Alumni Profiles

“I was looking to further my understanding of integrated health and how the community at large can benefit from non-traditional modalities. I was also experiencing some health challenges, so I wanted to deepen my understanding of addressing the root cause, rather than treating the symptoms.”

In 2017, Hannah graduated from SUNY Cortland with her bachelor's degree in Community Health. In 2019, Hannah finished her MPH at SUNY Upstate and obtained her CHES (certified health education specialist. Hannah started working in transplant coordination and learned a lot about traditional clinical practices. She soon transferred her skills into a case manager role, working with adults with disabilities. She loves to promote integrative techniques to better the lives of the community in which she works with. In the future, Hannah hopes to promote wellness and educate others on integrative medicine. Although she is not 100% sure of the exact job she would want, Hannah feels that she could incorporate the knowledge obtained from this certificate, regardless of where her professional journey takes her.

“I truly believe that preventative medicine keeps our bodies and brains healthy throughout our lives. The medical model is always the first to go, while integrative approaches tend to be the most effective strategies both for the physical and mental/cognitive needs of a patient. The UMB program offers hands-on approaches that are practical and useful to include in the patient's treatment plan. It was doable from a distance. It provided research-based learning”.

Paula is a lifelong learner, committed to consistently improving her skillset. She began her academic journey at Heidelberg College, ultimately earning five master’s degrees in political science/Public Administration, Adult Education, Counseling Psychology, Clinical Psychopharmacology, and an MBA in Health Care Administration, She continued her academic receiving two doctorate degrees, an EdD from Nova Southeastern University in Adult Education and a PSYD from Adler University. In addition, Paula has a two-year fellowship certificate from Fielding Graduate University in Clinical Neuropsychology and a certificate in Clinical Hypnosis from Adler University. Most recently, she received a certificate in Integrative Health and Wellness from the University of Maryland, Baltimore. Paula has had a wonderful, varied career. She has served as a parole officer, executive director of non-profits, educator, and business owner. Paula currently owns NE Psychological, LLC in Fort Wayne, IN, while serving as a supervising psychologist at several local health organizations. As she is nearing the end of her career Paula enjoys her freedom as a business owner. She participates in activities that she believes will make a difference to individuals in this world, while she is still able to contribute to the best of her abilities.

"What I appreciate most about the program, still today, is how seamlessly I’ve been able to incorporate integrative health practices into my daily life and work. Whether it’s through supporting personal wellness or enhancing my professional role in global health, the program’s holistic approach has helped me view challenges through a broader, more balanced lens. The skills and insights I gained have become part of my foundation, and I regularly draw upon them to promote well-being and resilience in those around me."

Completing the University of Maryland Integrative Health and Wellness Program in 2020 was an incredibly transformative experience for Flessie. The comprehensive curriculum provided a deep dive into complimentary and integrative health practices, which she has applied both personally and professionally. She believes the program offered practical tools and knowledge, from stress management to holistic approaches in healthcare, that have enriched her understanding of health and wellness. She continues to reference the textbooks and core learning materials far more than initially anticipated, finding them invaluable resources for guidance and inspiration.