New Member Spotlight: Julia Kidwell, Ph.D., L.P.

1) What is your background in psychology (e.g., education)?
I have my undergraduate degree from the University of St. Thomas, where I double majored in psychology and theology. After my undergraduate work, I went to Iowa State University for my master’s degree and Ph.D. in counseling psychology. Being a true Cyclone, I also completed my predoctoral internship at the Iowa State University Student Counseling Services. After finishing my Ph.D., I completed a postdoctoral fellowship in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Minnesota Medical School, working with young adults with prodromal psychosis.

2)  Describe your current occupation and any involvement in the Minnesota Psychological Association if applicable.

I am currently a licensed psychologist in clinical practice at Arden Woods Psychological Services in Arden Hills. I also teach a few graduate and undergraduate classes at local universities for balance and variety in my day. After graduate school, I couldn’t quite decide if I should teach or do clinical work, so I decided to do both!  Additionally, I currently co-chair the New Psychologist Network division for MPA.

3) What inspired you to pursue a degree in psychology?

I have always genuinely loved to learn, which is of utmost importance if one is to survive graduate school! Also, I am fascinated by the process of how people grow, develop, and, most importantly, bounce back from obstacles and distress in their lives. I enjoy helping foster a sense of resiliency, empowerment, and strength in my clients and a sense of learning and curiosity in my students.

4) Why did you join the Minnesota Psychological Association?

Primarily to connect with other early career psychologists!  Having completed my graduate work out of state, I felt it was of paramount importance to my career to be as connected as possible with fellow early career psychologists in similar positions (navigating licensure, establishing their career, etc). I view the MPA as a way to further connections with early career psychologists and established, more experienced psychologists and to learn from, and connect to, both types of professionals.

5) What do you hope to learn/gain from your new membership?

I’m planning to continue to organize and attend MPA early career psychologist social events and am also hoping to take full advantage of some of the exciting continuing education opportunities MPA offers. I’ve attended a few First Friday Forums in the past and am hoping to add many more to my calendar in the future!

6) Any outside hobbies/interests you do not mind sharing?

Yoga, watching movies, and, though I hesitate to admit it, shopping!

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