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Leadership

Board of Directors

Chair

Dr. Janet L. Cummings, Psy.D.

Dr. Janet Cummings, Psy. D., is the daughter of Drs. Nicholas and Dorothy Cummings, an internationally-recognized psychologist and a clinical social worker. Determined not to be a mental health professional...

Dr. Janet Cummings, Psy. D., is the daughter of Drs. Nicholas and Dorothy Cummings, an internationally-recognized psychologist and a clinical social worker. Determined not to be a mental health professional, she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Pre-med (with a minor in Genetics/Molecular Biology) and Linguistics (with a Classical Greek minor). She went on to earn a Master’s Degree in Linguistics, with a Psycholinguistics emphasis, before deciding to earn a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the School of Professional Psychology at Wright State University, which she completed in 1992. During her Bachelor’s and Master’s studies, Janet owned and operated a sewing business and taught English as a Second Language.While at the School of Professional Psychology, Janet participated in an experimental program aimed at preparing students for the possibility of prescription privileges for psychologists. In this experimental program, she took the same Pharmacology and Psychopharmacology classes as students in Wright State University’s medical school. Because of her Pre-med background, she excelled in her Pharmacology studies, as well as in Biological Psychology and Neuranatomy/Neurology.

While at Wright State University, Janet was awarded the university president’s annual President’s Commendation, the first to be earned by a graduate student in psychology. In 2007, she was named Wright State University’s Alumna of the Year.

Janet completed her internship and post-doctoral residency at Arizona Biodyne, and remained as a staff psychologist there for several years. With supervision from some top Biodyne psychotherapists, she became a master psychotherapist and expert in the Biodyne Model. She has continued to utilize the Biodyne Model exclusively in her private practice and other work settings.

Janet has supervised over 60 mental health practitioners, many of whom were involved in faith-based counseling. Under her direction, the faith-based counseling center where she functioned as a supervisor earned a national reputation for excellence in counseling.

In 2010, Janet moved from Scottsdale, Arizona to Reno, Nevada in order to be close to the headquarters of The Nicholas & Dorothy Cummings Foundation, which she has served as its President since its inception in 1995. Under Janet’s direction, The Nicholas & Dorothy Cummings Foundation has sponsored many projects aimed at furthering the integration of behavioral health into primary care medicine, including The Cummings Psyche Award (the premier scientific award in the mental health field, with a $50,000 prize) and the launching of the first Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) Program at Arizona State University.

Janet is the author of over two dozen journal articles and book chapters, and she has co-authored or co-edited ten books with her father. She served as adjunct professor at both the University of Nevada, Reno and The Forest Institute of Professional Psychology in Springfield, MO. She was Co-founding Associate Director of the Doctor of Behavioral Health Program at Arizona State University, and served as a Professor and Co-founding Sponsor until 2014 when she decided to move the DBH Program to a different venue. She taught Pathophysiology and Psychopharmacology for the ASU DBH Program, where she received outstanding student ratings and was considered a favorite Professor.

Janet resides in Reno with her two children, Mary and Kent. Of the many jobs that Janet has held, she considers motherhood to be the most important and the most rewarding.

  • Psy.D., Wright State University
  • Specialties: Specialties: Pathophysiology, Psychopharmacology, Neuropathophysiology, Biodyne Model

