Today we’d like to introduce you to Brianna Allen.
Hi Brianna, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I have always had a love for learning, and I remember being consumed by books starting at a very young age. It was not until I took a psychology class in high school, though, that I discovered my interest in the field of psychology. That initial spark led me to explore various areas of psychology throughout my undergraduate studies, including social, cognitive, educational, and developmental psychology to name a few. When I took my first clinical psychology class at my undergraduate institution, I knew that I had found a field of study that I was passionate about.
I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, along with a minor in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, from the University of Connecticut. From there, I went on to earn a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Hartford, and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Georgia Southern University. Throughout my research, academics, and clinical training, I have been deeply committed to serving, supporting, and advocating for marginalized and oppressed populations.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The opportunity to pursue higher education is a privilege that is not afforded to everyone. I am so incredibly grateful for the support that I have had along the way, as it has not been easy to get to where I am. One of the biggest barriers that I faced throughout my clinical training and practice has been related to systemic issues within the field of psychology that contribute to the ongoing oppression of marginalized individuals who are seeking to enter this field, or who have already entered this field. Additionally, as a Black and Indigenous woman in a predominantly White field, there are additional barriers that I have faced, and continue to face, as I engage in my clinical practice focused on serving and supporting oppressed populations. Lastly, the lack of education and training related to entrepreneurship within the field of psychology made it particularly challenging as I navigated my first year of self-employment in the private practice space. However, as I mentioned previously, the unwavering love and support that I have received from family, friends, and mentors over the years have played a meaningful role in helping me pursue and achieve my goals.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Health Service Psychologist (HSP) in North Carolina and Florida, and I specialize in treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and related disorders (e.g., trichotillomania/hair-pulling, excoriation/skin-picking), anxiety disorders, tics & Tourette Disorder, and depression. I also have specialized training in, and a passion for working with, LGBTQ+ concerns and college populations. What sets me apart from others is my approach to therapy and the advocacy work that I due on behalf of my clients. I value a trusting and collaborative relationship as I view this as an essential component of therapy. I approach each session from a place of warmth and appreciation for the client’s lived experience, and I focus on helping clients move toward flourishing. I also strive to deliver multiculturally competent and affirming services.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
One of the best things that I did when I first started my private practice was ask for help ! I leaned on my professional and social supports when needed, and I was intentional in seeking mentorship. Even now, while I am more seasoned in my entrepreneurial role, I am still quick to ask for help and guidance as I value the knowledge that those who have come before me possess. I would also encourage anyone who is just starting out to lift as they climb. As you become more comfortable and confident in your professional identity, be sure to help other’s along the way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.drbriannaallen.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drbriannaallen/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551763574733
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianna-allen-psy-d
