Knoxville Area Psychological Association
|
- Home
- News & Resources
- Member Spotlight - Rochette
Member SPOTLIGHT
Amber Rochette, Ph.D.
Amber Rochette, PhD, is a Geriatric Neuropsychologist at The Pat Summitt Clinic, part of The University of Tennessee Medical Center's Brain and Spine Institute. Dr. Rochette earned her Doctorate from Kent State University in 2019. After completing her Doctorate, she completed a postdoctoral fellowship in Clinical Neuropsychology from the University of Michigan/Veteran Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System Consortium. Her interests include:
ARochette@utmck.edu |
Ten Questions:
1. What was your first real job?:
I actually started my first job during high school at age 15. I worked at Winn Dixie (grocery store) as a cashier. As far as a first job within my profession—after completing my BA, I worked as a research assistant for a neurologist at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I conducted neuropsychological testing as part of a research protocol and worked with patients with movement disorders. I really credit this experience for jumpstarting my passion for neuropsychology and work with older adults.
2. What has been your favorite book and why?:
I am a Brene Brown fan. She has an audible, “The Power of Vulnerability,” that summarizes her work quite well. It is one of her recorded workshops, so a very easy listen. I find her work relevant professionally and personally, and re-listen to her work when I need a reminder to remain in my authenticity.
3. How do you describe your sense of humor?:
I like light-hearted humor and poking fun at myself, but I have never been witty or quick on my feet! In general, I enjoy satire and hate slapstick comedy- more John Oliver and less Will Ferrell.
4. What's your current focus in your work?:
I work at the Pat Summitt Clinic here in Knoxville, where I focus on the evaluation and treatment of patients with neurodegenerative conditions.
5. What kind of patient would you like to see more?:
I am fortunate to be doing exactly what I love- working with older adults.
6. What would you like KAPA to provide in the future?:
I am brand new to the area, so I still have a lot to learn about what KAPA currently provides! So far, I appreciate the connection to other providers in the area.
7. What guilty pleasure can you not live without?:
I have a MAJOR sweet tooth. I do not let a day pass without at least having a Reese’s peanut butter cup.
8. Name two people who have inspired you?:
1-My mentor throughout internship and postdoctoral fellowship, Julija Stelmokas (now at the Brooklyn VA). She has many amazing qualities, but what stands out to me is her compassion and her dedication to training new professionals in the field.
2- My grandmother. She always reminds me to keep my family at the top of my values.
9. What is a common point of frustration in your current work?:
The push to do more in less time. I have a preference to be thorough and take my time in my work.
10. What’s one thing - either psychology related or not - you learned in the last month?:
Did you know that it is estimated that 60-80% of the brain’s total neurons are in the cerebellum? So cool!