Alumni Spotlight:
Q&A with Krystal Bowen

California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University
PsyD in Clinical Psychology
Los Angeles Campus

Professional Information

Licensed Psychologist at the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health

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

A: Alliant’s program has a reputation to influence well rounded and high-esteemed Psychologists countywide. Their rigorous and thought-provoking coursework, their regard towards diversity and cultural competency and their value of individuality among students are various ways of how Alliant has contributed to my professional work as a psychologist. My professional connections with my previous Professors have also helped develop connections within the community and have allowed opportunities within the field. I also appreciate the ability for case consultation with Professors who are actively working in their respective fields for an early Psychologist working independently; Alliant’s support and the dedication to ensure the success of the students/early Psychologist was most rewarding and inspiring. 

Q: What do you enjoy most about your work?

A: I enjoy the flexibility, the opportunities to promote in various roles, and the comprehensive opportunities to work in various settings as a psychologist. More importantly, I love that I get to inspire, offer hope, and help people make new discoveries on how to live a life of fulfillment and satisfaction. My work can be stressful and even taxing on my mind, but it does not compare to my ability to help alleviate emotional and mental suffering to increase one’s quality of life. Moreover, I am immensely intrigued with the chance to meet people from all lifestyles and to learn new perspectives from the lens of various backgrounds. It is intensely fascinating! 

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

A: I am inspired to be the difference; my work is my dedication to give back to the community. Since I have graduated from Alliant, I completed my internship at a Community Mental Health Clinic, and now I work as a Licensed Psychologist in Community Mental Health. The dire need for mental health services due to the oppressed conditions many people must endure in the inner-city communities is my inspiration to make a difference. Individuals without access to good healthcare, employment, quality education, and a community free of violence are susceptible and vulnerable to a disruption in their psyche, those individuals deserve to have a good quality of life, so, if I can make a difference in at least one person’s life by removing the mental and emotional barriers that prevents them from achieving the life he/she desires, then, I consider myself successful.      

Q: Any advice you have for current students.

A: Try to enjoy the journey, as it is only temporary, the homework..comps…practicums..and the stress of the coursework comes to an end.  Stay focused on the bigger picture, becoming a psychologist. 

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