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Fostering the business interests and professional development of the psychology community.

WPS January Newsletter

 

Member Spotlight: Helen Kahn, 

Helen Kahn is a psychologist based in Marquette, and a new member of the Washtenaw
Psychology Society. She holds a Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology and a master’s degree in
Speech-Language Pathology, with an academic career that included positions at the University of Vermont and Northern Michigan University. Her early research focused on cognition and aging, and she later developed a strong interest in animal-assisted therapy, well before the field gained widespread recognition.


After completing a postdoctoral clinical re-specialization program, Helen became licensed as a psychologist in 2009. She recently returned to clinical work to help supervise a new private practice in Marquette, where she provides psychotherapy and conducts Emotional Support Animal evaluations using a protocol that assesses the human and animal bond.

Outside of work, Helen enjoys life in the U.P., sharing her home with her life partner, cats, and dogs. She also enjoys cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and birding year-round. She looks forward to staying connected with the WPS community and continuing to learn alongside fellow members.

 

 

Upcoming Events

A Guide To Understanding Autism, The Assessment Process, And Ethically Sound Clinically Sensitive Feedback For Parents

Suzi Naguib, Ph.D.

February 6th, 2026 | 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

This webinar has been approved by the University of Detroit Mercy, an institution regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, which is our partner in the offerings of Continuing Education activities.

 

This webinar provides an introductory overview of autism and two essential diagnostic tools used in assessment: the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2), and the Autism Diagnostic Interview–Revised (ADI-R). The training covers the components of autism diagnosis and then moves into developing the skills needed to deliver clinically sensitive and ethically appropriate diagnostic feedback to parents and caregivers. Participants will learn key elements of the parental experience when receiving an autism diagnosis, including the essential components of an ethically sound and effective feedback session. Participants will learn how to identify research-based supports for families coping with a new diagnosis.

 

Non-members pay $60 per person and Members pay $40 per person. Membership costs only $75 yearly.

 

Click here to become a member

Dr. Suzi Naguib is a licensed clinical psychologist and trainer with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals with behavioral, emotional, developmental, and learning challenges. She is the founder of Sunfield Institute, where she leads gold-standard professional training for mental health providers. A certified PCIT trainer and independent trainer for the ADOS-2 and ADI-R, she has trained thousands of professionals across the U.S. and internationally. Dr. Naguib also founded Sunfield Center, an evidence-based clinical practice dedicated to advancing mental health awareness and care, and she serves as the clinical director and founder of Sprouted Sage Full Circle Intervention Center, an intensive program for young children with autism.

 

Register
 

Detroit Mercy C-SPHERE Project: Ethical Challenges In Mental Health Practice With Diverse Populations

Celia B. Fisher, Ph.D.

January 23rd, 2026 | 1:00PM to 2:30 PM

This webinar is under the auspices of University of Detroit-Mercy, who are our partners in continuing education. See Official Flyer. What you will gain from this webinar:

  • Recognize and address both the overestimation and underestimation of cultural influences in psychological assessment and treatment planning.
  • Evaluate the cultural relevance of evidence-based practices and ethically adapt interventions to meet the needs of diverse and underserved populations.
  • Analyze and navigate ethical tensions arising from gender and cultural values in trauma-focused therapy.
  • Demonstrate ethical competence and appropriate boundary management when treating clients with religious or spiritual concerns.
  • Apply ethical principles and professional standards to the use of internet-mediated and digital forms of therapy.

Followed by an Interprofessional Seminar led by Steven Huprich Ph.D. 2:45PM - 4:00PM

Learn more

Celia B. Fisher, Ph.D., is the Marie Ward Doty Endowed University Chair in Ethics and Professor of Psychology, and founding Director of the Fordham University Center for Ethics Education. She currently directs the NIDA funded Fordham University HIV/Drug Abuse Prevention Research Ethics Training Institute.

 

Dr. Fisher has over 300 publications and 8 edited volumes on children’s health research and services among diverse racial/ethnic, sexual and gender minority groups in the U.S. and internationally... See complete bio at https://www.fordham.edu/academics/departments/psychology/faculty-and-staff/celia-b-fisher/

REGISTRATION INSTRUCTIONS

 

Upcoming Webinars: 

  • Development of Body Awareness Through The Lifespan with Special Attention to Pain Management
  • Ira Glovinsky, Ph.D. - March 2026
 

The Imagine Center Farm

The Imagine Center Farm for Work Training, Skills Building, and Community Engagement


We are a farm-based work training and skill building center for adults with intellectual, developmental, and other disabilities. We follow a skills-forward, relationship-based model of care grounded in clinical psychology, applied behavior principles, and vocational training. Every service is designed to enhance independence, communication, social connection, and emotional well-being.

About the Farm A scenic 70-acre property in the Irish Hills, featuring:
– Two barns, greenhouse, café/store ("casita"), and workout area
– Horses, donkeys, goats, sheep, ducks, chickens, peacocks, cats, and a golden retriever
– Trails, creek, lake access, orchard (in progress), and crop fields
– A tranquil environment that promotes mental health, physical activity, and nature-based healing

Programs, Services & Contact Information
We offer year-round and seasonal opportunities designed to promote independence, purpose, and community connection.

Daily Work & Skills-Building Activities
Participants engage in structured, meaningful tasks across:
 •  Agriculture and gardening Animal care and barn operations
 •  Culinary activities and kitchen skills
 •  Construction, repair, and tool use
 •  Entrepreneurship and product creation
 •  Recreation & Wellness: Daily activities that support physical health, emotional well-being, and social connection.
 •  Therapeutic & Supportive Services
 •  One-on-one support when needed
 •  Small group instruction
 •  Positive behavior support
 •  Daily living skill coaching
 •  Individualized Plans of Service: Each participant receives a personalized plan created and monitored by clinical
    professionals. Goals target vocational, adaptive, behavioral, and wellness development.
 •  Community Inclusion: Participants gain real-world experience through community outings, partnerships, and
    engagement opportunities.
 •  Transportation is available for eligible participants.

 

Join the Farm!
We are currently hiring and enrolling individuals with developmental differences.

 

Contact Information:
Michael Behen 
Ph: 313-617-6346
Email: mjbehen@theimaginectr.com
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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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Washtenaw Psychology Society | 623 W. Huron St. | Ann Arbor, MI 48103-6712