معرفی
Melissa Kennedy, PhD, is a Clinical Professor at Antioch University Seattle in the Department of Clinical Psychology. She serves as Core Faculty in the doctoral program in clinical psychology, teaching courses including Social Psychology, Cultural Humility, and Professional Seminars. Her clinical and academic work bridges relational psychology, decolonial theory, and neuropsychoanalysis.
- PhD in Clinical Psychology, Seattle Pacific University
- MA in Existential Phenomenological Psychology, Seattle University
- BA in French with minors in Psychology and International Affairs, Illinois Wesleyan University
Her research focuses on decoloniality and social privilege awareness in clinical psychology, decolonizing pedagogy, and relational-cultural theories. She leads the Relational Treatment of Clinical Complexity research group, integrating frameworks like Polyvagal Theory, Radically Open DBT, and Neuropsychoanalysis to address complex trauma, personality disorders, and mind-body connections.
Dr. Kennedy’s work spans qualitative methodologies, emphasizing lived experiences and systemic critiques of white supremacy and colonial mindsets. Her teaching philosophy prioritizes reciprocal learning, authenticity, and fostering practitioner-scholars.
- Excellence in Teaching Award (2011)
- APA Distinguished Teacher of the Year (2010)
- Dickinson Fellow (2003–2004)
She maintains an active clinical practice via TeleHealth, specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and personality disorders. Her affiliations include the American Psychological Association (Divisions 35, 40, 8), GAINS, NPSA, and Washington State Psychological Association.
