Fostering the business interests and professional development of the psychology community. |
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Member Spotlight - The Sunfield Institute |
WPS takes great pride in its members, who are driven, passionate, and highly accomplished. We believe our audience can gain valuable insights by getting to know them better. That's why we're conducting member interviews—so you can connect with the inspiring individuals who make up our community. |
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Suzi Naguib’s journey into psychology was shaped by a series of unexpected turns and a deep curiosity about human behavior. Initially drawn to pediatric dentistry, her path shifted after taking an introductory psychology course in college, which ignited her passion for understanding and supporting individuals, particularly those with neurodivergent needs. Her multicultural upbringing in Brazil and Egypt, coupled with her experiences living in diverse environments, profoundly influenced her approach to psychology, emphasizing cultural humility, adaptability, and the importance of tailoring support to each individual’s unique context.
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Suzi pursued her education focusing on ADHD, behavioral disorders, and autism, eventually earning her doctorate and completing postdoctoral training at NYU Child Study Center and the University of Michigan. Today, she is a leader in her field, co-founding the Sunfield Center and the Sunfield Institute, where she trains clinicians and professionals worldwide to provide evidence-based, inclusive care. |
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Rachel Piper Kress’s journey into psychology was similarly guided by a desire to help others, particularly children. Initially considering a career in education, she discovered her passion for psychology after taking a course in college. Her professional path has been marked by a commitment to hands-on training and supervision, and she has grown within the Sunfield Center from a practicum student to a leadership role. Rachel’s work focuses on fostering creativity and problem-solving, in both her clinical practice and in her personal life.
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Looking ahead, Suzi’s professional goals center on expanding the Sunfield Institute. She focuses on training the next generation of clinicians and professionals to provide high-quality, culturally sensitive care for neurodivergent individuals. She also aims to educate professionals outside the mental health field to create more inclusive environments. Rachel, on the other hand, is dedicated to ensuring the continued growth and success of the Sunfield Center, emphasizing hands-on training and mentorship within the organization.
Both Suzi and Rachel find joy in creative and personal pursuits outside of their professional lives. Suzi is currently learning sign language to improve communication with deaf individuals and is exploring her musical side by learning to play the guitar. She also enjoys crocheting, particularly for the many babies in her life. Rachel has been diving into crafting and furniture upcycling, finding it both relaxing and a way to express her creativity.
Suzi and Rachel both emphasize the importance of teamwork, humility, and continuous learning in their professional journeys. Suzi’s advice to her younger self—and others—is to do what brings them joy, as success often follows passion and hard work. Rachel echoes this sentiment, encouraging others to seek roles that align with their interests and strengths. Together, they highlight the value of building a supportive team, recognizing each member's unique contributions, and fostering an environment of collaboration and growth.
Their shared commitment to inclusivity, evidence-based care, and the empowerment of neurodivergent individuals underscores their dedication to making a meaningful impact in the field of psychology. Through their work at the Sunfield Center and Sunfield Institute, they continue to inspire and support both their team and the broader community, creating spaces where diverse perspectives are valued and individuals can thrive. |
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Practical Tips for Therapeutic Change Dr. Larry Perlman |
Biological Mood Regulators Plus One
The triad of biological regulators are Exercise, Diet, and Sleep. In addition, contact with other people contributes to mood stability. These regulators have been found to help people who are prone to cyclical mood swings (e.g., Bipolar II or Cyclothymia, as well as Depression). I have discovered that contact with other people can help to improve mood considerably.
Exercise: I routinely prescribe a daily exercise regimen for my patients with mood disorders. It can be something as simple as taking a daily walk. It’s preferable that they do this outdoors and without using their smartphones. Doing so in silence and in a natural environment is ideal. It is also desirable to find an exercise buddy or take a group class.
Diet: Regular meals, especially breakfast, are important. Many of my clients are rushed in the morning and skip breakfast. I encourage them to get in the habit of at least eating a granola bar or other healthy snack. Likewise, I encourage them to eat healthy meals, particularly fruits and vegetables, on a regular basis.
