Her Story
About Vinita
I knew early on I wanted to work at the intersection of education and mental health. After getting my undergraduate in psychology, I worked at an inpatient psychiatric hospital which inspired me to pursue school psychology. I got my master's and PhD from Loyola after starting at a state school. I spent 10 years in the school system before going into private practice for more creativity and agency. Now I coach clients on executive functioning, do testing, host a podcast, write on Substack, and am developing a book.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Vinita
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to tenacity and not wanting to shortchange myself. My culture values education highly, and I internalized that value system which shifted my approach during undergrad.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I received was from a patient: 'You're a lot more special than this place. You have a lot more to offer than what this place can give you. Don't keep yourself small.' This has propelled me to start my practice, podcast, and book.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't stay small. Find your footing, agency, and confidence. Collaborate with others, find a good mentor, and be a good mentor yourself.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is helping clients, especially teens, navigate distractions from AI, social media, and technology that seek immediate pleasure over long-term benefits, since the frontal lobe isn't fully developed.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity is number one. I don't take the easy way out or shortcuts when stakes are high. I value doing the work right and teaching my kids the same.
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