Early Career Specialists

• Tell us a bit about yourself. 

I’m Alana, from Chicago, Illinois. I teach in the PsyD department at Adler University and operate my private practice. I host a weekly podcast called Dr. Atchison Speaks, which has an accompanying blog (check out my website for both!). When I’m not working, I’m enjoying live music, art, and dancing. 

• What motivated you to seek board certification as an early career psychologist (ECP)?

During my pre-doctoral internship, an African American woman spoke to my cohort about her experience achieving board-certification. Seeing someone who looks like me discuss her accomplishments and achievements inspired me to pursue board certification. 

• What advice would you give to an ECP who is on the fence about getting board certification? 

Find your why. Having some connection to your purpose and reason(s) for pursuing board certification helps withstand some of the challenges that might come with applying. It also helps make the process more enjoyable and rewarding.  

• How has board certification benefited your professional development and/or professional growth to date?

First- I love learning, so being involved in the organization and serving on exam committees helps me stay current and informed of the many aspects of clinical psychology. Second, being board certified helps me feel much more confident and assured in my clinical skills and professional judgment. Third, and most important, I’ve met some amazing people throughout this organization and made some great friends! In fact, one of my ABCP colleagues connected me with someone who I now consider a close friend!

• How did you get involved at ABPP? 

After attaining board-certification, I was invited to join an exam committee, which I really enjoyed! I volunteered on a few committees before applying for the Northeast Regional Director role, which I’ve been serving since 2022. This role has led me to other opportunities within the specialty board as well (i.e., serving on ad-hoc committees, mentorship, and other leadership opportunities). 

• As an ABPP specialist, tell us about your work to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in your specialty. 

In 2023, I proudly served on a diversity subcommittee of the specialty that sponsored the Association of Black Psychologists (ABPsi) 2023 conference.

• What is one piece of advice that you’ve found helpful as an ECP? 

Do what you love. After obtaining my license, I met with my mentor to discuss my uncertainty about what to do next. Her response was simple: do what you love. She elaborated by reminding me of all I sacrificed to earn my degree and licensure, and how I owe it to myself to only do the work that I love to do. I now only do the work that I love, which feels very fulfilling.