It’s very exciting for me to pursue a PhD
in Psychology because I didn't think that I would ever have this opportunity. I love education and so I've always harbored a desire to earn my PhD.
My research into this goal however, always discouraged me. The standard scenario of 5-7 years of
on-campus education without any other significant job was unrealistic. In 2009 just to satisfy my curiosity, I again
looked into the PhD programs at the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma
State. I learned that at least in my
state of residence, not much had changed in doctoral studies. I was very excited to discover and be
accepted into an accredited PhD program in psychology at NCU.
My intention is to focus my studies on
stress, violence, and trauma in order to help my fellow warriors in the
military, law enforcement, and other first-responders who face trauma and
violence and the consequences of it every day in their lives and in the lives
of others. I have 34 years of active duty
military, military contractor, and military civilian experience. I am also a
survivor of a pretty significant PTSD.
As we always said in the military: “been there, done that!”
Besides the fact that I could pursue my
doctorate while completing 3 tours in Afghanistan, and other classified locations,
I selected NCU because of their emphasis on the Practioner-Scholar model or
Vail approach to training in psychology.
I returned to Oklahoma and work with several friends in their counseling
clinic. I am combining my studies at NCU
with my practice under supervision, which will also earn my License in
Professional Counseling. I am also very
interested in further refining my doctoral work by completing an APA approved
internship. I believe this will enhance
my learning and prove useful in obtaining licensure as a psychologist.