Publications

  • Cucciare, M., Cummings, J.L., Runyan, T., Cummings, N.A., & O’Donohue, W.T. (Eds.) (2005). Integrated behavioral healthcare: A guide to effective intervention. Amherst, NY: Humanity Books (Prometheus Books Publishers).
  • Cummings, J.L. (2013). Psychopharmcology overview (5th Edition). Reno, NV: The Nicholas & Dorothy Cummings Foundation. [1st Edition, 2001].
  • Cummings, J.L. (2012). Clinical medicine for psychologists (6th Edition). Reno, NV: The Nicholas & Dorothy Cummings Foundation. [1st Edition, 1996].
  • Cummings, J.L. (2006). Suicidal patients: The ultimate challenge for master psychotherapists. In W.T. O’Donohue, N.A. Cummings, & J.L. Cummings (Eds.). Clinical strategies for becoming a master psychotherapist. San Diego, CA: Elsevier.
  • Cummings, J.L. (2005). Introduction to psychopharmacology. In M. Cucciare, J.L. Cummings, T. Runyan, N.A. Cummings, & W.T. O’Donohue (Eds.). Integrated behavioral healthcare: A guide to effective intervention.
  • Cummings, J.L. (2005). Medical psychology overview. In M. Cucciare, J.L. Cummings, T. Runyan, N.A. Cummings, & W.T. O’Donohue (Eds.). Integrated behavioral healthcare: A guide to effective intervention.
  • Cummings, J.L. (2005). Identification and treatment of substance abuse in primary care settings. In W.T. O’Donohue, M.R. Byrd, N.A. Cummings, & D.A. Henderson (Eds.). Behavioral integrative care: Treatments that work in the primary care setting. New York, NY: Brunner-Routledge.
  • Cummings, J.L. (2002). Psychopharmacology and medical cost offset. In N.A. Cummings, W.T. O’Donohue, & K.E. Ferguson (Eds.). The impact of medical cost offset on practice: Making it work for you. Reno, NV: Context Press.
  • Cummings, J.L. (2002). Psychopharmacology and medical cost offset. In N.A. Cummings, W.T. O’Donohue, & K.E. Ferguson (Eds.). The impact of medical cost offset on practice and research: Making it work for you. Reno, NV: Context Press.
  • Cummings, J.L. (2002). Alternatives to psychotherapy. In Hersen, M., & Sledge, W. (Eds.) Encyclopedia of psychotherapy. New York, NY: Academic Press.
  • Cummings, J.L. (1992). Preventing fetal alcohol syndrome. Health Journal, Spring 1992.
  • Cummings, J.L. (1996). Managing suicidal patients: The ultimate test in overcoming outmoded attitudes. In N.A. Cummings, M.S. Pallak, & J.L. Cummings (Eds.). Surviving the demise of solo practice: Mental health practitioners prospering in the era of managed care. Madison, CT: Psychosocial Press.
  • Cummings, J.L. (1996). The new undergraduate education required of the future prescribing behavioral healthcare practitioner. In N.A. Cummings, M.S. Pallak, & J.L. Cummings (Eds.). Surviving the demise of solo practice: Mental health practitioners prospering in the era of managed care. Madison, CT: Psychosocial Press.
  • Cummings, J.L. (1998). Hypnosis: A practical application. Psychological Hypnosis, 7(2).
  • Cummings, J.L. & Cummings, N.A. (2009). The proliferation of faith-based counseling: Bboming while psychotherapy declines. In N.A. Cummings, W.T. O’Donohue, & J.L. Cummings (Eds.). Psychology’s war on religion. Phoenix, AZ: Zeig, Tucker & Theisen.
  • Cummings, J.L. & Cummings, N.A. (2008). Holistic and alternative medicine as adjunctive to psychotherapy. In W.T. O’Donohue & N.A. Cummings (Eds.). Evidence-based adjunctive treatments. San Diego, CA: Elsevier.
  • Cummings, J.L. & Cummings, N.A. (1997). Holistic and alternative medicine: Separating the wheat from the chaff. In N.A. Cummings, J.L. Cummings, & J. Johnson (Eds.). Behavioral health in primary care: A guide for clinical integration. Madison, CT: Psychosocial Press.
  • Cummings, N.A. & Cummings, J.L. (2013). Refocused psychotherapy as the first line intervention in behavioral health. New York, NY: Routledge. [Translated into Mandarin, 2014, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Press.]
