Dominika A. Winiarski, PhD

Assistant Professor
Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush Medical College
Role: Clinician and Researcher
Joined Rush in 2016

Bio

I have master’s degrees in Child Development and Clinical Psychology, and a PhD in Clinical Psychology. My research and clinical interests lie in understanding the development of externalizing behavior in early-to-middle childhood and in expanding access to empirically supported treatments for child behavior problems to underserved families.

What inspired you to get into your field?

Psychology is one big puzzle, and I am interested in understanding how all of the different pieces (e.g., genetics, brain development, cultural factors, social environment, etc.) fit together to shape child development. This is a field for people who love to think from a multidisciplinary lens.

What excited you about your work at Rush?

Rush’s commitment to addressing health disparities aligns perfectly with my personal and professional goals.

What is your opinion of mentoring and sponsorship? Please comment about your experiences.

Having a supportive mentor is critical to developing your research program. I have been fortunate to have strong supporters at every step of my training and professional development, and I hope to pay it forward to the next generation of clinical scientists.

Do you have tips or advice you would recommend for someone looking to enter your field of work?

Be well-rounded in your research and clinical endeavors because they inform one another. Understanding the needs of your patient population and having a passion for what you do as a clinician gives you the grit to weather the uncertainty of the research world.

What are your hobbies? How do you like to spend your free time?

I enjoy reading, drinking good coffee, spending time with family and yoga.