Current Graduate
Hannah Swick is a first-year graduate student in the Counseling Psychology master’s program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Prior to this, she completed a BS in Family and Consumer Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and was a high school teacher. It was during her time as a teacher that she became more reflective of her experiences as a Southeast Asian woman and transracial adoptee and realized a passion for supporting individuals’ wellbeing and advocating for the marginalized. Upon this realization, she wasn’t sure how that passion necessarily translated to a profession but is confident combining her lived experience with the knowledge and skills gained through training to be a counselor and getting involved in research will provide direction. She’s excited to be a part of the impact the Pain, Context, and Innovation Lab will have on care quality and access, especially for those who are underserved and underrepresented.
Self-care for Hannah looks like baking her favorite desserts, getting brunch with a friend, and checking out new zoos, museums, and parks with her two children.
Min Xu is an international student from China. She is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Demonstrating dedication to her academic and professional aspirations, Min is committed to advocating for the holistic well-being of individuals with disabilities through the application of her clinical expertise and research endeavors. Min's research primarily centered around comprehending the complexities of social adjustment among Asians with disabilities. The overarching objective of her work is to effectuate a tangible enhancement in the overall quality of life for Asians with disabilities. Min is concerned with cultural disparities in research and clinical work. She aspires to promote culturally sensitive and equitable mental health and medical services for Asians through her multifaceted approach encompassing research, clinical interventions, and advocacy efforts. Min earned her B.S. degree in Psychology at Utah Valley University.
Patrina Wong is an international student from Hong Kong who is currently pursuing her M.S in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. During the course of her studies, her interest in mental health and its intersection with one’s sociocultural background continues to grow, especially when she realizes how much of psychology’s foundations are built upon traditionally white, Euro- or US-centric perspectives. Patrina is particularly interested in understanding how Asian’s understanding of shame may impact their various health-related experiences, whether that be health-seeking behaviors, pain, illness trajectory, or seeking social support. Patrina’s clinical interests lie in collaborating with individuals diagnosed with terminal illnesses and those experiencing bereavement; she hopes to incorporate her research experiences into her clinical practice, bringing forth a more culturally aware and person-centered approach to her clients. Patrina earned her undergraduate degree in Social Sciences at the University of Hong Kong.