Program Highlights

SEU News

SEU Counseling Psychology Doctoral Student Brendan SullivanNavigating Dysmorphia as a Female Bodybuilder

“I started seeing my body the way a judge would whenever I looked in the mirror,” says Yessine Griffin, ‘21. “I imagined them noticing that my shoulders were too wide and that my waist wasn’t small enough.”

As a competitive bodybuilder on a national level, Yessine was used to judges being critical of her physique. Each competition, she would walk on stage, conduct her poses in the most flattering manner and prepare for the judgments about her presentation. Everything from the symmetry of her figure and the fit of her swimsuit to the muscular nature of her frame and the health of her body was analyzed. While Yessine expected to be judged on her body in those moments, she never anticipated the lasting effects it would have on her mental health.
Read Yessine's Story


SEU Counseling Psychology Doctoral Student Brendan SullivanTeaching Mental Health Tips to Athletes

While earning his doctorate in counseling psychology, Brendan Sullivan, '24, manages to also work as an Academic-Athletic Coach for Irvington High School. Having already completed a master's in sport and exercise psychology, Brendan holds study halls for student-athletes to ensure they all reach their fullest academic potential.

"It's rewarding for me to teach young athletes the mental skills that will help them both now and throughout their life," explains Brendan. "I'm inspired by the students because many are examples of excelling in the face of adversity."
Read Brendan's Story

Additional Pyschology News Stories

SEU Psychology Student Anthony Ferrer

Anthony Ferrer has been running his own business since he was nine years old. However, the inspiration for Magic by Anthony Events initially came from his grandparents.

“When I was four years old, my grandmother would bring me to the ‘magic corner’ in our house,” explains Ferrer, a first-year doctoral student in SEU’s psychology program. “I’d stand with my face toward the wall, say a specific phrase and candy would pop out of the corner!”

Awestruck by the sudden appearance of sweet treats, Ferrer developed a love for magic. Years later, when he realized that his grandmother was just throwing the candy into the corner, his fascination with the art of illusion didn’t fade. In fact, it strengthened.

“Magic is all about entertainment and giving someone else the opportunity to smile,” says Ferrer. “Sometimes we just need a break in our day and magic takes you out of yourself.”

Earlier this year, Ferrer became a board member for the non-profit organization, Magical Healing. Its purpose: to transform children into confident performers and empower them to uplift vulnerable populations through the wonderment of magic. Ferrer, who struggled with anxiety growing up, has seen the organization benefit timid children firsthand.

“I was that quiet kid standing in the back of the room and magic changed everything for me. By teaching this skill to kids, we’re allowing them to develop their own voice and medium for expression in the world,” says Ferrer. “Then these kids give back to the community by entertaining veterans, hospitalized children, seniors and struggling families. That’s the real magic.”

Simone RobinsonSimone Robinson, '19, moved 1,575 miles away from home after recognizing the value of an education from Saint Elizabeth University. Originally from the island of Jamaica, Simone was enamored by SEU's reputation for academic success and commitment to inclusivity.

"I always speak about my love for the diversity at SEU," remarks Simone, who is an ambassador for the University and frequently gives tours to prospective students and their parents. "I make sure everyone knows that if they attend SEU, then they will be accepted regardless of class, color or creed."

Embracing all people has always been an integral part of SEU's history. In October, SEU earned a ranking of "Best Ethnic Diversity" colleges by U.S. News & World Report. The annual "Best Colleges" list includes SEU as one of the top 15 most ethnically diverse in the "Regional Universities – North", making it one of only three private New Jersey schools in that category.

Most recently, Simone joined The Solidarity Project: DiverSEU. This program, based on Everyday Democracy's publication "Facing Racism in a Diverse Nation", fosters conversations about racism, stereotypes, prejudice and colorism.

"It's important to broaden one's awareness about these issues and strive to always meet the highest level of dignity and respect for everyone involved," says Simone.

