Dr. Wellman received her PsyD in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis on Forensics from Spalding University (Louisville, KY) in 2013. She completed internship training with a focus on neuropsychology at a Veteran’s Administration (Sioux Falls, SD). Post-doctoral training emphasized forensic, neuropsychological, and behavioral medicine evaluations.
Prior to graduate school, Dr. Wellman worked with military and forensic populations in several different correctional facilities at the local, state, and federal level. Furthermore, she worked in clinical, academic, and research settings for those with neurodevelopmental disorders and learning disabilities, as well as teaching graduate level courses in Research Methods, Statistics, Psychopathology, and Counseling Skills. Since completion of her post doc, she has worked in community mental health, correctional settings, medical settings, and a college counseling center. She has served as an instructor, consultant, and supervisor for the WSH internship program since 2014. She is licensed in Kentucky, Tennessee, and has a PsyPact authorization to practice telehealth in 38 states. She is a member of Tennessee Psychological Association, TPA neuropsychology special interest group, and statewide forensic neuropsychological consultation group.
While she generally focuses on forensic and neuropsychological evaluations, Dr. Wellman also sees therapy patients on topics related to health changes/behavioral medicine, grief/depression, and phase of life changes. In therapy, conceptualization is integrative, drawing from psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and interpersonal therapy approaches. She also utilizes motivational interviewing and acceptance and commitment therapy strategies, including mindfulness, in patients with complex medical conditions and chronic pain. Dr. Wellman has received specialized training and supervision on evidenced based treatments for PTSD (CPT & PE), Insomnia (CBT-I), Chronic Pain (CBT-CP), Mindful-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and Social Skills Training.
In supervision, Dr. Wellman uses an integrated developmental approach in that she provides direct guidance when needed, though leaves plenty of space for the student to develop and refine their own clinical identity and judgment. During her training, some of her best “Ah-ha moments” came outside of the official supervision time and, in continuing that model, she believes in making time for informal supervision/consultation via phone, email, or face to face based on the supervisee’s needs. In addition to supervision, Dr. Wellman presents didactics on Sexual Risk Assessment, Violence Risk Assessment, and Neuropsychology.
Dr. Wellman lives in Tennessee, with her partner Ivan. When she’s not working, Dr. Wellman is likely outside focusing on ecological restoration and sustainability in her native plant gardens and certified wildlife and pollinator habitats. She volunteers with Southeastern Grassland Institute, Wild Ones of Middle Tennessee, Tennessee Native Plant Society, and the Middle Tennessee Highland Games. Her “inside” hobbies include historical books/shows/movies, genealogy, vinyl records (The Beatles & Billy Joel are her favorites), Broadway shows, and symphony performances.
“Not every day will be perfect. Some days you’re the pigeon; other days you’re the statue.”
“For what it’s worth, it’s never too late to be whoever you want to be. I hope you live a life you’re proud of, and if you find you’re not, I hope you have the strength to start over.”