexia to determine which method most accurately estimates student ability. I'm excited for this project because it allows us to advocate for the use of appropriate measures when assessing students with dyslexia so that we can minimize bias.”

When/Where: Poster Session 6 on Thursday (February 17th) at 1:30pm

This week's Why FSU spotlight is Sara Dworak. Sara is in her first year in our M.S./Ed.S program and is from Huntersville, NC!

Why did you choose FSU?

“Having attended FSU for my undergraduate degree, I knew that Florida State was a great school with a welcoming nature. I fell in love with FSU all over again during Interview Day, and I was amazed by the opportunities the School Psychology program offered. FSU's program includes such a diverse set of classes and practicum, and I am so fortunate to be able to be involved in this program! Go Noles!”

What do you like to do in your free time?

“I love hiking and finding trails around Tallahassee! I am a big fan of true crime podcasts and documentaries. I also love hanging out with friends and watching movies/having a game night!”

We are less than a month away from the annual National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) conference in Boston, MA. Here's one of the great presentations you can look forward to by our very own Dr. Krach!

Presenter: S. Kathleen Krach, Ph.D., NCSP

Research Interest/Focus: "My scholarly activities focus on the use of game-based technology to analyze and develop culturally sensitive assessments and interventions. These assessments and interventions relate to social, emotional, and behavioral skills with a particular focus on functions of aggression."

Sneak Peek: "The presentation is a Practitioner Conversation: Can Computers Replace School Psychologists: An Analysis of Tech-Based Tools. We will be discussing the different aspects of technology and AI as regards to how tech will (and will not) be able to mimic and/or do different aspects of our work. We will discuss assessment, consultation, and counseling as relates to tech-based tools. There will be a short presentation at the beginning of the discussion, and the rest will be a conversation about the topic."

When: 2/15/2022 at 1PM
Location: Hynes Convention Center
Level/Room: Level 1 Room 110

This week's Why FSU spotlight is Sami Lev. She is in her first year in our M.S./Ed.S program and is from Coral Springs, FL!

Why did you choose FSU?

“Having graduated from FSU just last year, I was exhilarated when I received my acceptance to the School Psychology program. Returning to Tallahassee after a year of teaching English abroad, I felt comfort in knowing that I was moving back to the city I'm extremely familiar with. Knowledgeable of the program's success and how fantastic FSU's faculty is, I knew this was the program for me.”

What do you like to do on your free time?

“When I'm not working or in class, I love tap dancing, practicing yoga, testing out new recipes, listening to true crime podcasts, watching sunsets, and of course, spending time with friends.”

This week's Why FSU spotlight is Madison Culligan. Madison is in her first year in our M.S./Ed.S program and is from Sarasota, FL!

Why did you choose FSU?

“I was sold on our School Psychology program ever since I learned about it in my second year of undergrad. I spent time looking into other schools, but in the back of my mind, I knew I was going to end up a double ‘nole! My favorite thing about our program is the sense of community. Everyone just wants to see each other succeed. I know I made the right choice because this environment has already provided countless opportunities for learning and growth.”

What do you like to do on your free time?

“When I’m not busy with school, I spend a lot of time reading, listening to music/podcasts, going for walks, and binging crime TV shows. I also love having movie nights with my friends and spending quality time with my family and two dogs!”

Our Why FSU spotlight this week is Jamie Rosenberg. She is in her first year in our M.S./Ed.S program and is from Jacksonville, FL!

Why did you choose FSU?

“When applying to graduate school, I knew I wanted to stay in Florida. FSU was one of my top schools because I had heard of how successful the program is. On interview day, I was moved by how welcoming the faculty and students were. Everyone seemed so supportive of one another; I knew that FSU would be the perfect place to pursue my graduate degree.”

What do you like to do on your free time?

“In my free time, I love spending time with friends and family. Especially my niece, who is my favorite person! I also enjoy finding a good show to watch, exploring nature trials, going to the beach, and getting to spend time with my pets!”

Our intern spotlight this week features Becan Hennighan! Becan's internship site is located in Lee County, Florida. Check out what she has to say about her internship experience!

This week's WhyFSU spotlight is Nakeysha Holden! She is in her first year in our M.S./Ed.S program and is from Marianna, FL!

Why did you choose FSU?

