Jacqueline Atkins

Jacqueline Atkins, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist who earned her doctoral degree in Clinical/Community Psychology from the University of South Carolina. Before coming to Optimist, she served as Vice President of Strengthening Families Programs at Children’s Institute (CII). In this previous role, she oversaw all of Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) contracts, several mental health programs as well as doctoral practicum placements, APA accredited internships, and postdoctoral fellowships.

Her primary interests include research, program evaluations, diversity issues, and data-informed practices. Dr. Atkins has presented at several industry conferences across the country. She is also an adjunct professor at Pepperdine in the Graduate School of Education and Psychology.