Sleep: Maintaining a consistent sleep program is the third biological regulator. Many clients have dysfunctional sleep routines. They lack regular wake up and bedtimes. I utilize basic tools derived from CBT-I (Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Insomnia) to establish regularity.
Clients are encouraged to keep fixed wake and bedtimes, even on weekends and nonworking days. When they have difficulty falling asleep or returning to sleep during the night, they are instructed to get out of bed and engage in a non-stimulating activity, such as reading or listening to quiet music. After 15 minutes, they can try to fall back asleep. If unsuccessful, they repeat the process. Research has demonstrated that such interventions significantly improve mood.
Interpersonal Contact is not always included with these biological regulators. However, I have found it to be an essential element in stabilizing mood. Many clients are socially isolated. They may avoid contact with others and keep their eyes glued to their mobile devices. We start with just making eye contact. That can be a revelation for some folks. We then move to greeting people, even strangers, with some pleasantry. A further step is learning people’s names and saying “Hello, Joe.”
This may lead up to actual conversations. These do not have to include deep meaningful sharing. It is prudent to prepare the client for how to exit a conversation when the other party turns out to be problematic in some respect—for example, folks who are “sticky” or conversations that go in unpleasant directions. Individuals who are actively hallucinating can be rather challenging.
The interventions described above are also useful for clients with ADHD. They provide a framework for organizing daily routines. My colleagues who do educational coaching employ similar techniques. There is a considerable literature on this approach. The results contribute to improved mood and self-confidence. |
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Pain Management: Prescribing Privileges for Psychologists
and the Use of Psychotropic Medications Terry L. Braciszewski, Ph.D., MSCP March 21st, 2025 | 12PM to 2PM |
This webinar has been approved by the University of Detroit Mercy, which is our partner in the offerings of Continuing Education activities.
Information will be presented regarding medications often prescribed to treat a broad spectrum of behavioral health issues including depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, neurocognitive disorders, ADHD, and sleep disorders. New medications that have recently been approved by the FDA will be included.
Pain management strategies and the use of psychotropic medications in pain management will be addressed. Specific medications will be reviewed as well as other medical procedures available to the patient.
Lastly, information regarding prescription privileges for psychologists will be discussed, including training and supervision. Several states allow appropriately trained, clinical psychopharmacologists to prescribe. Other states have legislation pending or being proposed.
Registration for this zoom webinar is open! Non-members pay $60 per person and Members pay $40 per person. Membership costs only $75 yearly.
Click here to become a member |
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| Terry L Braciszewski, Ph.D. MSCP Dr. Braciszewski completed his MS in Clinical Psychopharmacology (MSCP) and passed the APA Psychopharmacology Exam for Psychologists (PEP) in 2008. He completed his supervised clinical experience in psychopharmacology under a board certified physiatrist.
Dr. Braciszewski has clinical training and experience in rehabilitation psychology and neuropsychology. He has over 40 years of experience in assessment and treatment of neurologically challenged people and coordination of interdisciplinary teams. Currently, he provides service to the public through his practice, Momentum Rehab LLC. Since 2018, he has treated people at the Beaver Island Rural Health Clinic. In addition, he evaluates candidates pursuing religious vocations in the Michigan Catholic Dioceses of Lansing and Gaylord.
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Examining the Ethics and Roles of Psychologists During and Following Community-Wide Disasters
Crystal Cederna, PsyD. & Kenyetta Dotson, DMIN, MSW April 11th, 2025 | 12PM to 2PM
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This webinar has been approved by the University of Detroit Mercy, which is our partner in the offerings of Continuing Education activities.
This presentation will review the events surrounding the Flint Water Crisis (FWC), including what unfolded, the data and developmental impact of lead, and the community response. Thereafter, the presentation will shift to roles of psychologists during and after the FWC, with an emphasis on ethical challenges, roles, relevant skills, and the importance of community engaged practices. Given the impacts of global warming, civil unrest, and other forces, most attendees will face large-scale disaster in the future. Consequently, the presentation will wrap up by supporting attendees in identifying what psychologists can do now in preparation for the next unexpected, community-scale or larger disaster they will encounter.
