Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is the practice of developing self-awareness, self-control, and interpersonal skills vital for school, work, and life. As students learn to identify and manage their own emotions and behaviors, they demonstrate improved perspective-taking and empathy, more effective problem-solving skills, fewer behavioral concerns in the classroom, and healthier interpersonal relationships with peers, teachers, and family. This panel discussed the benefits experienced from implementing a consistent SEL program and how panelists have advocated for its use. The targeted audience for this session was school mental health professionals and educators from our region (CO, MT, ND, SD, UT, WY).
Dr. Aaron Fischer, PhD
Dr. Fischer is the Dee Endowed Professor of school psychology, adjunct associate professor of psychiatry, and director of the University of Utah Huntsman Mental Health Institute's School Mental Health Collaborative. He is a Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Board-Certified Behavior Analyst. He has worked with individuals with mental and behavioral health concerns, and their families for over 15 years. His research focuses on the intersection of innovative technology and school mental health, specifically telehealth applications to support diverse students, caregivers, and educators.
Dr. Brittany Greiert, PhD
Dr. Greiert is a Licensed Psychologist and Nationally Certified School Psychologist from Denver, Colorado. She is the President-Elect of the Colorado Society of School Psychologists (CSSP) and the 2019 Colorado School Psychologist of the Year. Brittany received her B.A. in Advertising from Michigan State University, her M.A. in Psychology from Pepperdine University, and her Ph.D. In Child, Family, and School Psychology from the University of Denver.
McKinley Withers, Ed.D., M.Ed.
I have had the privilege of working as teacher, counselor, and administrator. I received a bachelor’s degree in Social Science Teaching from Brigham Young University, a master’s degree in Psychology with an emphasis in School Counseling from Utah State University, and a Doctoral Degree in Educational Leadership and Policy from the University of Utah. I currently work as Jordan District’s Health and Wellness Consultant. If you don’t find me in public schools then you’ll find me with my amazing wife and beautiful children, running (preferably on trails), or trying some other outdoor hobby. I hope to meet you out in our schools or out in the wild!