  • Cummings, N.A. & Cummings, J.L. (2009). Psychology’s war on protestants is a one size fits all. In N.A. Cummings, W.T. O’Donohue, & J.L. Cummings (Eds.). Psychology’s war on religion. Phoenix, AZ: Zeig, Tucker & Theisen.
  • Cummings, N.A. & Cummings, J.L. (2009). Psychology and religion: A brief history of a paradoxical relationship. In N.A. Cummings, W.T. O’Donohue, & J.L. Cummings (Eds.). Psychology’s war on religion. Phoenix, AZ: Zeig, Tucker & Theisen.
  • Cummings, N.A. & Cummings, J.L. (2008). Psychoeducation in conjunction with psychotherapy practice. In W.T. O’Donohue & N.A. Cummings (Eds.). Evidence-based adjunctive treatments. San Diego, CA: Elsevier.
  • Cummings, N.A. & Cummings, J.L. (2006). Enhancing psychotherapy through appropriate entry points. In W.T. O’Donohue, N.A. Cummings, & J.L. Cummings (Eds.). Clinical strategies for becoming a master psychotherapist. San Diego, CA: Elsevier.
  • Cummings, N.A. & Cummings, J.L. (2004). Presenting problems: Different tubs from different drugs. In N.A. Cummings, M. Duckworth, W.T. O’Donohue, & K.E. Ferguson (Eds.). Early detection and treatment of substance abuse within integrated primary care. Reno, NV: Context Press.
  • Cummings, N.A. & Cummings, J.L. (2004). Substance abuse treatment within primary care: Frontline detection and intervention. In N.A. Cummings, M. Duckworth, W.T. O’Donohue & K.E. Ferguson (Eds.). Early detection and treatment of substance abuse within integrated primary care. Reno, NV: Context Press.
  • Cummings, N.A. & Cummings, J.L. (2004). Who is the substance abuser? In N.A. Cummings, M. Duckworth, W.T. O’Donohue, & K.E. Ferguson (Eds.). Early detection and treatment of substance abuse within integrated primary care. Reno, NV: Context Press.
  • Cummings, N.A. & Cummings, J.L. (2000). The essence of psychotherapy: Reinventing the art in the era of data. New York, NY: Academic Press.
  • Cummings, N.A. & Cummings, J.L. (2000). The first session with substance abusers. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.
  • Cummings, N.A., Cummings, J.L., & Johnson, J. (Eds.) (1997). Behavioral health in primary care: A guide for clinical integration. Madison, CT: Psychosocial Press.
  • Cummings, N.A. & Cummings, J.L. (1997). The future behavioral health practitioner: The efficacy of targeted protocols. In N.A. Cummings, J.L. Cummings, and J. Johnson (Eds.). Behavioral health in primary care: A guide for clinical integration. Madison, CT: Psychosocial Press.
  • Cummings, N.A., Pallak, M.S., & Cummings. J.L. (Eds.) (1996). Surviving the demise of solo practice: Mental Health practitioners prospering in the era of managed care. Madison, CT: Psychosocial Press.
  • Cummings, N.A., O’Donohue, W.T. & Cummings, J.L. (Eds.) (2009). Psychology’s war on religion. Phoenix, AZ: Zeig, Tucker & Theisen.
  • Lago, R., O’Donohue, W.T., Hall, S., Kaplan, A., Wood, R., Cummings, J.L., Cummings, N.A., & Shaffer, I. (2003). Preliminary results from the Hawaii Integrated Healthcare Project II. In N.A. Cummings, W.T. O’Donohue, & K.E. Ferguson (Eds.). Behavioral health as primary care: Beyond efficacy to effectiveness. Reno, NV: Context Press.
  • O’Donahue, W.T., Cummings, N.A., & Cummings, J.L. (Eds.) (2006). Clinical strategies for becoming a master psychotherapist. San Diego, CA: Elsevier.
  • O’Donohue, W.T. Cummings, N.A., & Cummings, J.L. (Eds.) (2006). The art of science and psychotherapy. In W.T. O’Donohue, N.A. Cummings, & J.L. Cummings (Eds.). Clinical strategies for becoming a master psychotherapist. San Diego, CA: Elsevier.
  • Thomas, J.L. & Cummings, J.L. (Eds.) (2000). The collected papers of Nicholas A. Cummings: The value of psychological treatment (Vol. 1). Redding, CT: Zeig, Tucker, & Co.
  • Thomas, J.L., Cummings, J.L., & O’Donohue, W.T. (2002). The collected papers of Nicholas A. Cummings (Vol. 2). Redding, CT: Zeig, Tucker, & Co.
Board of Directors Member

