J.C. Gonzalez (left), pictured with his friend Connor on a recent Big Sur camping trip
This week we caught up with J.C. Gonzalez, a doctoral student with an emphasis in Clinical Psychology in CCSP under the supervision of Dr. Miya Barnett. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from the University of Connecticut. After graduating with his B.S., J.C. was a project coordinator for the 4KEEPS Study, an NIMH-funded project investigating implementation of multiple EBPs within the community mental health system of Los Angeles County. His research interests include dissemination and implementation science, strategies for increasing fatherhood engagement in parent training, and closing the gap between clinical research findings and health policy development. (Note this 5?s format is taken from one of the School's internal communications, and is meant to help the Gevirtz community get to know itself better.)
GGSE: Who (living or dead) do you most admire?
Gonzalez: I admire lots of people but I think I’d have to say my abuela, who, despite struggles with mental illness, still managed to have a career and life dedicated to serving her community.
GGSE: What is your favorite place in Santa Barbara?
Gonzalez: This time of year it’s anywhere outside in the morning while it’s still cold and fall-like. It’s the closest weather I can get to where I grew up in New Jersey.
GGSE: When (besides now) would you like to live?
Gonzalez: Probably in the future when more of the sea has been explored.
GGSE: Where (besides Santa Barbara) would you want to live if money/job were not an issue?
Gonzalez: Probably on the farm where my grandfather grew up in Puerto Rico.
GGSE: Why do you do the job you do?
Gonzalez: To help get care to those who need it most.