Get to Know LaSondra Wayne, PsyD (She|Her)
Staff Clinician
Dr. LaSondra Wayne (she/her) is a native of Detroit, Michigan. She earned a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Michigan School of Psychology, a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Western Michigan University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Kalamazoo College. As the embedded clinician at Lindner College of Business, Dr. Wayne is a generalist who deals with an array of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, academic distress, identity concerns, and trauma. As she has seen significant improvement when trust and quality of relationships have been addressed, her theoretical orientation is grounded in Relational Cultural Theory, which emphasizes a collectivistic approach to treatment, mutuality in relationships, and is strengths-based. Relational Cultural Theory is also grounded in promoting social justice and multiculturalism. Dr. Wayne has a personal mission to destigmatize help-seeking and encourages students to bring their whole self to treatment as it is understood that being a student is not their only identity.
When the work day is done, Dr. Wayne spends her time connecting with family and friends, attending charitable events, trying new recipes, and adding to her shoe collection. When weather permits she enjoys spending time outside grilling, getting her hands dirty in the garden, and lying on a blanket on the grass.
My favorite thing about working at CAPS: My favorite thing about working at CAPS is the diversity of strengths, interests, and perspectives among our team and the fact that everyone is passionate and dedicated to the mission. Each member of our team is student-focused and strives to expand their knowledge and skills in an effort to provide the best care possible. Also, as a Michigan native, CAPS has become my family here in Cincinnati. Most days, coming to work is truly like visiting friends.
What I do to take care of myself after a challenging day/time/situation: When faced with life’s challenges, I take care of myself by taking a moment to breathe, engaging in prayer, listening to motivational teachings and podcasts, and reaching out to family and friends for meaningful connection and support. I also try to prioritize tasks and afford myself grace and compassion. I tell myself that I am enough because I exist and not because of what I do or how I perform.
Something I like about myself: One of the main things I like about myself is my ability to love and accept myself and others in our humanity. I am able to connect with people who are different from me and remain nonjudgmental and diplomatic while being true to my values and who I am. I see the glass half full because it’s likely that I shared the other half or someone shared their portion with me. I also like that I can find meaning and purpose in most aspects of life. Even on the hardest of days, I can eventually find my soft landing in my faith and/or my community.