Cassandra Franke
About Cassandra Franke
Cassandra Franke is a Postgraduate Associate at the Yale Child Study Center, where she focuses on trauma-informed care and clinical neuroscience research. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience and Behavior from the University of Notre Dame and has experience in clinical psychology and volunteer work with children facing developmental challenges.
Work at Yale University
Cassandra Franke serves as a Postgraduate Associate at the Yale Child Study Center, a position she has held since 2021. In this role, she engages in various research and clinical activities aimed at understanding child development and mental health. Her work includes developing staff training modules that focus on the neuroscience of trauma-informed care, which are implemented in community mental health settings. This position allows her to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and practices that support children and families facing psychological challenges.
Education and Expertise
Cassandra Franke earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Notre Dame, where she studied Neuroscience and Behavior, along with a concentration in Italian Studies, from 2017 to 2021. Her academic background provides her with a strong foundation in both scientific research and cultural studies. She has also completed an honors thesis that explored the impact of financial and childcare changes during the COVID-19 pandemic on self-rated depression among pregnant women and new mothers, showcasing her research skills and focus on maternal mental health.
Background
Cassandra Franke has a diverse background that includes both academic and practical experiences in mental health and child development. She volunteered in a therapeutic preschool program, assisting children with social and emotional developmental delays. This experience complements her academic pursuits and enhances her understanding of the challenges faced by young children and their families. Her commitment to supporting vulnerable populations is evident in her work and volunteer efforts.
Research and Clinical Experience
Cassandra Franke has gained valuable research and clinical experience through her work in a clinical psychology lab. In this setting, she focused on providing support to families exposed to trauma, particularly targeting pregnant women and mothers who have experienced intimate partner violence. This experience has equipped her with insights into the complexities of trauma and its effects on family dynamics, further informing her future aspirations in clinical neuroscience research.
Future Aspirations
Cassandra Franke aims to pursue graduate studies in clinical neuroscience research. Her experiences at Yale University and her academic background have prepared her for advanced studies in this field. She is particularly interested in exploring the intersection of neuroscience and mental health, with a focus on developing effective interventions for individuals impacted by trauma. Her dedication to this area of research reflects her commitment to improving mental health outcomes for children and families.