Dr. Larry Ford, DBH

Dr. Larry Ford received his Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science and Ethics from Mid-America Christian University in Moore, Oklahoma, and a Bachelor of Science from Oklahoma State University.

Dr. Larry Ford received his Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science and Ethics from Mid-America Christian University in Moore, Oklahoma, and a Bachelor of Science from Oklahoma State University. Dr. Ford received his Masters in Counseling with an emphasis in Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma, and he received his Doctorate in Behavioral Health from Arizona State University.

Inspired by the volumes of studies Dr. Ford completed on how infinitely the psyche affects the body, Dr. Ford founded Hands to Guide You as he fulfilled his doctoral studies in November 2011.

Dr. Ford centers his practice on the certainty that there is no physical health without mental health, and correspondingly Dr. Ford has advanced Hands to Guide You as a preeminent leader in Integrated Care and Population Health. Hands to Guide You, with Dr. Ford at the helm, enjoys distinction for engendering unparalleled patient rehabilitation and recovery rates, and expansive patient health literacy.

Providing and teaching the necessity of integrated care, and the entrenched correlation between emotional well-being and physical health have become Dr. Ford’s trademarks. Hence, Dr. Ford’s esteemed reputation in integrating behavioral and medical health has yielded him requests from all over the nation to serve as a keynote speaker imparting erudition, expertise, and patient success stories. Dr. Ford has spoken and continues to receive invitations to lecture before hundreds of fellow clinicians and additional medical and behavioral health professionals including engagements at:

  • Cummings Graduate Institute 2015 and 2016 fall conferences in Phoenix, Arizona
  • The Clinton Foundation
  • The Oklahoma Department of Human Services
  • The September 2014 Behavioral Health Conference in San Antonio, Texas sponsored by the National Alliance of Professional Psychology Providers

Dr. Ford equally raises awareness on quality behavioral health care in his podcasts and in radio broadcasts including his show called Holistic Health, which has grown in audience share by 8% since Dr. Ford began hosting the program in October 2016.

Since September 2014, Dr. Ford has been a regular guest speaker on the Los Angeles, California radio show, Parenting Through the Radio, and he instills information on the emotional aspects of health to Dallas, Texas listeners of Life Choice Radio on the Fish Bowl Radio Network. Reflection of Dr. Ford’s commitment to physical health through advanced behavioral health is also accessible in an interview of Dr. Ford available on You Tube..

Dr. Ford’s expertise on the impact of chronic diseases such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, depression, and anxiety on physical health have been published in peer review articles at Arizona State University in October 2014.

Dr. Ford enjoys eminent respect from both his patients and contemporaries as an authority on decreasing excessive health care costs in the state of Oklahoma, which therein has significantly reduced health insurance coverage denial due in great part to Dr. Ford’s accomplishments in holistic treatments. Dr. Ford’s integrated treatment has also decreased hospital re-admission by 30% in southwest Oklahoma City alone.

It is for Dr. Ford’s principal leadership over the compassionate interdisciplinary treatment team at Hands to Guide You, that epitomizes skilled behavioral health services in Oklahoma, and numerous other notable achievements that the Cummings Graduate Institute honored Dr. Ford with the prestigious Biodyne Life Change Award in October 2016.

  • DBH, Arizona State University
  • Specialties: Biodyne Model, Entrepreneurship
Member

Brett Sabatini

Brett Sabatini has extensive background as an auditor as a private accountant at a firm he opened in 2004. As the former President of Sabatini and Associates LTD, Mr. Sabatini grew his professional knowledge and experience in accounting and finance.

Brett Sabatini has extensive background as an auditor as a private accountant at a firm he opened in 2004. As the former President of Sabatini and Associates LTD, Mr. Sabatini grew his professional knowledge and experience in accounting and finance. As a Board Member, he shares his valuable experience in finance and accounting and knowledge of tax laws for non-profit institutions.

Member

Mary Denny

Administrative Staff

Chief Executive Officer and Chief Academic Officer

Dr. Cara English, DBH

Dr. Cara English, DBH is the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Academic Officer of Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies (CGI) and Founder of Terra’s Tribe, a maternal mental health advocacy organization in Phoenix, Arizona.

Dr. Cara English, DBH is the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Academic Officer of Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies (CGI) and Founder of Terra’s Tribe, a maternal mental health advocacy organization in Phoenix, Arizona. Dr. English spearheaded a perinatal behavioral health integration project at Willow Birth Center from 2016 to 2020 that received international acclaim through the publication of outcomes in the International Journal of Integrated Care. Dr. English served as Vice-President of the Postpartum Support International – Arizona Chapter Founding Board of Directors and co-chaired the Education and Legislative Advocacy Committees. She currently serves on the Maternal Mortality Review Program and the Maternal Health Taskforce for the State of Arizona. She served as one of three Arizonan 2020 Mom Nonprofit Policy Fellows in 2021. For her work to establish Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies, Cara was awarded the Psyche Award from the Nicholas & Dorothy Cummings Foundation in 2018 and is more recently the recipient of the 2022 Sierra Tucson Compassion Recognition for her work to improve perinatal mental health integration in Arizona.

