Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies Celebrates New Doctor of Behavioral Health Graduates

September 24, 2024

Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies (CGI), a nonprofit institution specializing in integrated behavioral health education, is proud to announce the graduation of seven new Doctors of Behavioral Health.

Dr. Erin Enwright, DBH, MS
Dr. Napoleon Harrington, DBH, LPC, MA
Dr. Bridgette Kinna, DBH, LCSW
Dr. Vivian Marana-Manchess, DBH, BCBA, LBA, CASAC
Dr. Pauline Pablo, DBH, BCBA, IBA
Dr. Ronnie Tyson, DBH, MSW
Dr. Rebecca Wright, DBH, LBA, BCBA

These graduates successfully completed the rigorous requirements of the Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) program and were honored at the DBH Commencement Ceremony on May 6, 2024, in Chandler, AZ. CGI celebrates their hard work, perseverance, and dedication in achieving this significant milestone and is honored to have supported them throughout their academic journey.

Dr. Erin Enwright, DBH, MS

Dr. Erin Enwright earned her B.A. in Psychology at Florida Atlantic University and her M.S. in Mental Health Counseling at Nova Southeastern University. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a passion for public service and helping her community. Working for county government in Miami Fl, she focuses on developing policies and programs to improve health outcomes for the community and its most vulnerable populations. Her work includes developing and implementing community-based programs in underserved areas of Miami-Dade County with a heavy focus on mitigating youth gun violence, and improving youth mental health and resiliency. Dr. Enwright is an appointed member of the Board of Adjustment for the city of Margate, Fl. She has held this position for 3 years and enjoys the opportunity to provide a valuable public service to her community. While enrolled in the DBH program, Dr. Enwright completed three certificate programs, the Integrated Behavioral Health Adult speciality certificate, the Integrated Behavioral Health Leadership speciality certificate, and the Integrated Behavioral Health Women’s Health speciality certificate. Dr. Enwright earned her Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) degree from Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies in 2023.

Dr. Enwright’s culminating project, Executive Function Training to improve Academic and Health Outcomes in Children with ADHD, established a school-based entrepreneurship program focused on enhancing long-term treatment outcomes for children with ADHD. The program integrates executive function skills training, shown to improve academic success for all students, particularly those diagnosed with ADHD. By empowering individuals with strategies to better manage their symptoms, Dr. Enwright’s project addresses a vital gap in chronic condition management, ultimately improving both treatment outcomes and overall quality of life.

Dr. Napoleon Harrington, DBH, LPC, MA

Dr. Napoleon Harrington is the Founder and Therapist of the Ambassador Counseling & Resource Group, an award-winning collaborative counseling organization dedicated to providing people and professionals with proficient counseling and training services. Upon earning his bachelor’s degree, he was awarded the Human Relations Award, a significant honor given to one graduating senior at Oakland University. Dr. Harrington is an award-winning presenter with national and international experience, and his leadership has been recognized by civic organizations and government officials. In January of 2016, he was inducted into the fifth class of the “Elite 40 under 40 of Oakland County”. Dr. Harrington is an alumnus and class president of the 28th class of Leadership Oakland – a premiere leadership program. He has served as past President of the Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association. In that role, Dr. Harrington was instrumental in the passage of Public Act 96 of Michigan, legislation that rescued the licensed professional counselor from a detrimental and uncertain future. Dr. Harrington was awarded the “2020 Counselor of the Year”, by the American Mental Health Counselors Association. In 2021, he was appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer to the Michigan Board of Counseling. While enrolled in the DBH program, Dr. Harrington completed two certificate programs, the Integrated Behavioral Health Gerontology speciality certificate and the Integrated Behavioral Health Leadership speciality certificate. Dr. Harrington earned his Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) degree from Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies in 2024.

Dr. Harrington’s culminating project, Care & Connect: An Evidence-Based Care Program for In Vitro Fertilization, addresses the emotional costs associated with IVF. While advancements in reproductive medicine offer hope to many, the IVF process often leads to increased levels of anxiety, depression, and shame. Through his culminating project, Dr. Harrington developed an integrated behavioral intervention support program specifically designed for individuals undergoing IVF treatment. By offering comprehensive psychological support and evidence-based interventions, the program seeks to address the psychological and psychosocial issues that are inherent in the IVF journey. Utilizing mindfulness practices, stress management techniques, and cognitive-behavioral therapy principles, the program equips participants with useful tools to manage the emotional impact of in vitro fertilization (IVF), build resilience, and foster a sense of empowerment throughout the treatment process.

Learn more about Dr. Harrington’s culminating project.

