Ashley Mota is a graduate student in the Master’s in Psychological Science program at CSU San Marcos. She received her Bachelors of Arts in Psychological Science and Child and Adolescent Development from CSUSM in 2021. During her time at CSUSM, she was a research assistant in two research labs where she conducted research on children’s social cognitive development and the outcomes associated with trauma and violence exposure. Ashley also held two office positions for the CSUSM Psi Chi Chapter, President and Treasurer, respectively. Ashley’s current research interests include examining how trust plays a role in an individuals’ mental health symptoms and treatment outcomes after experiencing childhood betrayal trauma. In her free time, she enjoys playing video games, listening to podcasts, and doing arts and crafts.

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Jessica Orea is a graduate student in the Master’s Program in Psychological Science at CSU San Marcos (CSUSM). She graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Psychological Science from CSUSM in 2023. As an undergraduate, Jessica was a research assistant in two research labs focusing on emotions in young children, and perinatal mental health and infant developmental outcomes, respectively. She was also involved in the TRIO McNair Scholars Program and served office positions in the SACNAS chapter at CSUSM. Currently, Jessica is involved in the TRDRP Smoke and Vape Free Scholars Initiative Program. She is interested in research related to health disparities and the factors driving various outcomes (e.g., mental health and academic outcomes) among marginalized populations. After completing the master’s program, Jessica plans to pursue a PhD in social psychology and a career in research. In her free time, Jessica enjoys hanging out with family and friends, listening to music, and watching horror movies.

Tanya B. Perez is an undergraduate transfer student at California State University San Marcos, majoring in Psychological Sciences. Tanya plans to graduate in the Fall of 2022 and take a year off to gain more experience before applying for graduate programs. Tanya’s previous research was on the political affiliation of college students and voting trends during the start of the Covid pandemic and traditional gender roles and family makeup in children’s media. Tanya is a strong advocate of sustainability and renewable energy. She likes to spend time with her dog, friends, and family in her spare time.  

Diana Luna is a dedicated senior undergraduate student at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM), pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychological Science. Her passion for understanding human behavior drives her academic pursuits, with a focus on relationship psychology and the impact of trauma on attachment dynamics. Holding the role of Administrative Support Coordinator at CSUSM, she emphasizes cultural sensitivity in her connections with peers, mentors, and students. Equipped with a Crisis Prevention Certificate and Mental Health First Aid training from the National Council for Mental Health, Diana is committed to addressing mental health challenges. Beyond her studies, she volunteers at a domestic violence shelter, actively promoting prevention education. With aspirations of obtaining a Ph.D. in psychology, Diana aims to contribute significantly to the field by dedicating her time to fostering safer and more informed communities.

Jakob Phillips is a senior undergraduate student at CSUSM pursuing his Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychological Science. After graduation, he plans on applying to graduate school to pursue a Ph.D in Clinical Psychology. Before volunteering for the Trauma and Healing Lab, Jakob volunteered with the Trevor Project as a digital crisis counselor. Jakob’s current areas of interest include positive psychology, integrative interventions for treating mental health issues, and complex trauma. In his free time, Jakob enjoys playing with his dog, hiking, kayaking, traveling, and attending live performances.

Graduate Student at California Baptist University 

Graduate Student at University of Iowa

Graduate Student at Capella University studying Applied Behavior Analysis 

Graduate Student at California State University San Marcos