Doctor of Behavioral Health, Arizona State University

Chief Operating Officer & Interim Registrar

Amanda Harrison

Amanda Harrison, MEd, is the Institute’s Chief Operating Officer and Interim Registrar. She leads the institution’a Human Resources, Finance, Policy and Compliance, Registrar, and IT Departments.

Amanda Harrison, MEd, is the Institute’s Chief Operating Officer and Interim Registrar. She leads the institution’a Human Resources, Finance, Policy and Compliance, Registrar, and IT Departments. Amanda is also responsible for overseeing educational accreditation and state licensure for the institution.
Sr. Director of the Electronic Campus

Lori Christianson

Lori Christianson, MS.Ed, is the Sr. Director of the Electronic Campus at CGI. She designs the structure of the courses you will find in the online learning environment.

Lori Christianson, MS.Ed, is the Sr. Director of the Electronic Campus at CGI. She designs the structure of the courses you will find in the online learning environment. She will be your primary point of contact when technical support is needed to navigate an online course or activity. Lori is also the Institute’s librarian and is the person to talk to about textbooks, informational resources, copyright compliance, and permissions.
Sr. Director of Marketing

Melissa McGurgan

Melissa McGurgan, MFA, is the Sr. Director of Marketing for CGI. Melissa leads the institution’s marketing, communication, and public relation efforts.

Melissa McGurgan, MFA, is the Sr. Director of Marketing for CGI. Melissa leads the institution’s marketing, communication, and public relation efforts.
Director of Admissions

Cece Maez

Cece Maez, MEd is one of the first voices a future student will hear on the phone at Cummings Graduate Institute as the Director of Admissions. Cece’s focus is to guide students through the admissions process into degree seeking academic programs and non-degree study.

Cece Maez, MEd is one of the first voices a future student will hear on the phone at Cummings Graduate Institute as the Director of Admissions. Cece’s focus is to guide students through the admissions process into degree seeking academic programs and non-degree study.
Director of the DBH Program

Dr. U. Grant Baldwin, Jr., DBH

Dr. U. Grant Baldwin, Jr., is the Director of the DBH Program at Cummings Graduate Institute of Behavioral Studies and an Adjunct Professor/Subject Matter Expert at The Morehouse School of Medicine.

Dr. U. Grant Baldwin, Jr., is the Director of the DBH Program at Cummings Graduate Institute of Behavioral Studies and an Adjunct Professor/Subject Matter Expert at The Morehouse School of Medicine. He is the Chief Operating Officer of Imani Behavioral Health located in Nashville/Clarksville TN. He is also a former Research Associate with the Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He provides consultation/training to several primary care executives in primary care practices throughout the country.

Dr. Baldwin has over 15 years of experience in healthcare management Medicaid Medicare government program administration organizational transformation and innovations. He received his Doctorate in Behavioral (DBH) from the College of Health Solutions at Arizona State University in 2016. In 2019, he graduated from the highly competitive Johnson and Johnson Executive Health Care Program at the University of California -Los Angeles. Dr. Baldwin is also a healthcare researcher and the Founding Chairman of the American Association of Doctors of Behavioral Health. Dr. Baldwin’s passion is integrated healthcare, and healthcare system redesign to reduce healthcare costs and health equity for vulnerable populations. One fun fact about Dr. Baldwin is: He is a singer and songwriter.

  • Doctor of Behavioral Health, Arizona State University
  • Specialties: Healthcare management, integrated healthcare, policies
Sr. Coordinator of the Electronic Campus & Faculty Associate

Dr. Jason Blair, Ed.D.

Dr. Blair is the Senior eLearning Developer and Faculty Associate. He works to ensure that all courses are functional and user-friendly within CGI’s learning management system.

Dr. Blair is the Senior eLearning Developer and Faculty Associate. He works to ensure that all courses are functional and user-friendly within CGI’s learning management system. Dr. Blair is also CGI’s Writing Coach and point of contact at the Writing Center.

