Research

My work focuses on translating mental health research into tools, strategies, and interventions that are accessible, culturally-responsive, and designed for real-world impact.

My work connects research, practice, and real-world application

As a clinical psychologist and professor, my research is grounded in understanding how cultural and stress-related factors shape mental health outcomes, particularly for Black communities and other historically underserved populations.

The goal of my work is to generate knowledge and to ensure that knowledge is applied in ways that are relevant and usable.

The focus of my research

My work centers on bridging gaps between evidence-based practices and the lived experiences of the communities they are meant to serve.

Areas of focus include:

CULTURAL AND STRESS-RELATED INFLUENCES ON MENTAL HEALTH

CULTURALLY-RESPONSIVE AND IDENTITY-AFFIRMING CARE

ADAPTING EVIDENCE-BASED INTERVENTIONS FOR DIVERSE POPULATIONS

DEVELOPING CULTURALLY-RESPONSIVE DIGITAL MENTAL HEALTH TOOLS

Research Showcase

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BlackFULLness™:

Expanding how we understand and support mental health in Black communities

With funding support from NIH’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, I created BlackFULLness, a mindfulness-based digital health app grounded in the belief that mental health care should reflect not only challenges, but also the strengths, values, and lived experiences of Black communities.

BlackFULLness features Black voice actors and mindfulness instructors, and it has been found to reduce stress, increase mindfulness behaviors, and boost self-compassion!

LEARN MORE

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Grant Consulting and Research Collaboration

Strong research requires both rigor and relevance.

I provide consultation for individuals, research teams, and mental health start ups seeking to develop projects and products that are both methodologically sound and culturally-responsive.

This includes support with:

Developing research questions grounded in real-world impact
Designing culturally-responsive study frameworks
Strengthening grant proposals and funding applications
Translating research into practical, community-centered outcomes

BOOK A CONSULTATION

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Speaking and Thought Leadership

I provide keynote speaking and training for organizations, institutions, and professional groups seeking to better understand and apply culturally responsive approaches to mental health.

Speaking engagements are designed to be:

Intellectually engaging and grounded in research
Clear, accessible, and actionable
Focused on real-world application and impact

Topics often include culturally-responsive care, mental health equity, and translating research into practice.

Listen to Dr. Natalie’s keynote at the Edna Bennett Pierce Prevention Research Center at Penn State.

LISTEN NOW

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Publications and Academic Work

Research that informs practice, and practice that informs research

My academic work reflects a commitment to advancing knowledge that is both rigorous and relevant. I continue to contribute to research that expands how we understand mental health and improves how care is delivered across diverse communities.