Kyja Foster

Dr. Kyja Foster serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor at Augsburg University, specializing in integrated behavioral health across diverse clinical settings including outpatient, residential, inpatient hospital, and integrated medical clinics. Dually licensed as a clinical psychologist and alcohol and drug counselor, they focus on the intersection of trauma and substance use while serving children, adolescents, adults, and LGBTQIA+ populations.

Education:

• PsyD from Minnesota School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University
• MA from Argosy University-Twin Cities
• BS from University of Wisconsin-Madison

Their research integrates clinical practice with social justice frameworks, emphasizing trauma-informed care, neurodiversity-affirming approaches, and health equity in interdisciplinary healthcare systems. Key methodologies include psychodynamic/relational interventions, attachment-based assessment, and acute mental healthcare delivery within marginalized communities.

Professional contributions demonstrate expertise in substance use disorder treatment for adolescents, trauma assessment protocols, and recovery-focused relationship education delivered through institutional partnerships with Children's Minnesota and Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation.

As an educator, Dr. Foster implements developmental teaching models that prioritize clinical application of course material while centering diversity in psychological practice.