  • Doctor of Education in Education Administration, University of Phoenix
  • Specialties: Scholarly Writing
  • Programs: Doctor of Behavioral Health
Sr. Operations Coordinator

Denice Lange

Denice Lange is the Senior Operations Coordinator for CGI. She supports the Director of Operations in all day-to-day functions of the Finance, Human Resources, and Policy and Compliance Departments.

Denice Lange is the Senior Operations Coordinator for CGI. She supports the Director of Operations in all day-to-day functions of the Finance, Human Resources, and Policy and Compliance Departments. Additionally, she oversees operations of the administrative office.
Admission Coordinator

Karrie Miller

Karrie Miller, is the Admissions Coordinator at CGI. She supports the admission department and staff by communicating with incoming leads and applicants.

Karrie Miller, is the Admissions Coordinator at CGI. She supports the admission department and staff by communicating with incoming leads and applicants. In addition, she ensures all applicant documentation and records are collected and approved for the admission process. Outside of CGI Karrie works as a professional musician. She loves spending time with her family, taking part in the newest coffee fad, and watching movies.

Marketing Coordinator

Jaime Mendoza

Jaime Mendoza, is the Marketing Coordinator for CGI. Jaime provides support to the institution’s marketing, communication, and public relation efforts.

Jaime Mendoza, is the Marketing Coordinator for CGI. Jaime provides support to the institution’s marketing, communication, and public relation efforts.

Testimonials

“As a member of the AAPI community, I’m very familiar with the barriers to mental health services and the need to break through the glass wall of cultural stigma that prevents many from receiving potentially life–saving treatment. I was the only Asian American person in my master’s cohort, the only Asian American person in many of my clinical work settings, the only Asian American person to walk into many of the professional settings that I pushed myself to show up to. In my current practice, I’m constantly reminded by my patients of how difficult it is to find an Asian American mental health provider, though this reminder constantly informs me that more needs to be done for my community. Day after day, I read stories of Asian American people who die by suicide as a consequence of our culture’s avoidance of mental health topics. As a DBH, my biggest goal is to use my expertise in whole–person care to amplify the conversation around mental health and help my community understand that mental healthcare is not a privilege that we are not entitled to, it is a crucial part of our healthcare that will manifest differently in us than what many Western psychology or psychiatry textbooks will describe, and that our unique experience of mental health issues are valid, important, and is time to be part of the larger conversation.”

Willam Chum, LMHCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - September 16, 2022

“The DBH represents something that I've always embraced in my professional career. And that's collaboration and working across a lot of different disciplines to make sure you’re delivering the best care for the patient. Everything is about being patient centered about finding innovative ways and creative ways to collaborate with other professionals.”

CDR Sean K. Bennett, LCSW, MSWAC, BCDDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - October 10, 2023

“This program will change how you present to the world, not just as a professional but as an individual. Understand this is work but the work is worth it and the journey is undeniably transformative. If you are seeking a doctorate for the title, this is not the program for you. If you are seeking a doctorate to interrupt and disrupt the course of healthcare, then this is the program for you. You won’t find a more supportive program with professors who are dedicated to your success and your education. This program is not about the regurgitation of information. It is about the appropriate applied application of knowledge and information to push forward and become an advocate for equitable and quality care for all.”

Brandy K. Biglow LMHC, CCTP, QSDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - February 5, 2024

“The Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) program has definitely transformed my understanding of behavioral health. Understanding the links between physical and mental health has taught how to make better treatment decisions. The DBH program has also given me insights that otherwise would not be possible and allows me to view individuals through a lens that I was previously ignorant of. This program has helped me grow into a more confident individual, provider, and parent.”

Cory H. Cannady, BCBA, LBADBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - March 13, 2024

“The DBH program has been a pivotal turning point in my understanding and application of behavioral health principles. Recently, the concept of ‘whole person health’ has gained widespread attention in healthcare circles, becoming somewhat of a buzzword. Like many others, I embraced this term, believing in my capacity to deliver comprehensive care.

Prior to my engagement with the program, my approach, albeit well-intentioned, lacked an appreciation for the intricate interplay between physical and mental health. More importantly, the role of unmet social needs as a catalyst for health disparities was a dimension I had not fully integrated into my practice. The DBH program illuminated these connections, offering me a robust framework to understand and address the multifaceted needs of individuals, especially within marginalized communities.

