On May 17th, 2024 the National Psychology Training Consortium (NPTC) celebrated 20 years of training tomorrow’s psychologists in the discipline and practice of psychology with rural and underserved patients. Alumni, supervisors, training directors, staff, and others came together to reflect on the impact and the growth of NPTC. The day began with a training from Mallori DeSalle, who led participants through exercises and discussions related to self-care, humor, and improv.

In the evening, guests had a meal together and listened to past and present leaders of our organization speak about the challenges and triumphs of growing the Consortium. Watch the videos below for discussions about NPTC’s journey. 

Read about the CE Presenter – Mallori DeSalle, MA, LMHC, NCC, CMHC, MATS, CPS, CHP

Mallori DeSalle is a licensed mental health counselor, nationally certified counselor, medication-assisted treatment specialist, an internationally certified prevention specialist, CliftonStrengths coach and certified humor professional. Over the last 20 years she has worked in mental health, substance abuse and prevention fields with people of all ages. Since the early 2000’s Ms. DeSalle has worked with healthcare, behavioral healthcare and community-based organizations to implement substance use prevention interventions. In 2008 Ms. DeSalle began her role as faculty in the Department of Applied Health Science in the School of Public Health at Indiana University, Bloomington. Within the university, Ms. DeSalle serves Prevention Insights (a center at IUB) as the Director for SBIRT Implementation and Lead Motivational Interviewing (MI) Trainer. She is a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT), Certified as a trainer by MINT (2021), is listed on the National Addiction Technology Transfer Center SBIRT Trainers’ Registry and became a TEDx speaker in 2021. Ms. DeSalle provides training and technical support with MI, SBIRT, humor and a variety of other substance use and mental health related areas to multidisciplinary audiences both nationally and internationally. Ms. DeSalle has served on the Board of Directors for the Association for Applied and Therapeutic Humor and serves as the President of the Cottey College Alumnae Association Board of Directors.

Follow Mallori on LinkedIn to connect with her!

Below are some photos from Mallori’s presentation and the many fun activities. 

Alumni Network Launch

NPTC is forming an alumni network! The goal of creating the network is to engage alumni worldwide to share ideas, discussions, opportunities, and to celebrate and support one another. If you have been an intern with NPTC, please join the LinkedIn group and look for more information about how you can be involved.

Pictured below are five generations of supervisor/supervisee connections — Before the Consortium was formed, Dr. Deborah Walker supervised Dr. CJ Davis. In 2008, Dr. Davis supervised Dr. Angela King who later supervised Dr. Brittany Pratt (2013) who went on to supervise Dr. Genevieve Bendeck (2020).

Not only are many of these individuals still actively providing supervision, but they also hold or have held leadership positions within the consortium. It is so amazing to see these connections and the mentorship that comes from such supervision experience across our agencies. This is what we hope to continue to see on a bigger scale in our alumni network! NPTC is made better through this network of amazing people all over the world!

Event Photos 

Awards and Recipients

NPTC celebrated its 20th anniversary by recognizing a site, an intern, a supervisor, and an alumni who represent the training values of the Consortium. 

Site Excellence in Training Award Recipient: HealthPoint – Cascades Region

“HealthPoint has a well structured learner program and [has] been a leader in recruiting and training Psychologists from diverse backgrounds.” Pictured is site Training Director, Dr. Robert Allred, accepting the award.

Intern of the Year Award Recipient: Emily Ehrlich – Aspire Indiana – Great Lakes Region

“Emily has been an excellent chief intern and fellow trainee. She is active about being the voice of the Great Lakes Region and goes out of her way to include everyone, be a positive light, and be a leader.” Pictured is Dr. Sarah Dross-Gonzalez accepting the award on Emily’s behalf. 

Supervisor of the Year Award Recipient: Dr. Deborah Walker – Burrell Behavioral Health – Central Region

“Dr. Walker provided one of the most supportive supervision experience I have had throughout my clinical training. Her supervision approach was a great combination of valuable experience and empathic understanding.” Pictured is Dr. Deborah Walker accepting the award.

Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient: Dr. Gurusewak Khalsa – 2020 Central Region cohort

“Dr. Khalsa’s unwavering commitment to addressing global atrocities and the profound psychological impact on individuals worldwide is not only commendable but also increasingly undeniable, especially in the context of our current global landscape. His work, aligned with NPTC values, reflects a deep understanding of human diversity and a dedication to lifelong learning.” Pictured are Dr. Chelsea Gilliam and Dr. Brittany Pratt accepting the award on his behalf.

Hidden Gem Award Recipient: Bob Gagnon – NPTC Accountant

“The ultimate recognition award for employees who may not always be in the spotlight, but consistently shine with their exceptional performance and contributions.” Pictured is Bob Gagnon accepting the award.