Postdoctoral Fellowship Built Foundation For A Philadelphia Psychologist
Dr. Brittany Lyman joined the Ruttenberg Autism Center in 2014. In her role as a psychologist and a lead clinician, she is responsible for developing and providing evaluation and treatment services offered at the Ruttenberg Autism Center. She also lends her expertise to the clinical programs at the Center for Autism in Philadelphia. Opening in the spring of 2015, the Ruttenberg Autism Center will provide high quality, comprehensive autism evaluation, and treatment services to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families across the lifespan. The Ruttenberg Autism Center will be located in Blue Bell, Pa. and is owned and operated by the Center for Autism in Philadelphia.
Where did you get your degree?
"I received my Masters of Science degree in Psychology from Drexel University and earned my Doctorate of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree in Clinical Psychology from LaSalle University."
Can you describe your duties as a psychologist?
"My focus and expertise is working with children, adolescents and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). I complete diagnostic evaluations and assessments, provide therapy services, and supervise interns and other staff working with clients and families. I also serve as an advocate on behalf of people with autism and take great pride in helping to educate the public about ASD. My goal is to ensure that my clients feel supported and accepted in the community."
How has education prepared you for your career in psychology and social sciences?
"My clinical experience from my internship and postdoctoral fellowship built a foundation for my career, as it was in those experiences that I learned how to apply what I learned in class and in textbooks to real life. I've also been fortunate to work with many autism experts in various disciplines throughout my training. Through those mentors, I was able to learn about different facets of the field and have incorporated those experiences into my daily practice. Ultimately, some of my greatest education has come directly from individuals living with autism and their families."
What advice would you give someone who is pursuing a career in psychology?
"Spend time working alongside psychology professionals to find your passion within the psychology field. Networking and mentoring are extremely important and the earlier you can benefit from others, the more successful you will be. Once you have started practicing, it is critical to remember that while you are an expert in psychology, the families you work with are experts on their children. Listen to their concerns and work with them to develop the best and most effective plan for their child."
Christina Thompson is a freelance writer living in Philadelphia. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.