Stephanie Dutton, Psy.D.
PTSD Psychologist, Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System
Doctorate in Psychology, 2006
When Stephanie Dutton headed to Biloxi, Miss., during summer 2005 for her psychology internship, she was thinking of patients. But while Stephanie was still unpacking, one of the most devastating hurricanes in U.S. history began forming—Hurricane Katrina. Most think of New Orleans when recalling Katrina’s destruction, but Biloxi was among the areas worst hit.
Stephanie’s clinical psychology internship at the Veterans Administration Gulf Coast Health Care System was a chance to put book knowledge to work in the field under expert supervision and more. Her arrival in Biloxi just before Hurricane Katrina would test grace under pressure, and Stephanie passed that test. The medical center’s chief of psychology service reports, “Despite the difficulties, Stephanie is an example of an exceptionally well-trained professional, ready to step up in the most dire circumstances. I applaud Regent for providing that exceptional training.”
Stephanie was honored with a VA Secretary’s Hero Award and recognized by her colleagues with the Erwin L. Shatus Award, given to an outstanding intern in each class. After Stephanie graduated from her internship, she was asked to stay and develop an intensive residential program to treat veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Stephanie has found her calling. “I’ve been given an opportunity I never imagined having at this point in my career. The veterans I work with are amazing individuals who have gone through horrific experiences,” says Stephanie. “We start to help them break down the walls and tell their stories—it can be very gratifying.” Stephanie is an extraordinary woman.
© 2009 Regent University, Virginia Beach, VA | 888.372.1006 | About Regent | Academics | Admissions | Contact Us
