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My Positive Psychology Story

I first became interested strength-based approaches when I worked with foster children at the Oregon Social Learning Center (OSLC) and with children diagnosed with ADHD at NYU Summer Program For Kids. At these programs, I was trained to focus on a child’s strengths and to reinforce their prosocial behaviors. I found this work to be helpful for these children and very rewarding for myself.  As I pursued my graduate degree I sought training opportunities at positive institutions such as The Greater good Science Center in Berkeley, CA.  Additionally, I wrote my dissertation exploring the benefits of volunteerism.  Most recently, I developed my own Positive Psychology workshops for college students while training at California State University Long Beach Counseling and Psychological Services.  I am excited to return to Oregon and share what I have learned (and what I am learning) about the growing field of positive psychology.