Jenessa received her Honours Psychology degree (Bachelor of Arts) from the University of Windsor, and began the Clinical Psychology Program at the University of Waterloo in September 2020. In her current research with Dr. Kelly, she is exploring how a compassion-based intervention can help reduce the perception that experiencing negative emotions is unbearable in those who hold this belief.
Michelle received her Honours Psychology degree (Bachelor of Arts) from Simon Fraser University. She began the Clinical Psychology program at the University of Waterloo in September 2022. Broadly, her interests include how compassion-based interventions can promote the reduction of distress in self-critical individuals.
Monica received her Honours Bachelor of Knowledge Integration and her Honours Psychology (Bachelor of Arts) degrees from the University of Waterloo. She began the Clinical Psychology program at the University of Waterloo in September 2022. Broadly, her research interests include fear of self-compassion and how self-compassion is socially learned.
Emily (she/her) received her Honours Psychology Degree (Bachelor of Arts; minor in Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies) from the University of British Columbia and began the Clinical Psychology program in September 2025. In her current research with Dr. Kelly, she is exploring the relational aspects of self-compassion. Broadly, her research interests also include 2SLGBTQIA+ wellness and body image.