How did you become a division volunteer or leader?
I was referred to APA Division 18 by Anne Klee, PhD, whom I met during my time as the student representative for the Connecticut Psychological Association. Dr. Klee has been an incredible professional support and mentor, and she introduced me to Gayle Y. Iwamasa, PhD, HSPP—someone she spoke so highly of as a leader, advocate, and psychologist (which I have come to appreciate through my own experiences with Dr. Iwamasa). Having learned so much from Dr. Klee and seeing the positive impact she had on my professional trajectory, I was thrilled and honored to be connected with Division 18. This opportunity has allowed me to engage with these important efforts on a national level.
What do you get out of your involvement?
I am continually inspired by the members of APA Division 18 and their unwavering commitment to the division’s mission of advancing public service psychology. Their dedication deeply resonates with my own values as a future psychologist, and being part of this community energizes my professional growth.
What does a typical workday look like for you?
I am currently a pre-doctoral intern at VA Newington, in my first rotation where I conduct neuropsychological evaluations of veterans with dementia, traumatic brain injury, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and other neurological conditions under the supervision of Dr. Nicholas Vissicchio. I am also involved in the Whole Health program as a minor rotation, where I am designing and implementing an art-based wellness group for veterans and offering guided imagery and mindfulness-based services. When I’m not at the VA, my other professional responsibilities include chipping away at my dissertation entitled “Art Therapy's Role in Ameliorating Executive Functioning Deficits Secondary to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder,” working part-time as a licensed professional counselor at Kiefer Counseling, or engaging in psychobiographical research projects.
Who inspires you?
I am most inspired by my husband, Brian Walsh, who has been an incredible support to me throughout my training program and continues to demonstrate the importance of balance and perspective in all that we do. I have also been fortunate to meet many incredible individuals who have paved the way for my professional growth. My dissertation mentor, Joseph Ponterotto, PhD, has shown me how to achieve excellence in the field while maintaining a strong connection to family and personal values. Dr. Ana Gertsberg, my first externship supervisor, sparked my passion for neuropsychology. Derek Fenwick, who served as president of the Connecticut Psychological Association during my tenure as student representative, inspired me to remain actively engaged in public service through professional associations and modeled true leadership. The list goes on- and I am so grateful for the opportunity to learn from so many encouraging mentors, including my current internship supervisor, Dr. Nicholas Vissicchio.
What advice would you offer to new members or new leaders/volunteers?
Find a mentor and invest in building a meaningful relationship with them. These connections are where you’ll gain the most insight, encouragement, and opportunities for growth.
What is your favorite place to travel to? What is next on your travel list?
Damariscotta, Maine. I go every year with family and friends, and this upcoming summer will be especially exciting as I will be bringing my newborn son, Camden Todd, for the first time!
If you weren’t a psychologist, what would you be?
I would be an artist. I love painting- I find that “turning off” my brain and simply relaxing into the art-making process to be rejuvenating and rewarding. I also enjoy writing, and since the birth of my son, I’ve been thinking that in a different life, I would be authoring and illustrating children's books—perhaps a future collaboration with my husband, Brian!
Contact: Brittney Romagna