Women in Medicine: Jennifer Lynne Stephens, MS

Why did you pursue a career in medicine?

I am pursuing a career in clinical psychology to help others come into the fullest, healthiest versions of themselves.

What is your work focused on?

Throughout my time in graduate school, I have gravitated toward research areas where time-limited behavioral interventions can affect large-scale downstream change within an individual. Given both resource and time constraints in delivering care long-term to patients with multiple comorbid conditions, I am passionate about researching and delivering efficient and accessible ways to address foundational issues of mental health. Sleep is both a barometer and driver of mental health outcomes, and I have spent much of my graduate training exploring the psychological impacts of insomnia as well as diving deep into the most effective interventions for it.

What is the most fulfilling part of your work?

The most fulfilling part of my work is witnessing resilience day in and day out as people overcome and grow despite extremely difficult situations, traumatic events, and contexts.

What advice would you give others who are considering embarking on a career in medicine?

Imposter syndrome is real, earning a degree in this field isn't about knowing everything, it's about learning what you/we don't know and learning how to start answering those questions.