Brooke Farrell
Program: Master of Arts in School and Clinical Child Psychology
Expected year of graduation: 2024 (MA) and 2028 (PhD)
What led you to apply to APHD at OISE?
I applied to APHD at OISE because the SCCP program was a match for both my clinical and research interests. My long-term goal has been to register and work as a School and Clinical Child Psychologist, and this program provides the foundation for this career trajectory. I was also drawn to conducting research in the CARE lab in order to work with my supervisor, Dr. Chloe Hamza, a leading expert in the field of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) research. Understanding NSSI recovery has always been a key research interest of mine, and working in the CARE lab has allowed me to conduct research that I am very passionate and curious about!
What was your past experience like?
I entered the SCCP program directly after my undergraduate degree at the University of Guelph, so my experience was mainly obtained through my roles within the university. Some of my roles included various research assistantships, peer-mentoring, and leading guided meditations for the neuroscience student association mental health week events. Outside of school, I obtained experience in a psychology clinic under the supervision of two neuropsychologists. I also provided one-on-one support for children with various exceptionalities as an integration camp counselor.
Are there any past accomplishments that you would like to highlight?
I recently presented my Master’s thesis findings at the International Society for the Study of Self Injury’s (ISSS) virtual conference this summer in Vienna, Austria, where I gave a 15-minute oral presentation. I also recently published my undergraduate honors thesis regarding NSSI recovery as well as a research project exploring memory in self-guided learning!
What is one thing you like most about your experience so far at OISE?
So far, my favourite experience in my program has been my school psychology practicum within the TDSB! I have enjoyed working with so many different children to conduct psychoeducational assessments, and have loved having this hands-on real-world experience.
What is your favourite thing about Toronto?
My favourite aspect of living in Toronto so far has been the experience of living in a big city. I grew up in a very small town and completed my undergraduate degree in a rural area as well, so this has been a big transition that has allowed me to grow in so many ways!
What does your “weekend” typically look like?
Depending on my workload, I try to reserve my weekends for self-care and connecting with family and friends. I have learned the importance of “filling my cup” outside of academics in order to live a balanced life and reduce burn out in such a busy program. When I am in the city on weekends, I love to go for walks through Trinity Bellwoods Park and try out new restaurants in my area. Sometimes I also try to get out of the city on the weekends and head up north to my cottage in Muskoka where I enjoy many outdoor activities!
What are some of your hobbies & interests?
A main hobby of mine is practicing Yoga. I love the physical and mental benefits of a daily yoga practice and challenging myself. I also play the guitar and love to do water sports in the summer, such as wake surfing!
What is your favourite type of cuisine?
Anything vegan!
Where do you see yourself after you achieve your degree from APHD?
After completing my PhD, I see myself working in clinical practice providing psychological services to children and adolescents. My specific clinical interests are in working with youth with internalizing disorders. I am excited to see where this program and career path takes me, as there are so many possibilities and opportunities to work in different environments and with different populations! I can also see myself immersed in the scientist-practitioner model, continuing to contribute to research that meaningfully informs resilience and coping in adolescents and emerging adults.