Additionally, the confidence I have gained through the DBH program extends beyond theoretical knowledge. My role as a connector and advocate for these individuals has become more pronounced, driven by a deep-seated commitment to fostering accessibility, equity, and comprehensiveness in care.”

Michelle Stroebel MA, NCC, LCMHC, NADD-CCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - June 12, 2024

“I have worked in behavioral health for the entirety of my professional career starting with college internships up to my current role as Deputy Executive Commissioner of Behavioral Health for the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. While I have years of experience in the field, the DBH program at Cummings has framed my perspective as leveraging therapy as a first line of intervention. As a public servant, much of the work I do is usually in the aftermath of crises or when the system is being forced to respond to a service gap. However, the DBH program takes a much more proactive and integrative approach to health. This perspective/approach has the potential to positively shape policy in Texas in my role as a public servant charged with addressing the safety net needs of the most vulnerable constituents in Texas.”

Trina K. Ita, MA, LPCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - July 10, 2024

“CGI feels like a community of long-lost cousins that finally met as adults and we realized that we share the same goals. The support from the faculty and classmates have been nothing short of amazing. I can reach out to my advisor at any given time to discuss course work, career endeavors, or to just vent about life. There is a feeling of closeness and belongingness at CGI that is just unmatched. I am very happy to be a member of the family and will continue to spread the word of how great this DBH program is.”

Michelle Francis, LCSW/LICSW-QSDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - September 10, 2024

“The DBH program’s mission, purpose, and objective say it all: We strive for intentional care outcome improvement practices that exemplify whole person-centered integrated healthcare advanced competency. The program of study drives insights and awareness of the ever-changing patient population and multidisciplinary practice environments to change how the world experiences healthcare. This is further reinforced by the pillars of medical literacy, integrated behavioral health intervention, and entrepreneurship skills and expertise. Development growth is needed to prepare the aspiring DBH for the future of the shifting healthcare marketplace through international networking in a growing community of disruptive innovators and an evolving movement toward systemic healthcare change. I feel that I will be positioned alongside a fellowship of like-minded professionals trying to improve the quality of healthcare service delivery value and outcome sustainability.”

Jose Mathew, LCSW, LAC, ACS, EMDR-T, CCTP-IIDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - October 8, 2024

“The DBH program has reinforced my vision of viewing behavioral health (BH) as an integrated component of the healthcare system rather than a siloed service. As a practitioner in the focused BH realm of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment, I observe on a regular basis how identifying and serving SUD patients is often missed, ignored and stigmatized in primary healthcare, despite the fact that early intervention at these check-points often has the potential to intervene earlier and lessen the negative SUD outcomes frequently seen by the time a patient reaches specialty SUD services. Reinforcement received in my DBH program has motivated me to promote integration as a leader in my workplace and is a primary factor in considering the long-term trajectory of my individual career path.”

Kenneth L. Roberts, MPS, LPCC, LADCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - November 5, 2024

“By becoming a DBH, I have found that I am able to have different conversations with different people. Before having my doctorate degree, I was able to speak to certain items in behavioral health, but was only seen as a licensed therapist where as a doctor, I am able to speak to the changemakers and policy makers in a more collaborative manner which then allows us as a group to enhance the services we are providing. I also found that as a DBH, my confidence in the treatment room has improved immensely and cases that may have been more difficult for me before are no longer as difficult due to the training I have received in the program.”

Dr. Allison Earl, DBH, LPC-SDBH Alumna, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - November 13, 2024

“I think the DBH is quite groundbreaking, it allows you to study from anywhere in the world. The support is fantastic, and you can make out of the DBH what you want. Unlike standard professional doctorates, the DBH was trying to break new ground, not trying to go over just old ground. It greatly encourages its students to be those people who break new ground.

As a person who actually has a disability, I found CGI staff to be very supportive, very accommodating. If I need extensions, they are always there. In fact the staff will reach out and check on you, if they haven’t heard from you in a very short period of time. Which I have never had from any other university.

I find the community of fellow DBH students absolutely wonderful, we reach out across numerous social media platforms, we email each other. Doesn’t matter where I am in the world or where they are in the world, everyone is supportive. Its support, support and encouragement with the DBH.”