“I chose FSU because it has been my dream school since I was little. I was born in Tallahassee and raised in Marianna, Fl, a small town nearby. My entire family has always rooted for FSU and loved them as much as I do. I had the opportunity to tour FSU before transferring here during undergrad. I loved the beautiful campus and how friendly the people were. When I researched school psychology graduate programs, staying at FSU was my first choice. This program has amazing staff, students and academic success. I genuinely love FSU and will always be a Nole girl.”

What do you like to do on your free time?

“My favorite thing to do is spent quality time with family and friends. I also love to travel, sing, listen to music, enjoy great food and watch a new movie or tv show.”

On this beautiful day we wanted to wish everyone a Happy Veterans Day and say thank you to all of our wonderful Veterans, including our very own Jordan Simons! For those of you who may not know, Jordan served in the military prior to enrolling into our program. He has been an awesome student, collaborator, and asset to the School Psychology program. We are very proud to have him. Jordan, thank you for your service.

This week's WhyFSU spotlight is Jordan Simons. He is in his first year in our M.S./Ed.S program and is from Clovis, CA.

Why did you choose FSU?

“The FSU School Psychology program was the first graduate program to offer me an interview and the last program to accept me. I felt a really good energy during and after the interview day and it did not dissipate. Even after two other interviews with graduate programs that ended up with them offering me acceptance letters. There was three things that impressed me about the FSU program at interview day. One. I could see how passionate the faculty is about school psychology; especially teaching the subject. Two. The 1st year cohort seemed ecstatic about the program and really close to each other. Three. The professionalism and totality of how the interview day was administered even when it was over zoom. A first for the FSU School Psychology program. Ultimately, these three things that impressed me carried over to some other valuable things about the program. It was the only program that I got accepted to that gives me the opportunity to obtain two degrees when I graduate i.e., a M.S. and Ed.S. The practicum embedded in the program was by far the best out of the three graduate programs that I got accepted to.”

What do you like to do on your free time?

“One of my main hobbies that kind of compounded in the last 18 months is golf. It gives me the valuable opportunity to be outside and take a break from it all. I am also a die-hard San Francisco 49ers fan so I watch, listen, or read anything about them when I can. I also enjoy running or hiking trails, eating great food, and watching movies/shows; especially suspenseful dramas or psychological thrillers.”

Please join us this Friday 11/12 at 5 PM to hear Dr. Charles Barrett speak! For those joining on Zoom, you can use the following link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/96166738821

This week's WhyFSU spotlight is Cary Trierweiler! Cary is in her first year in our M.S./Ed.S program and is from Homer, NY.

Why did you choose FSU?

“I initially had no idea where I wanted to attend Graduate school and had applied to various programs in various states. FSU was my first interview, and therefore became my benchmark for the interview process. After other interviews, I can confidently say that no other program impressed me more than FSU. The current students seemed like a big family, and it was evident that the faculty were there to help their students become successful professionals. I loved the learning environment and program opportunities. FSU checked all my boxes.”

What do you like to do on your free time?

“One of my favorite things to do is spend time with friends, family, and my dog Lexi. I love both volleyball and basketball. In my free time I like to eat good food and watch good movies!”

Our intern spotlight this week is Summer Orzabal! Summer is currently interning in Leon County, Florida. Take a look to see what she has to say about her internship experience!

This week's WhyFSU spotlight is Sam Kautzmann! Sam is in her first year in our M.S./Ed.S program and is from Davie, FL!

Why did you choose FSU?

“I completed my undergrad here at FSU. In my sophomore year, I found out that FSU had an M.S./Ed.S. graduate program for school psychology and I knew that I wanted to apply. In fact, FSU was the only graduate program I applied to, so I'm glad I made the cut! Throughout the application process, I met professors who were approachable, supportive, and interesting to talk to. The interview phase didn't even feel like an interview. Everyone was so friendly and passionate about the program and the work that they do or want to do. Plus, the new counseling practicum was very appealing!”

What do you like to do on your free time?

“I enjoy both indoor and outdoor activities. I love going on hikes, visiting springs and lakes, playing ultimate frisbee, going to the gym, and dancing. I like playing board games and watching movies with my friends or just being by myself and taking the time to read a good book, watch some anime, or do some painting.”

This week's WhyFSU spotlight is Emily Paul! She is in her first year in our M.S./Ed.S program and is from Fort Lauderdale, FL!

Why did you choose FSU?