In addition to DiverSEU, Simone is deeply involved in just about every facet of the University. She's a member of the tennis team, works as a writing tutor in SEU's Academic Success Center, as a student assistant in the Office of Health Services and is a mentor for students in both the Honors Program and FASTRAK. Comparable to an educational boot camp, FASTRAK begins prior to SEU's formal Orientation and aims to better prepare freshmen for the rigors of college.

This semester, Simone also became an Independent College Fund of New Jersey (ICFNJ) scholar and was awarded a grant to conduct research.

As a first-generation college student, Simone truly understands the value of a liberal arts education. She firmly believes that this type of education enables students to communicate effectively, challenge antiquated thoughts patterns and stimulate a love for learning.

"Coming from a little island, it is easy to lose hope with regards to finding a sound career," says Simone. "But studying at SEU has opened my eyes to unlimited possibilities."

Upon graduating Simone plans to earn her master's in counseling psychology from SEU.

Danielle Crosson, '20Human trafficking, corruption, and fraud – these topics are typically reserved for the subject of evocative headlines. However, Danielle Crosson, '20, spent eight weeks fighting these serious crimes with the Newark division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). As part of the FBI's prestigious Honors Internship Program, Crosson was able to work on real, time-sensitive cases.

"In most internships, students spend a lot of time shadowing someone else without too much hands-on experience," explains Crosson, a double major in both psychology and criminal justice. "However, just a day after orientation I was analyzing bank records, watching surveillance videos and conducting data analysis."

For Crosson, this internship was a dream come true. She'd been intent on joining the law enforcement field ever since she was a child and nothing was going to get in her way. Even when doctors informed Crosson that she needed serious reconstructive knee surgery just one week before the program began, her commitment never wavered. She underwent the intensive surgery and showed up to the FBI headquarters on crutches, ready to work.

"I grew up watching TV shows where law enforcement agents would work on these exciting cases and always wanted to do what they were doing," explains Crosson, whose father was the chief of police in Chatham Borough. "Now, when I watch crime shows with friends, I can actually say, 'I got to do this. I was involved in this.' I'm just amazed by how far I've come."

Prior to entering college, Crosson was a junior instructor at the Summit Youth Police Academy (YPA), which is designed to mimic the actual police academy for middle school students. Since Crosson completed the program twice herself, she was the perfect guide for the younger students.

Upon graduating from SEU, Crosson hopes to earn her master's in psychology and ultimately aspires to join the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit. She believes it's imperative to study criminals from a psychological perspective in order to better understand their motives and predict their future crimes.

"Law enforcement is the perfect career choice for me because it's a way to give back to the community and help others," says Crosson. "And studying at SEU has been essential in preparing me for this career."

Lotan LunskiEver since he was eight years old, Lotan Lunski, '21, knew he wanted to become a psychologist. A native of Kiyrat, Israel, Lotan's passion for mental health care was solidified after witnessing the benefits of counseling firsthand. He chose to pursue his doctorate in counseling psychology at SEU because of the University's small class sizes and highly credentialed faculty members.

"I love the environment of SEU," says Lotan, who plans on dedicating his life to making mental health care both accessible and affordable. "The positive energy and individualized commitment from the psychology department has been extremely beneficial."

Over the past several years, Lotan's compassion for those in need has led him to work with numerous vulnerable populations. Most notably, he's counseled adults who have sustained traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). This experience shaped his interest in studying neuropsychology, or how the structure and function of the brain relates to specific psychological behaviors and processes.

Recently, his commitment to social justice and advocacy for disadvantaged populations led him to explore forensic psychology. In this position, Lotan assisted children who were the victims of sexual abuse.

"Everyone should have access to proper mental health treatment," says Lotan.

Currently, Lotan advises students as part of SEU's "Let's Talk" program. Initially developed by Cornell University, Let's Talk aims to engage students who are not inclined to seek counseling. It's an informal opportunity to drop by and talk with a counselor without any appointment necessary.

As he continues his career, Lotan hopes to work in a hospital, open a private practice and do pro bono work to assist those who cannot afford to seek the help they need.