Registration for this event is now open! Non-members pay $60 per person and Members pay $40 per person. Membership costs only $75 yearly. Click here to become a member |
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Crystal Cederna, PsyD.
Dr. Crystal Cederna is a doctoral level, fellowship trained Clinical Psychologist with 15 years of experience working with children and families while training pediatricians-to-be in child behavior, development, and psychiatric conditions. She's served over 4,000 families in settings spanning primary care through intensive care settings, with expertise in child behavior and development, parenting, and mental health. Dr. Cederna has presented over 55 national peer-reviewed presentations and has 12 peer reviewed publications on areas of subject matter expertise. Currently, Dr. Cederna is an Associate Professor in the Charles Stewart Mott Department of Public Health at Michigan State University who is doing the work needed to reduce mental health stigma, improve mental health literacy, and make mental health easier to access and accessible earlier.
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Kenyetta Dotson, DMIN, MSW
Dr. Kenyetta Dotson has demonstrated a long-term commitment to moving Flint forward by creating partnerships. She is a Master’s Level Social Worker with a Doctor of Theology in Black Church and African American Studies. She has over thirty years’ experience working in the field of community engagement and outreach, violence prevention, safety, and public health. Throughout this time, Kenyetta has researched violence as a public health issue. With a focus on providing access to the most needed services, the ability to satisfy their basic needs, and support from community-based organizations, she seeks to break systems and cycles of violence. As a life-long resident and advocate in the City of Flint, Kenyetta knows that when citizens live in safe communities, where neighbors help, support and look out for one another, the neighborhood is safer, healthier, and a more vibrant place to live. Kenyetta has devoted her life to strengthening families, community, and fostering a sense of hope. As a member of the academic community, Kenyetta has been able to apply her decades long work as a community advocate to further create community-academic partnerships. Kenyetta has served as the Director of Community Based Implementation and Engagement for the MSU-Pediatric Public Health Initiative (PPHI) in partnership with Dr. Mona Hanna for over six years helping MSU-PPHI become a valued and trusted partner among Flint residents and the community.
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Upcoming Events:
Restrictive Eating Disorders, Anorexia & Bulimia – Jennifer VanBeck, PsyD. | May 16th Implicit Bias – Antoinette Crocilla | June 6th
We are lining up presenters and topics to fill out our webinar calendar through 2025. If you are a member of WPS and interested in presenting a topic to our community feel free to reach out to events@washtenawpsychologysociety.com. |
Donations are the Lifeblood WPS
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As members of our psychological community, we invite you to join us in sustaining the valuable work of WPS. As a lean organization, we face financial constraints that jeopardize our ability to maintain essential services. The costs of custom software and our dedicated part-time staff strain our resources. These fees also pay for our website, our searchable member directory, our two-hour lunch time webinars by experts in their specialties, occasional in-person networking meetings, and other services.
Your generous donations will not only help bridge this gap but also ensure the continuity of our mission. Together, let's continue to nurture this community of psychologists. We are grateful for your ongoing support and commitment to our shared vision. |
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Supporting Members: Geraldine Markel, Ph.D., Todd Favorite, Ph.D., Allan Newman.
Washtenaw Psychology Society is made possible by our donors and sponsors. If you would like to join our esteemed list of donors, visit our website www.washtenawpsychologysociety.com/donate |
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Looking for Neuropsych testing? |
Neuropsychology Partners provides assessments for Alzheimer's Disease, ADHD, Dementia, Learning disabilities, memory, Psychiatric Disorders (e.g depression, anxiety, OCD), Stroke and Cerebrovascular Disease, Tramatic Brain Injury (TBI). We start testing at age 16 and up.
We have two locations; Ann Arbor and Novi. Most insurances are accepted. Contact Information Phone: 734-961-7196
Website: https://neuropsychologyllc.com/
Email: neuropsychologypartners@neuropsychologyllc.com |
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Schedule a consultation today at www.neuror.com/consultation. |
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