Strengthening 
Crisis
Response

My professional background brings together clinical psychology, law enforcement, emergency behavioral health, and program development, providing a unique perspective on the challenges professionals and organizations face when responding to behavioral health crises. As a licensed psychologist with a Ph.D. in Clinical-Community Psychology from the University of Alaska Anchorage, I focus on bridging psychological research with practical, real-world application.

 

Having grown up in Alaska, I understand the importance of developing services that reflect the unique cultural, geographic, and operational needs of urban, rural, and remote communities. My career began with eight and a half years as a police officer with the Anchorage Police Department, where I gained firsthand experience responding to behavioral health emergencies, traumatic events, and complex community needs. I later transitioned into behavioral health, working as a mental health clinician in inpatient psychiatric settings serving adolescents and adults, as well as in psychiatric emergency services. My clinical experience also includes working with Veterans through the Department of Veterans Affairs, providing evidence-based psychological interventions, trauma-focused treatment, and integrated behavioral health services.

 

Building on these experiences, I helped develop the Anchorage Fire Department's Mobile Crisis Team and Mobile Integrated Health Program. I continue to serve as the Program Manager for Mobile Integrated Health and Clinical Supervisor for the Mobile Crisis Team, overseeing clinical services, program development, interdisciplinary collaboration, and workforce training.

 

In addition to my clinical and leadership roles, I serve as an adjunct professor at the University of Alaska Anchorage and have developed and delivered professional trainings throughout Alaska. My research has focused on trauma, resilience, and the mental health of first responders, further informing my approach to training and consultation.

Through Pierce Psychological Services, I combine clinical expertise, research, and extensive frontline experience to help organizations strengthen crisis response, develop effective behavioral health programs, and build practical skills that translate into everyday practice. My approach emphasizes evidence-based strategies, cultural responsiveness, and solutions tailored to the resources and realities of the communities being served.