Where you are now working and what is your role?
I joined the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services in July 2024 where I serve as the Mental Health Director.
Tell us about your path to becoming a psychologist (educational background, career decisions, etc.)
I earned my PsyD from the California School of Professional Psychology-Los Angeles. After completing my post doctorate hours at a children’s counseling agency, I began my correctional healthcare career in the Missouri Department of Corrections. I worked my way through different leadership roles ultimately serving as the Regional Mental Health Director for eight years. The next leg of my correctional journey was as the Regional Vice President of Mental Health Services within the Alabama Department of Corrections. In July 2024 I moved to Nebraska to join the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services as the Mental Health Director. I’m blessed to work with an amazing team of professionals in NDCS and look forward to serving the citizens of Nebraska for years to come.
What do you love most about your current position?
Working in correctional healthcare has been very rewarding. Community psychology was part of my core education, and I’ve had the opportunity to apply it throughout my career. Most individuals in prisons will release and return to their communities. Supporting individuals on their path back to their homes and families is not just an individual intervention but one that benefits communities. Our NDCS team is comprised of many talented staff, our psychologists come from different backgrounds and clinical orientations.
What is the biggest career challenge you’ve had to overcome?
The COVID-19 Pandemic. Incarcerated individuals, like community members, had to be quarantined. Such isolation placed additional stress on these individuals. I recall wearing full personal protective equipment in the heat of summer visiting individuals in their quarantine housing units. I prayed for strength for them and for all of us who were there to provide care.
What do you like to do when you aren’t working? Any fun hobbies/interests?
I love to thrift. The idea of giving an unwanted item a new home rather than sending it to a landfill is fun and sustainable.
What are you reading or listening to or what is the last book you read?
I am currently listening to I am Maria by Maria Shriver.
Download Member Spotlight PDF: Elizabeth Atterberry
You can connect with/send a message to Dr. Atterberry HERE.
