How can the CHARIS research team enhance my training?

As a current third-year student in the PsyD program for Clinical Psychology at Regent University. I have had the privilege of being a team member on the Charis research team for over two years and currently serve as a research coordinator for one of Charis’s current team projects: the Church Cares. Charis is a group of PsyD and PhD students led by Dr. Jennifer Ripley and Dr. Sells. Charis team members have a special interest in integrating faith when working with couples, families, and churches. I was drawn to this group because of its emphasis on addressing the connections between faith and psychology and supporting mental health needs among Christian communities.

Being a part of Charis has blessed me with the opportunity to learn from and be mentored by excellent professors and practicing psychologists, lead psychoeducational trainings, present at research conferences, gain experience in conducting both qualitative and quantitative research, and contribute to article and book publications. As a group, we meet bi-weekly to brainstorm ideas for current research projects, create integrative resources, and assign roles and tasks to address various needs for team projects.

The Charis team has sharpened my skills and challenged me to grow in research knowledge, resource and training development, and clinical application when working with a variety of Christian individuals and communities. I am confident that my involvement in Charis has enhanced my personal and professional development as an emerging clinical psychologist and allowed me to foster connections that will be maintained throughout my future career.

— Sarah Haught, 3rd Year Psy.D. Student