Beyond Surviving: Thriving in the Valley – A Psychology in the Valley Seminar Series Event

The Psychology in the Valley Seminar Committee is excited to present “Beyond Surviving: Thriving in the Valley” as part of their Psychology in the Valley Seminar Series. This event features three distinguished speakers who will offer strategies for staying connected, engaged, and mentally well as we navigate through post-election and holiday seasons—both known to bring unique stressors. Our speakers will provide evidence-based tools to help you move beyond simply managing stress to truly thriving.

Featured Speakers:
Natalie Kerr, Ph.D. Professor of Psychology, James Madison University
Dr. Kerr specializes in social connection and loneliness and is the co-author of Our New Social Life: Science-Backed Strategies for Creating Meaningful Connection. Her research, published in respected journals, and her community programs offer valuable insights for cultivating social connections in today’s world.

Cheree Hammond, Ph.D. Professor of Counseling, Eastern Mennonite University
Dr. Hammond’s expertise in Buddhist psychology, mindfulness, and socially just counseling practices brings a contemplative perspective to mental health. Certified in Mindfulness and Psychotherapy, she blends evidence-based mindfulness techniques with her rich background in counseling to help foster resilience and compassion.

Hannah Dodson Graduate Student, Eastern Mennonite University
Hannah’s research focuses on the mental health of emerging adults. She explores the role of social support and emotional vulnerability, especially in women, in fostering flourishing. Her findings reveal how these factors may differently impact young adults and provide a foundation for promoting well-being within this demographic.

Stay in the loop! Follow us on social media to get the latest updates about Psychology in the Valley and be the first to hear about future events.

Instagram and Threads: @psychologyinthevalley