Have I ever volunteered with NPA?
The only official position I’ve held in NPA has been Disaster Coordinator, which seems somehow appropriate. In an unofficial capacity, I’ve written and sometimes delivered testimony to state legislative committees, mostly on topics related to reproductive rights and issues germane to the mental health of sexual and gender minorities. I often help as a mic runner and general gopher at the spring and fall conferences.
Where do you work??
I’m currently employed in provision of mental health services to veterans and as a lecturer in the UNL Psychology Department.
Why did you become a psychologist?
As a sophomore in high school, when speech class made me I realize I was too afraid of public speaking to be a lawyer like my relatives, I chose clinical psychology. Ironically, I now find myself teaching large lecture sections at UNL, so I suspect I actually do a lot more public speaking than my lawyer cousins.
Why did you become a psychologist?
As a sophomore in high school, when speech class made me I realize I was too afraid of public speaking to be a lawyer like my relatives, I chose clinical psychology. Ironically, I now find myself teaching large lecture sections at UNL, so I suspect I actually do a lot more public speaking than my lawyer cousins.
What do you love most about your current work? How do you maintain a work/life balance?
These two questions are linked for me because what keeps me going is being able to alternate clinical work with teaching. I feel the clinical contact enriches my teaching, but without the break and perspective that teaching provides, I would quickly lose what’s left of my sanity.
Any fun hobbies/interests?
During COVID I got into travel planning, including trying to learn the languages of places I want to visit. I think it’s good mental exercise, but I’m not sure what Duolingo has taught me is going to be that helpful. I can say “I’m never buying a horse again” in German and “I take off my pants in the winter” in Japanese.
Are you currently binge-watching any shows?
Dan and I have been watching National Geographic’s Underdogs, a wildlife series about nature’s D-team. It’s fascinating, but it’s narrated by Ryan Reynolds, so it’s not exactly something to share with your young children. Also don’t watch it while eating dinner unless you need to lose weight.
Download Member Spotlight PDF: Rose Esseks
You can connect with/send a message to Dr. Esseks HERE.
