Emily Vanderpool - College of Education (COE)

 

Degree: Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis ('15)
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling ('13), Educational Psychology and Research
Current Title: Licensed Professional Counselor and Behavior Analyst, Germantown Behavioral Solutions

Why did you choose the University of Memphis for your studies?

I grew up in the Memphis area and always felt a tie to The University of Memphis and the symbiotic relationship it holds within our community. Additionally, my mother graduated from The University of Memphis with a Master’s degree in Counseling,which instilled in me an appreciation for that educational path at The UofM.

Once I was ready to apply for graduate programs, I realized that The U of M not only offered a graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling but also in Applied Behavior Analysis, which I was equally interested in pursuing. These graduate degrees have propelled me toward my career path of owning my own mental health group practice, Germantown Behavioral Solutions.  We now have 2 locations in Germantown and East Memphis.

What’s your favorite or meaningful memory from your time here?

How could I ever forget Dr. James and his animated demonstrations of the theories in counseling? Or exploring various ethical dilemmas via group debates in Dr. Zanskas' class? Or Dr. Meindl instilling in us a zest for behaviorism, making the concepts more meaningful as applied to all living things in such practical ways. Those are the sorts of learning experiences that stick with you.

How did your experience at UofM prepare or shape you for the work you do now?

My training and experiences at the U of M have not only made me a better clinician but also a more thorough and critical thinker. I was taught how to examine research through the lens of healthy skepticism and how to think and dialogue like a scientist while also maintaining empathy and honoring the dignity of the clients for whom we care. 

Through various internships that I was granted during my time in graduate school, I was also exposed to therapeutic approaches and client populations who I continue to serve today. I was able to gain invaluable experiences and develop my own personal brand of clinical care.  This has certainly led me to solidify the culture and mission of Germantown Behavioral Solutions, which is to provide ethical, compassionate, and evidence-based care to each client through individually tailored approaches. We now offer psychoeducational evaluations, applied behavior analysis, counseling services, and speech therapy for children and adults.

I've also enjoyed working in various ways with The U of M, whether hosting graduate students through practicum and internship placements, hiring fantastic graduates of the program, being a guest speaker in graduate school classes, or attending various training events hosted by The U of M. I certainly feel the support and am grateful for the continued relationships that GBS has with the faculty members and students at the U of M! Go Tigers Go!

Emily Vanderpool, LPC-MHSP, LBA, BCBA, DBT-LBC™