Her Story
About Ladan
Ladan Khatibijah is a psychologist board certified in clinical psychology. Since 2017, she has built her career in the mental health field, with her primary role as an assessment specialist conducting mostly ADHD evaluations for adults along with other psychological assessments for diagnostic purposes. She also serves as a clinical supervisor for post-doctoral residents and as training director for a doctoral internship program, directing day-to-day needs and supporting interns in their growth. Ladan earned a human resources certificate, a bachelor's degree in psychology from Sacramento State University, and a doctorate in clinical psychology with a minor in correctional psychology from Alliant Sacramento. Her honors include being on the dean's honors list throughout her three years of graduate school and receiving nominations within her mental health training program. She volunteered on a suicide prevention line, which further inspired her pursuit of a doctorate. Ladan attributes her success to being a lifelong learner who sets structured goals with small achievable steps, and she values family first, self-care, loyalty, commitment, diversity, inclusion, and cultural humility in both her personal and professional life.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Ladan
01What do you attribute your success to?
I’ve always considered myself a lifelong learner. One of the biggest factors in my success has been creating structure in my life by setting clear goals and breaking them down into small, achievable daily, weekly, and monthly steps. Having meaningful goals to work toward keeps me motivated and gives me a sense of purpose. Even when I experience imposter syndrome, making steady progress and accomplishing those goals reinforces my confidence and inspires me to keep growing and striving for more.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve ever received was to show up for colleagues and patients as a human being—to be present, curious, and genuinely interested in their experiences and feelings. I’ve also learned the importance of leaving work at work: taking time to process the day, but then shifting my focus to family and self-care at home so I can maintain balance and sustainability over the long term. That advice has been especially important on difficult days, when doubling down on self-care helps me reset and keep going.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
You don’t have to leave behind who you are to succeed. In fact, the parts of yourself that once made you feel different often become your greatest strengths. Take the time to research the field, connect with professionals, and understand the day-to-day realities so you can make informed decisions about your path. Embrace the journey, stay curious, and invest in your growth beyond the classroom. Most importantly, believe in yourself—even before you feel fully ready.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges is navigating a world where major events affect everyone—including mental health professionals, who are carrying their own emotions while supporting others. It requires intentional self-care and resilience to remain fully present for patients.
Another challenge is the rise of social media and viral platforms like TikTok, where mental health content can increase awareness but also contribute to misinformation and self-diagnosis of conditions such as ADHD. This highlights the importance of thorough, evidence-based assessments and staying current with research to help patients distinguish between online trends and accurate clinical information.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
In my personal life, I value family above all else. I also believe that self-care is essential—not only for my own well-being, but because it allows me to be fully present for the people I care about.
Professionally, I value loyalty, integrity, and a strong commitment to my work, colleagues, and the people I serve. I also deeply value diversity, inclusion, and cultural humility. I believe meaningful relationships and effective care are built on respect, openness, and a willingness to continually learn from the unique experiences and perspectives of others.
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