- Public Service Commission of Canada (Government of Canada) Excellence Award, 2001
Vancouver | Program Director | Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.)
I believe education should be a transformational process for both students and educators. Educating socially responsible scholars and practitioners is more than simply the transfer of technical information or creating procedural competencies; it is about creating a dynamic space of exchange. In my classroom, I strive to create a teaching and learning environment that allows all participants to use new knowledge to situate themselves in broader society and become aware of their roles as active agents of change and part of the evolution of their communities.
My teaching style is a combination of inquiry-based learning and direct instruction. I place emphasis on scientific method, critical thinking, self-awareness and agency, and the integration of information from various sources. I make use of a diversity of learning modalities, including self-directed research, peer input, direct instruction, mentoring, debate, and written output.
My research is focused in the areas of homelessness and poverty, palliative care, and alternative models of health-service delivery to marginalized groups, especially Indigenous peoples of Canada. Some of my research questions and investigations revolve around issues of accessibility and the impact of inequity and systemic disenfranchisement.
I am also interested in leadership theory and research, especially in the context of academic training and community mental health. Finally, research questions related to professional and personal development, and civic participation interest me.
Adler University in Vancouver has been, like Canada itself, born and built with an open mind. Located in the midst of one of the world’s most exciting and breathtaking cities, Adler University reflects a true Canadian spirit. It’s smart, inclusive and determined to make a world of difference. By design, our Vancouver campus echoes the Adler values and intent down every hall and in every room. It is built to live, breathe and inspire those with the passion to pursue a more just society. This is where the work gets done.
At Adler Vancouver, you’ll find multiple collaborative areas with the absolute latest technology. Learning areas and windows have literally been situated to stimulate thought. To some, that may sound odd, but these things do matter. If students are given the space, opportunity and technology to achieve their goals, they are more likely to rock the boat of conventional thought.