Jason P. Sargent, B Policing, GDip Psych, MSW, JPDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - December 10, 2024

“Graduating from the DBH program has influenced and enhanced my approach to addressing behavioral health challenges and making a difference in the field by preparing me to become a serious business owner. Through the DBH program, I understand now that becoming a business owner not only assists me in reaping the financial benefits of working for myself, but the program also offers me a sense of freedom to make a difference in an individual’s life.”

Dr. Rebecca K. Wright, DBH, LBA, BCBA, QBADBH Alumna, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - December 18, 2024

“I have always wanted to pursue a higher degree but never found a program that met my needs. When I investigated the DBH program, I can honestly say I was excited. It was a program that would expand my knowledge in behavioral health but also how it relates to physical health. The philosophy of treating the whole person was exactly what I was looking for.”

Elizabeth Nekoloff, M.Ed., LPCC-S, NCCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - January 16, 2025

“Prior to obtaining my DBH, I practiced behavioral health within the boundaries of behavior analysis. The DBH degree has given me the ability to broaden my scope of competence allowing me to provide a higher quality of care to my clients through a person-centered approach, while still staying within my scope of practice. I was in the beginning stages of opening my business when I enrolled in the DBH program which set my trajectory towards being a stronger leader. The program equipped me with essential healthcare leadership and entrepreneurial skills, allowing me to ensure high-quality services for my clients and foster a supportive work environment for our staff. It has also given me the confidence to expand my business and pursue other healthcare ventures, reaching a broader range of patients in need.”

Dr. Pauline Tolentino Pablo, DBH, BCBA, IBADBH Alumna, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - January 21, 2025

“Although I have worked with many patients who have mental health diagnoses, or behaviors which make managing their medical diagnoses and day to day life difficult, the DBH program at CGI is broadening that knowledge and providing a deeper understanding of behavioral health and how best to help these individuals manage their health and improve their quality of life. This will allow me to provide and advocate for more meaningful and seamless integrated care, providing new tools for my intervention toolbox, and the confidence and skills to collaborate within and lead whole person focused interdisciplinary teams. I also anticipate building upon my knowledge as a nurse case manager and long time caregiver, as well as my personal passions and professional vision, learning about processes and operations, to be in position to start up and lead my own company one day, offering the services and care I know every person should have access to.”

Hollie Wilson, MSN, RN, CCMDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - February 11, 2025

“The Doctor in Behavioral Health (DBH) program has changed my understanding of the subject and career path. Before this academic journey, my knowledge of behavioral health was primarily theoretical, including essential ideas and methods. However, the DBH curriculum combined intense academic research with practical application, helping me understand behavioral health from multiple angles. Recognizing mental health as part of total health changed my perspective. The biopsychosocial model, which showed how biological, psychological, and social variables affect mental health, was stressed in the DBH curriculum. This comprehensive approach made me realize how complex human behavior is and how important it is to address mental health issues. Effective interventions must target the individual’s surroundings, relationships, and life experiences, not just symptoms. The curriculum also gave me enhanced evidence-based practice training to execute successful solutions. Studies methods and data analysis classes improved my critical thinking and allowed me to evaluate and apply behavioral health studies. This gave me the confidence to contribute to the field’s knowledge base through practice and research.”

Dr. Rhea Hill, DBH, LPCDBH Alumna, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - February 17, 2025

“The DBH program will open opportunities for me to contribute to healthcare system innovation, particularly through trauma-informed care and integrated behavioral health settings. I will be better positioned to advocate for and implement holistic care models that improve health outcomes for underserved populations. Ultimately, this program will help me transition into higher-level roles, such as a director or consultant in behavioral health, where I can influence broader system changes and contribute to the future of healthcare delivery.”

DeKyn Rashad Peters, MPH-CHES,BSW/BA,APCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - March 4, 2025

“The DBH program has been integral in preparing me for leadership roles by providing a solid foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of leadership within the behavioral health sector. Through coursework, case studies, and hands-on experiences, I have learned to lead with empathy, data-driven decision-making, and strategic planning. The program has also honed my skills in organizational development, communication, and policy advocacy, equipping me to effectively lead teams, drive impactful change, and foster environments that promote positive behavioral health outcomes. With this training, I am confident in my ability to lead initiatives that address systemic barriers and improve care delivery.”

Dr. Jerrika Henderson, DBH, CMHCDBH Alumna, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - March 18, 2025

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