The Missouri Psychological Association (MOPA) is proud to recognize Kymbriona Taylor as the Psychologist of the Month (Student) for her exceptional contributions to the field of psychology, her unwavering commitment to social justice, and her dedication to uplifting marginalized communities. Kymbriona’s work exemplifies the highest standards of professional excellence, leadership, and service, making her a standout figure in Missouri’s psychological community.

Professional Excellence

Kymbriona has demonstrated remarkable skill and dedication in her clinical and research work. As a therapist, she provides individual therapy to college students and administers neurodevelopmental assessments to adolescents, ensuring that her clients receive compassionate, culturally informed care. Her dissertation research focuses on the intersectional challenges, strengths, and sources of pride within Black Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) communities, shedding light on an often-overlooked population and advancing our understanding of their unique experiences. 

Kymbriona’s research contributions extend beyond her dissertation. She has served as a research assistant for Dr. Kaleea Lewis on projects exploring race-based traumatic stress, substance use, racism, suicide, and digital storytelling among Black emerging adults in St. Louis and Kansas City. Additionally, she co-facilitated photovoice focus groups under Dr. Michelle Teti, centering students’ experiences of diversity, equity, and inclusion at the University of Missouri-Columbia. 

Her commitment to improving mental health care for marginalized communities has been recognized nationally. Kymbriona was selected for the prestigious APA Interdisciplinary Minority Fellowship Program, an honor awarded to graduate students whose work demonstrates a dedication to enhancing the quality of care for ethnic and racial minorities with mental health challenges.

Leadership

Kymbriona’s leadership within MOPA and beyond has been transformative. As the Student Representative on the Social Justice and Diversity Committee, she has been a driving force in advancing equity and inclusion within the organization. She represented MOPA at the 2023 Practicing Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C., where she contributed to discussions on the future of psychological practice and advocacy. 

At the University of Missouri, Kymbriona serves as President of the Counseling Psychology Student Organization, where she bridges the gap between graduate students and faculty while planning social, cultural, and professional events that enrich the graduate student experience. Her leadership extends to the national stage as well. She is serving a three-year term as a Student Representative for the APA Board of Convention Affairs, assisting in planning the Annual APA Convention. 

Kymbriona served as the Student Representative for APA Division 31, where she organized and facilitated the inaugural Division 31 Graduate Student Town Hall.  This groundbreaking initiative created a safe space for students to voice their concerns and share resources. Her current project involves developing a needs assessment to help state psychological associations better support graduate students, further solidifying her reputation as a leader who prioritizes the needs of her peers.

Mentorship and Service to Others

Kymbriona’s dedication to mentorship and service is a cornerstone of her work. As a Student Consultant for Nurturing My Wellness, she supports underrepresented students at the University of Missouri by coordinating mental health-related events, providing psychoeducational materials, and delivering presentations on culturally informed mental health and wellness. Her efforts have reached a broader audience through presentations at the Meeting of the Minds Conference in Kansas City and the Dennis H. Mays Diversity Conference at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where she highlighted the importance of culturally responsive programming on college campuses. 

From 2021 to 2024, Kymbriona was a mentor in the Graduate Scholars of Excellence program, offering academic, professional, and personal support to undergraduate psychology students. Her mentorship has empowered the next generation of psychologists to pursue their goals with confidence and resilience.

A Vision for the Future

Kymbriona’s work is a testament to her passion for psychology, commitment to social justice, and belief in community power. Through her clinical practice, research, leadership, and mentorship, she is profoundly impacting psychology and the lives of those she serves. MOPA is honored to celebrate Kymbriona as the Psychologist of the Month (Student) and looks forward to her continued contributions to the field. 

Join us in congratulating Kymbriona for her outstanding achievements and her dedication to creating a more equitable and inclusive future for psychology!  

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