“Before interview day had ended, I had made up my mind that FSU's School Psychology program was where I wanted to be. The interview experience was exemplary. Both the faculty and students were so warm and welcoming. I could see how passionate the faculty were about the success of their students and sense how supportive the students were of each other. An extra selling point for me was getting to see the campus in person for the first time. It's already been a month, and I still get blown away by how breathtaking it is!”

What do you like to do on your free time?

“I enjoy creative expression through crafting, journaling, and writing poetry. To destress, I love thrift shopping, ice cream runs, Pinterest scrolling, and watching Disney Princess movies!”

Our Intern Spotlight this week is Hailey Pietraszewski! Hailey's internship site is located in Sugar Land, Texas!

This week's WhyFSU spotlight is Alyssa Alexander. She is in her first year in our M.S./Ed.S program and is from Rockford, IL!

Why did you choose FSU?

“FSU was one of the only programs that I interviewed for where the students actually seemed like they really enjoyed the program and each other. Interview day was so welcoming and it felt more like you were a having a conversation with the professors rather than being grilled with questions. Going to FSU also allowed me to leave my midwest bubble and attend classes at a gorgeous campus with palm trees! I still get so excited every time I see a little lizard.”

What do you like to do on your free time?

“I really enjoy reading or listening to music while I hammock at a park. I also found out during quarantine that I am very into puzzling. Once I start, I can't do absolutely anything else until that puzzle is finished.”

Our Intern Spotlight this week features Lesley Lowrey! Lesley's internship site is located in Pinellas County, FL.

Our WhyFSU spotlight this week is Marissa Feldman! Marissa is from Coral Springs, FL and is a second-year student in the M.S./Ed.S. program.

Why did you choose FSU?
"As soon as I got to FSU for interview day, I immediately felt a welcoming energy. I was taken aback by how close-knit everyone in the program seemed to be and wanted to be a part of that. I loved how supportive everyone was toward each other! I knew that this was the best school/environment for me to flourish in after that day and to feel a sense of belonging."

What do you like to do in your free time?
"I love spending my free time hanging out with friends, never a bad day when I'm with them! I also enjoy watching movies on Netflix, photography, game nights, and long road trips with a good playlist."

We are excited to kick off our intern spotlights again with a new class of interns! Our first spotlight of the new school year features Rachael Coates. Rachael is currently interning for a public charter academy in Boston, MA. Here is what she has to say about her experience so far:

Congratulations, Dr. Marks!!!

Congratulations to Dr. Laura Reid Marks, assistant professor in the FSU Counseling Psychology and School Psychology Combined PhD Program, who received a McKnight Junior Faculty Fellowship. This fellowship promotes excellence in teaching and research by underrepresented minorities and women and allows fellows to receive a one-year sabbatical to engage in research and training projects related to securing tenure and promotion. Marks' research focuses on minority stressors (e.g., overt racism, racial microaggressions) and their deleterious effects on the lives of people of color. Her long-term goal is to develop culturally tailored interventions to reduce health disparities that exist for people of color.

Our WhyFSU spotlight this week is Courtney Queen! Courtney is a first year in our M.S./ Ed.S. program and is from Dallas, TX!

Why did you choose FSU?

“I completed undergrad here at FSU. When I learned about the School Psychology program, I knew that my time in Tallahassee was not up. As I came to learn more about the program and saw how much current students loved it I knew that a program like FSU's would be a dream to be a part of. Now, here I am and all of the wonderful things about the program, people, and professors are completely true.”

What do you like to do on your free time?

“My favorite past times include reading, taking my dog for walks, traveling, and spending quality time with my friends and family. I also have a lot of random hobbies like floral design and photography that I love.”

Our WhyFSU spotlight this week is Breanna Horton! Breanna is a first year in our M.S./ Ed.S. program and is from Northhills, CA!

Why did you choose FSU?

“I choose FSU because I was really impressed with the practicum experience that it offered. I felt that it would prepare me to be the best school psychologist I could be and would create a solid foundation for my knowledge and skills. On interview day, I really fell in love with the campus and overall atmosphere. Everyone truly made me feel like I was going to be apart of something bigger and were so kind and welcoming. I am very excited to be apart of my cohort and I am looking forward to what this year and the years to come at FSU will hold!”

What do you like to do on your free time?

“I come from a pretty musical family, so I really enjoy playing the piano, drums, and guitar. I also really enjoy hanging out with friends, cooking, painting, and traveling!”