What We Do

Our research focuses on examining the intersection between psychology, law, and trauma, particularly for underserved populations. This includes evaluating the effectiveness and appropriateness of psychological and forensic assessment and intervention methods in mental health, child welfare, and criminal justice settings, as well as working with mental health and criminal justice professionals to create trauma-informed policy and implement evidence-based, trauma-informed practices. In addition, we are always interested in contributing to best practices in the teaching and training of emerging psychology and law professionals. 

The lab is housed in Purdue University Northwest and is directed by Dr. Amanda Zelechoski. 

 Who We Are

Amanda D. Zelechoski, J.D., Ph.D., ABPP

Dr. Amanda Zelechoski is a licensed clinical and forensic psychologist and attorney, specializing in trauma. She is a Professor of Psychology and the Director of Clinical Training at Purdue University Northwest, where she conducts research on the impact of childhood trauma at the intersection of psychology, law, and public policy.

She is board certified in Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology, has worked clinically with adults, children, and families, and provides training and consultation to numerous mental health, legal, educational, and child welfare agencies.

Dr. Zelechoski is also the co-founder of the nonprofit organization Pandemic Parenting. In 2021, she hosted and produced the limited-run audio series Roadmap to Resilience along with Dr. Julian Ford . Roadmap to Resilience is a collaboration between Pandemic Parenting and the University of Connecticut School of Medicine Center for the Treatment of Developmental Trauma Disorders, with special thanks to the Inter-Organizational Child Trauma Task Force.

Lab Alumni

Graduate Students

  • Agata Freedle

  • Alexandria Rans

  • Amanda Tuohy

  • Candace Veitas

  • Carly Hanks

  • Christina Severino

  • Holly Harris

  • Jessica Del Re

  • Jillian Scheer

  • Karolina Buczek

  • Kaylee Will

  • Kirian Harrison

  • Laura Cempel

  • Lauren (Eyman) Lofrano

  • Lindsay Hrebic

  • Olivia Gorman

  • Robin Stephen

  • Rose (Clapper) Leuhrs

  • ​Sarah Wurster

  • Tara Davis

Undergraduate Students

  • Alexandra Katsahnias

  • Annaliise Hayrynen

  • Ashley Winiewicz

  • Chloe Castellucio

  • Elizabeth Hostetler

  • Emily Owens

  • Holly Buckman

  • Jaqueline Garcia

  • Jared Joseph

  • Lori Heusel

  • Matthew Aberman

  • Patrick MacDonnell

  • Rachel Lindsay

  • Samantha Murphy

  • Samantha Schmidt

  • Sarah Braun

  • Sydney Stokes

  • Zoe Fischer