Clinician Spotlight: Janae Baker M.S.
February 27, 2025
Janae Baker is a Counseling Psychology student under the mentorship of Shawn Utsey, Ph.D. She is also heavily involved with the Clark Hill Institute for Positive Youth Development at VCU.
1. Where did you go to undergrad?
North Carolina A&T State University, B.A. in Psychology, Minor in Child Development and Family Studies
2. Did you always know you wanted to work in a medical setting or have any previous medical setting work exposure before graduate school?
I did not explore working in a medical setting before or have any exposure before graduate school.
3. Why did you choose to join the Primary Care Psychology Training Collaborative run by Drs. Rybarczyk and Jones? Did you hear anything in particular from other students that made you want to work in primary care?
I joined Primary Care to engage with my community in a meaningful capacity.
4. What primary care clinic(s) do you currently work in?
CrossOver Henrico
5. What clinical populations are you interested in working with?
Postpartum mothers experiencing mood and anxiety disorders.
6. What have you liked about your primary care rotation?
I have enjoyed the variety of patients I see, whether that be age or presenting concern.
7. What are your big takeaways from your work in primary care so far? How do you think this opportunity will prepare you for the workforce when you graduate?
This opportunity will prepare me for the workforce by enhancing my clinical skills, supporting the development of my identity as a clinician, and providing an opportunity to engage with patients from a variety of backgrounds.