Clinician Spotlight: Sultan Hubbard, M.S.

January 20, 2020

Where did you go to undergrad?

Grand Valley State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan

Did you always know you wanted to work in a medical setting or have any previous medical setting work exposure before graduate school?

No I didn't! I wasn't fully aware psychologists worked in medical centers until starting this program.

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 was very interested in the skills I would learn, particularly behavioral health and skill based interventions. In previous clinical settings behavioral health strategies to improve health and wellbeing were infrequently discussed, which made me seek this training through the PC Psychology Training Collaborative model.

What primary care clinic(s) do you work in?

Ambulatory Care Center (ACC), Hayes E. Willis Health Center (HEW), Center for Healthy Hearts, and the Motivate Clinic (tele-health).

What clinical populations are you interested in working with (Age groups, problem areas, any other thing you can think of)?

As a general rule I am passionate about clinic work across populations and presenting issues, however, I thoroughly enjoy working with men of color on substance use, identity, and men's issues. I also enjoy therapeutic work related to existential issues such as ultimate reality, purpose, faith, and freedom.

What have you liked about your primary care rotation?

I enjoy working with diverse client populations with diverse clinical concerns. Its quite a treat personally, professionally, and intellectually.

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?

Be efficient, communicate clearly, consult regularly, and be flexible. Primary care is a placement that provided ample opportunity to cultivate these skills.