Open Search
Open Navigation

Alumni Spotlight:
Q&A with Dylan Ross

California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University
MA and PhD in Organizational Psychology
San Francisco Campus

Professional Information

Vice President of Clinical Innovations at Rogers Behavioral Health in Denver, CO


Q: How did your Alliant experience contribute to your career growth?

A: My experience in the Organizational Psychology doctoral program in the California School of Professional Psychology (CSPP) prepared me well to join the field as both a practitioner and a researcher. The dedicated faculty within the program brought decades of real-world experience into the classroom enriching the academic experience through case studies and applied learning. Through field-based practicums and internships, I was able to accelerate my career growth through a diversity of organizational opportunities. My doctoral training as an Organizational Psychologist continues to create professional opportunities, including preparing me well for my new role as Vice President, Clinical Innovations with Rogers Behavioral Health. I am appreciative for the intellectual and practical learning I gained at CSPP that has prepared me for this next professional chapter.  

Q: What do you enjoy most about your work?

A: Innovation unto itself, is exciting. It works in the realm of possibility and challenges current paradigms when considering assumptions about problems and solutions. Working in innovation to solve problems of importance, such as those faced in behavioral health, keeps me engaged and enjoying the work I do day to day. Innovation also invites in multiple perspective, which is essential for equitable growth.

Q: What inspires you to make a positive difference in the world?

A: Healthcare as a “system” within our country is fragmented, complex, and, in its current state, is designed in ways that perpetuate disparities in health outcomes in communities with the greatest need. Behavioral health in particular highlights the current design failures that are perpetuating inequity. Reasons for such disparaging gaps are many and the opportunity for improvement and inclusivity in the area endless. I see innovation within the behavioral healthcare space as a priority of critical importance, not only from clinical perspective – but also from a social justice and equity perspective. It is a privilege to work in the field at this time given the relearning and unlearning that is occurring in our country when it comes health equity and stigma related to mental health and addictions. Helping to reimagine how healthcare is conceived and delivered is deeply rewarding and inspires me. 

Q: Any advice you have for current students.

A: Take full advantage of your student status. Doors from leaders not only open more frequently when in a student role, but also wider. Reach out to those in the field you’d like to meet, observe, and learn from. Network, stay curious, and push your comfort zone. Set intentions around outreaching professionals and informational interviewing. Participate in as many field-based projects as possible. Most learn best through doing and active practice. Fall in love with problems that you care deeply about. Such a love promotes engagement in life and work. Be vulnerable and allow yourself to learn – don’t rush this. Seek out organizations and teams that prioritize learning and foster psychological safety. Overall, have fun – humor and levity are required for the toughest of life’s challenges.

 


If you would like to share your reflections in an Alliant alumni spotlight, please click here or email alumni@alliant.edu.

You might also like

Back to Blog
Learn More
therapist talking to a couple

Pros and Cons of Being a Marriage and Family Therapist

There are numerous reasons people seek a marriage and family therapist. Among them are improving their family relationships or...

Learn More
woman talking in group meeting

How to Become an Industrial-Organizational Psychologist

If you love both commerce and psychology, it can be hard to choose between the two when deciding on a career path. Both fields can...

Learn More
woman explaining to two co-workers

Change Management vs. Change Leadership: Key Differences

In today’s highly competitive business environment, adapting to change is often what separates successful companies from...

Request Information

  • 1
    Current Select Interests
  • 2
    Provide Information