Dr. Bridgette Kinna, DBH, LCSW

Dr. Bridgette Kinna grew up on a farm in Maryland which instilled in her a love of nature, gardening, and good home-cooked meals. That upbringing also taught her the value of community and how interconnected we are with both the environment and each other. This motivated Dr. Kinna to pursue a career in public health. She earned a Master of Social Work degree with a clinical concentration from the University of Maryland School of Social Work. Her background is in forensic behavioral health providing direct care to the detained population. While enrolled in the DBH program, Dr. Kinna completed three certificate programs, the Integrated Behavioral Health Adult speciality certificate, the Integrated Behavioral Health Gerontology speciality certificate, and the Integrated Behavioral Health Leadership speciality certificate. Dr. Kinna earned her Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) degree from Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies in 2024.

Dr. Kinna’s culminating project, Combating Correctional Fatigue: The Role of Resilience, details the implementation of a holistic virtual wellness platform designed to address the cumulative effects of occupational stress injuries among correctional personnel. By utilizing a resilience-focused model, the platform aims to mitigate stress injuries and enhance overall well-being.

Learn more about Dr. Kinna’s culminating project.

Dr. Vivian Marana-Manchess, DBH, BCBA, LBA, CASAC

Dr. Vivian Marana-Manchess is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA),Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA) and an International Behavior Analyst (IBA). She is a Licensed Behavior Analyst and a Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Master Counselor (CASAC-MC) in New York State. Her career in the behavioral field extends from the psychiatric wards and family advocacy clinic at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center to the Office of People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) agencies, private homes, and alternative school settings. Upon completing her military tour, she attained a Doctor of Medicine and Surgery from the Philippines and practiced in general medicine. Dr. Marana-Manchess taught the medical component of substance use as part of a CASAC training curriculum to those pursuing the credential, including employees of New York City’s Treatment Alternative to Street Crime (TASC). She is a certified Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS) provider and a certified instructor on nonviolent crisis intervention and a Certified Perinatal Educator (CPE), providing doula and lactation support and childbirth education. While enrolled in the DBH program, Dr. Marana-Manchess completed three certificate programs, the Integrated Behavioral Health Gerontology speciality certificate, the Integrated Behavioral Health Leadership speciality certificate, and the Integrated Behavioral Health Women’s Health speciality certificate. Dr. Marana-Manchess earned her Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) degree from Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies in 2024.

Dr. Marana-Manchess’s culminating project, Trauma-Informed Training for Doulas: An Integrated Healthcare Approach, addresses the heightened risk of maternal and infant morbidity and mortality in vulnerable and underserved populations, including pregnant incarcerated women. These populations have complex needs that require integrated healthcare solutions. This project, based on an integrated healthcare model, trains doulas to use a trauma-informed approach, expanding their role to support clients with medical, mental health, and social determinants of health. By equipping doulas to provide person-centered, trauma-informed care, the project enhances access to essential healthcare and support services, empowering clients and improving their quality of life. The goal of this project is to help achieve the Quadruple Aim of better health outcomes, improved patient experiences, lower healthcare costs, and provider well-being.

Learn more about Dr. Marana-Manchess’s culminating project.

Dr. Pauline Pablo, DBH, BCBA, IBA

Dr. Pauline Tolentino Pablo is a trauma-aware Board Certified Behavior Analyst, mother, wife, and healthcare advocate. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a Master of Arts degree in Teaching with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis. Her work as a behavior analyst focuses on providing behavioral support services to neurodiverse individuals diagnosed with various developmental disabilities. Dr. Pablo co-owns and operates Symphony Behavioral Health Inc., a neurodiversity affirming ABA company serving the southern California region. She is also the co-founder of Asian, Pacific Islanders, and Behavior Analysis (APIABA), a non-profit organization that aims to disseminate the science of ABA within the Asian and Pacific Islander population, as well as promote diversity within the field to better serve diverse populations. While enrolled in the DBH program, Dr. Pablo completed three certificate programs, the Integrated Behavioral Health Gerontology speciality certificate, the Integrated Behavioral Health Leadership speciality certificate, and the Integrated Behavioral Health Women’s Health speciality certificate. Dr. Pablo earned her Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) degree from Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies in 2023, a degree that has equipped her with the knowledge to serve her clients with a human-centered, trauma-informed, and integrated healthcare approach.