Ashley Appleton"People tend to treat others how they would like to be treated, which sounds like a positive concept, but it doesn't consider what another person may actually want," explains Ashley Appleton, '21, a student in SEU's counseling psychology doctoral program. "Multicultural psychology encourages others to be more mindful of how race, culture and identity impact a person's needs."

Appleton recently deepened her understanding of this concept by attending Hominis 2018, a prestigious, international conference in Havana, Cuba. While there, Appleton was able to network with mental health professionals from around the world and immerse herself in all aspects of Cuban healthcare. She visited psychiatric hospitals, medical clinics, major hospitals and schools.

Currently, Appleton is using her knowledge of multicultural psychology to enhance her work as both an adjunct professor and a licensed counselor. She feels strongly about working with marginalized and stigmatized communities. In fact, her passion for helping those in need led her to offer pro bono counseling services to individuals and families who wouldn't have been able to afford it otherwise.

"I don't think people are fully functioning if they're not mentally healthy," says Appleton. "Even if you're not planning on entering the field, studying psychology and having some knowledge on how to cope with issues is essential to proper function."

Appleton chose to earn her degree at SEU because of the opportunities it afforded her.

"I was interested in counseling and teaching so the doctoral program at Saint Elizabeth University offered me the best of both worlds," says Appleton. "I could focus on therapy while also pursuing teaching at a collegiate level."

Learn more about studying psychology at SEU here: www.steu.edu/psychology.

Deja IngramDeja Ingram, '19, has been playing basketball since she was just eight years old. While she excelled in the sport all throughout high school, her confidence wavered when contemplating playing collegiately.

"I was so worried that I wouldn't perform well in college that I lost my love for playing ball," explains Ingram. "But meeting the players and coaches at SEU encouraged me to keep going."

Fortunately for the Eagles, Ingram's passion returned and her talent on the court has grown exponentially. In fact, she's become the first person in SEU history to earn 1,000 career points and 1,000 career rebounds.

Despite this impressive accomplishment, Ingram has never allowed her athletic prowess to obscure her sense of humility.

"You're nothing without the whole team," says Ingram, who plays as a small forward. "You need everyone working together to succeed."

After graduating, Ingram plans on enrolling in SEU's master of arts in counseling psychology program. She's particularly interested in becoming a school counselor and helping high schoolers uncover their passions.

"I had great counselors at SEU and they helped me figure out exactly what I want to do with my life," says Ingram. "So, I'd like to return the favor."

Ashley FriedmanRecent psychology graduate, Ashley Friedman of West Paterson, N.J., is using the skills she learned at SEU to help those with developmental and intellectual disabilities.

Just two weeks after receiving her diploma from SEU, Friedman started her position as a direct support specialist at Capitol Care in Mount Arlington, N.J. She's now working with people who struggle with autism spectrum disorders, Down syndrome, bipolar disorders, depression and anxiety.

"This is a very hands-on career that's always changing and requiring me to learn more each day," says Friedman. "It's going to benefit me just as much as it's going to benefit my patients."

Friedman is no stranger to service-learning. While at SEU, she volunteered with the Student Outreach and Academic Reinforcement (SOAR) program in Morristown, N.J. which connects needy fifth graders with college students who tutor in reading, spelling and mathematics.

"It was the most rewarding program I've ever been in," explains Friedman. "The kids were wonderful. Just to know that I made an impact in their lives socially as well as academically was amazing."

Friedman insists that her career path and passion in life would have never been realized without SEU.

"If I had attended a bigger school," she says. "I would have been lost. I wouldn't have put myself out there and I wouldn't have had professors who pushed me to enhance my resumé and really helped me out."

 


Dissertation Defenses

SEU Psychology Alumna Denyse WoodsDenyse Woods

Denyse Woods has successfully defended her dissertation at Saint Elizabeth University to earn a Psy.D. degree in Counseling Psychology.

