Episode #18: Navigating Life's Unexpected Paths: Dr. Allyson Troxel-Galang's Journey from Art to Psychology and Mindfulness

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From the Midwest heartlands to the sunny shores of California, Dr. Allyson Troxel-Galang's journey is nothing short of transformative. Imagine a young woman juggling art classes at Diablo Valley College and shifts at IHOP, all while dreaming of being a kindergarten teacher. Little did she know, her experiences would guide her towards a passion for psychology and statistics, ultimately reshaping her career and academic pursuits. Join us as Dr. Troxel-Galang shares how she navigated life's curveballs, harnessed the power of curiosity, and crafted a unique interdisciplinary studies field major that combined health and human consciousness.
Dr. Troxel-Galang's story is a testament to the unexpected paths one can take in education and life. Her transition from art and early childhood education to studying psychology at UC Berkeley demonstrates the invaluable role of adaptability and support programs for student parents and reentry students. Along the way, she balanced academic achievements with family responsibilities, highlighting the importance of resilience and leveraging resources. Her experiences aren't just about academia; they also shed light on the profound personal growth that comes with customer service roles and professional development in fields like mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy.
In the final chapter of our conversation, we explore the intricate layers of trauma, therapy, and mentorship through Dr. Troxel-Galang's work at the Batrix clinic in Berkeley. Her insights into the varied forms of trauma, from military experiences to community violence, reveal the complexities of mental health care. By employing mindfulness interventions, she aims to foster post-traumatic growth, helping clients reconnect with their intrinsic value and purpose. This episode isn't just an exploration of Dr. Troxell-Galang's journey—it’s an invitation to appreciate life's opportunities and the myriad paths to personal and professional fulfillment.

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Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success.
DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.

Chapter

1. Episode #18: Navigating Life's Unexpected Paths: Dr. Allyson Troxel-Galang's Journey from Art to Psychology and Mindfulness (00:00:00)

2. Education Journey (00:01:37)

3. Exploring Academic Pathways at DVC (00:16:03)

4. Navigating Opportunities in Education (00:22:33)

5. Trauma, Therapy, and Mentorship (00:30:18)

6. Life Experience and Academic Exploration (00:41:09)