Dr. Pablo’s culminating project, Finding the Silver Lining: Integrating Behavioral Gerontology in Elderly Care Settings, introduces a new program by Symphony Behavioral Health Inc. aimed at enhancing healthcare outcomes and overall quality of life for elderly adults in geriatric care settings by integrating behavioral gerontology services into geriatric care settings. Elderly individuals in geriatric care settings often experience gaps in care that exacerbate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline, contributing to unsafe behaviors like combativeness, falling, and wandering. The integration of behavioral gerontology services seeks to comprehensively address the psychological, physiological, behavioral, and social needs of elderly patients by creating an environment that provides dignified support and autonomy. Dr. Pablo’s project also includes training and consultation for caregivers, nurses, medical personnel, and healthcare administrators to equip them with the skills to support elderly individuals under their care, prevent compassion fatigue, and improve professional quality of life (pQOL). The overall goal of this project is to serve as a silver lining that improves the healthcare outcomes of elderly patients and the wellbeing of geriatric care providers, despite the multitude of challenges each group experiences.

Learn more about Dr. Pablo’s culminating project.

Dr. Ronnie Tyson, DBH, MSW

Dr. Ronnie Tyson is a husband and father of three adult children. He serves as the Deputy Director at Flint Odyssey House Inc, motivating others to seek a productive lifestyle, through self-knowledge. His culminating project is designed to motivate his children and grandchildren to seek their own path. While enrolled in the DBH program, Dr. Tyson completed two certificate programs, the Integrated Behavioral Health Gerontology speciality certificate and the Integrated Behavioral Health Leadership speciality certificate. Dr. Tyson earned his Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) degree from Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies in 2024.

Dr. Tyson’s culminating project, Health Equity Grounded Leadership: A Path to Integrated Care for Substance Use Disorders, aims to investigate whether leadership training, rooted in health equity principals, for substance use disorder (SUD) providers, will enhance their knowledge, skills, and confidence in implementing fiscal sustainability measures for integrated care, population health, and health equity initiatives.

Learn more about Dr. Tyson’s culminating project.

Dr. Rebecca Wright, DBH, LBA, BCBA

Dr. Rebecca K. Wright is Certified Behavior Analyst and a Licensed Behavior Analyst in the state of New York. She received both her undergraduate degree in Psychology and her Masters of Science in Education at Long Island University. Dr.Wright has worked as a certified school psychologist for Early Intervention agencies and has also worked as a Behavior Specialist for the Office of People With Developmental Disabilities in New York. She has 20 years of clinical experience working with individuals with special needs. While enrolled in the DBH program, Dr. Wright completed two certificate programs, the Integrated Behavioral Health Leadership speciality certificate and the Integrated Behavioral Health Women’s Health speciality certificate. Dr. Wright earned her Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) degree from Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies in 2024. Since graduating, Dr. Wright’s culminating project assessment has been approved for copyright from the United States copyright office.

Dr. Rebecca Wright’s culminating project, Can an integrated healthcare assessment explicitly developed for Early Intervention (EI) services benefit the overall development of children identified as an part of a marginalized community?, is an integrated healthcare assessment designed for children from marginalized communities who qualify for EI services. Early Intervention (EI) provides evaluations and services for children at risk of or diagnosed with developmental delays/disorders. Unfortunately, the high-risk population, which includes children below 200% of the federal poverty level, second-generation immigrants, and minority groups, is not consistently being referred for EI services. Children in poor communities lacking access to resources will have poor health outcomes later in life. The goal of Dr. Wright’s project is to improve the quality of care for children from marginalized communities by addressing social determinants of health that impact childhood development.

Learn more about Dr. Wright’s culminating project.

When reflecting upon the new graduates’ accomplishments, Dr. U. Grant Baldwin, Jr., DBH, Director of the DBH program, shares,

“I want to personally say how proud I am of these scholars for successfully completing their doctoral journey. Each graduate has demonstrated the ability to find their own unique voice as they matriculated through the DBH program with the support of our amazing administrative and academic team and their family and friends. This group of graduates embody the “true spirit” of being a disruptor in health care and will challenge the inequalities seen to ensure that all people have access to the quality healthcare they deserve.”

Each of these graduates brings a unique perspective to healthcare as a Doctor of Behavioral Health, and CGI eagerly anticipates the impact they will make in improving healthcare delivery and patient care.

About Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies (CGI)

Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies is a nonprofit, DEAC-accredited, online post-graduate institution of higher learning offering post-graduate education and training in the field of integrated behavioral healthcare. CGI is focused on meeting the healthcare industry’s need for a highly-skilled workforce to support an integrated approach to addressing patients’ needs. To learn more about CGI, visit, https://cgi.edu/.

For further information or to arrange interviews, contact:

Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies
Melissa McGurgan
melissa@cgi.edu

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