The third new member to the U-High family is school psychologist Dr. Trisha Mann, who has a Bachelor degree in psychology, a minor in sociology, and a Ph.D. in school psychology, all from ISU.
“I was a senior in college when I learned about school psychology, and it was my final semester that I realized that would be a great career path for me,” Mann said. “ I started out in physical therapy and I changed [majors] to nursing only for one semester, and then I went into psychology.”
Growing up, Mann wanted to be a sports broadcaster because of the first ever female sports broadcaster Gayle Gardner.
“There was a female sports broadcaster, and the first one ever, and I remember thinking that would be so cool,” Mann said.
As Mann settles into U-High she has enjoyed getting to know the students and faculty. She has also started a new club, Mental Health Matters.
“Mr. Davis is the co-sponsor. We usually meet on Tuesdays after school a couple times a month,” Mann said.
This school year, Mental Health Matters partnered with Animal Welfare club and brought in dogs during finals week to help destress students. These clubs feel it is important for a student to recognize when they are stressed. Mann shared her personal warning signs of increased stress levels.
“I recognize when I start to lose patience and I also recognize if my shoulders are tense,” Mann said. “I will typically do something active whether it’s cardio or sometimes yoga. I will also journal.”
Dr. Mann’s work focuses on helping students navigate various challenges in their lives by learning how to deal with them in a healthy way.
“A psychologist really looks at the whole student, not just academics and not just mental health,” Mann said. “It’s how personal life, activities, peers, and family influence a student. So being able to approach a student from a holistic perspective is very helpful.”
Working within schools gives Mann more access to students and the struggles they have within school, family and activity life. Thankfully Mann is equipped and willing to help anyone who needs it.
“Happy to be here and happy to help with problems big or small,” Mann said.
