08/09/2023
Every year I attend the American Psychological Association convention I leave feeling just utterly blessed that I get to work in this field. This year was no different.
In addition to presentations by stunningly brilliant minds and opportunities to fellowship with dear friends and colleagues, this year also afforded an opportunity to ensure that two of my heroes know just how much they have meant to me.
Through her rigorous coursework, serving on her research team and her serving on my dissertation committee, Dr. Janet E. Helms pushed me and pushed me and then pushed me some more towards being the psychologist she knew I could become even when, especially when, I did not.
Dr. Thema Bryant, the 2023 president of APA, has long influenced my clinical work. Her work in trauma treatment, her writings, and even the straight barn burner of a sermon she preached on the subject at Ebenezer Baptist Church here in Atlanta last month continues to guide the care I provide. It meant so much to me to let her know that.
As I have often said, all that I am, all that I will ever be is born of the community my journey has placed around me, and for that, I will ever be grateful.