For her dissertation, An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of Public Attitudes Toward the Forensic Population and the U.S. Criminal Justice System, Dr. Woods examined attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions to generate knowledge that can be disseminated and used to influence laws and policies that affect the justice system and forensic population to encourage better outcomes. This will help provide her with a strong voice and platform to advocate for vulnerable individuals.

Morristown, N.J. (December 15, 2020) – Denyse Woods has successfully defended her dissertation at Saint Elizabeth University to earn a Psy.D. degree in Counseling Psychology.

As she started the program, being a newlywed and new mother, Dr. Woods wanted to focus on the social inequities in our society today. She was especially motivated by the experiences of marginalized populations and mental health disparities. Saint Elizabeth University’s counseling psychology program was a good fit for Dr. Woods because of their strong emphasis on social justice and multiculturalism.

For her dissertation, An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of Public Attitudes Toward the Forensic Population and the U.S. Criminal Justice System, Dr. Woods examined attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions to generate knowledge that can be disseminated and used to influence laws and policies that affect the justice system and forensic population to encourage better outcomes. This will help provide her with a strong voice and platform to advocate for vulnerable individuals.

Dr. Woods is currently working with clients impacted by significant histories of trauma. She conducts therapy sessions and forensic psychological evaluations for the purpose of recommending services that benefit emotional and behavioral functioning. Dr. Woods seeks to empower all of her clients through the development of skills and techniques to improve their overall mental health.

Among all of her other accomplishments, Dr. Woods is also an adjunct professor at SEU. She likes teaching introduction to counseling because of the different activities they were able to do and the collaborative environment it provided. “I would strongly urge students to consider SEU’s doctorate program because of the support from faculty and classmates with the cohort model and the emphasis on social justice,” Dr. Woods says. “Good self-care and support from family and friends make it easier to complete the program.”

From earning her master’s degree at Saint Elizabeth University through to her doctorate, Dr. Woods has left her mark on SEU and will continue to affect change as she continues her important work.


SEU Psychology Alumna Meredith GondoMeredith Gondo

Dr. Meredith Gondo has successfully defended her dissertation at Saint Elizabeth University to earn a Psy.D. degree in Counseling Psychology.

For her dissertation, "A Biopsychosocial-Spiritual Model of Chronic Pain in Adults", Gondo focused on chronic pain and the factors in life and spirituality that influence how pain is experienced. Using the biopsychosocial model, she was able to conceptualize pain and find evidence that spirituality did influence pain experience for some individuals. Gondo has suggested a biopsychosocial-spiritual model would be useful for clients to navigate through their chronic pain conditions.

Morristown, NJ (November 25, 2020) – Dr. Meredith Gondo has successfully defended her dissertation at Saint Elizabeth University to earn a Psy.D. degree in Counseling Psychology.

As an individual who has an extremely strong interest in social justice, fighting against the stigma of mental health in America, and working with underrepresented populations, Gondo was drawn to those aspects in the SEU counseling psychology program. Her experience through the program allowed her the opportunity to work with the elderly, whom she plans to work with and advocate for in the future.

For her dissertation, "A Biopsychosocial-Spiritual Model of Chronic Pain in Adults", Gondo focused on chronic pain and the factors in life and spirituality that influence how pain is experienced. Using the biopsychosocial model, she was able to conceptualize pain and find evidence that spirituality did influence pain experience for some individuals. Gondo has suggested a biopsychosocial-spiritual model would be useful for clients to navigate through their chronic pain conditions.

Gondo hopes that psychologists can become more involved in the treatment of health conditions. She sees this happening by the growing practice of therapists promoting positive lifestyle choices, educating and supporting both patients and caregivers, all while addressing mental health concerns. Gondo has stated, "offering non-medical treatments for health conditions is one way to potentially reduce reliance on medications and perhaps encourage behaviors which might lead to improvements in health outcomes."

With so much physical and psychological challenges happening in our world today, her contribution to the field and to her clients will be most needed and welcomed.