Elizabeth Getzoff, PhD: Division volunteer

I joined the Society of Pediatric Psychology (SPP) while I was in graduate school. I have continued to be a member because I found SPP to be my professional home—a community of amazing pediatric psychologists committed to providing best-practice clinical care and conducting needed research using the best psychological science to improve the lives of children and families. I have now been a member for over 20 years, and SPP has been an important part of my professional growth throughout my career.

My leadership journey began with involvement in the Special Interest Groups (SIGs). One of the things I value most about SPP is the opportunity to connect with colleagues and contribute through the SIGs and affinity groups, where I found meaningful opportunities to collaborate and learn. Those experiences eventually led me to pursue broader leadership roles, and I decided to run for APA Council Representative at the encouragement of an SPP colleague.

Being a pediatric psychologist is especially awesome because each day is different and often includes playing games or basketball. I value the variety in my clinical work, meetings with students, and planning didactics. I typically start around 8 a.m. by checking email, begin seeing clinical cases or supervising students by 9 a.m., attend rounds or other midday meetings, and finish clinical cases around 6 p.m. On a typical day, I may see 5–6 cases, meet with students, and attend three or four meetings.

I was voted as the next Jacques Cousteau in my senior year of high school. Ultimately, psychology took my career focus, but I love the ocean. There is nowhere I’d rather be than on a boat and scuba diving.  

Contact: Elizabeth Getzoff, PhD, can be reached via email.