Research

Self-Modeling and Educational Technology

Self-modeling interventions can be uniquely delivered and feasibly implemented across healthcare, school, and home settings. Johanna's research on self-modeling, including her dissertation project: Virtual Reality Self-Modeling as an Intervention for Stuttering, seeks to add insight into the mechanisms self-modeling delivery modalities by examining the role of immersion, or feeling of physical presence, as a mediator of learning, memory, cognition, and emotion. Results of this work have widespread implications for the use of self-modeling and use of technology across a variety of settings and disciplines. This research is particularly salient because of the need for evidence supporting the use of digital intervention delivery during a time where technology is rapidly evolving. Now more than ever, school psychologists are being asked to provide professional opinion on app-based or other digital interventions being utilized by teachers, parents, and professionals. Johanna's research fills a critical gap in the knowledge surrounding digitally implemented interventions and will provide practitioners the evidence needed to consult on best practices in digital intervention delivery.

Mind-Body Health

Johanna's mind-body health research seeks to understand the role that psychological interventions can play in facilitating physiological well-being, particularly in the school setting. Her research has culminated in presentations, and publications on interventions such as relaxation and guided imagery, culturally sensitive meditation, yoga, and progressive muscle relaxation. Building a sound evidence base to substantiate the use of mind-body health treatments is timely due public interest and media influence driving current widespread implementation of these practices. Similarly, the nature of mind-body health practices lend themselves towards the creation of feasible, easily implemented interventions.

Johanna's collaborative and interdisciplinary work  has resulted in a generative program of research and publication across disciplines. The future of her research will combine investigation of digital content delivery with implementation of mind-body health interventions. Following this research trajectory will contribute to the repertoire of evidence-based interventions implemented to promote positive student outcomes in line with legal mandates outlined in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and No Child Left Behind.