Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Katherine Pang.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Dr. Pang. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
My career has been varied and eclectic with a common theme – transformation, change, and growth. I began as a lawyer helping businesses start from ideas and grow into dynamic organizations when I realized there was a significant education component necessary for meaningful growth. I shifted my attention to cultivating and developing others through applied learning and was able to experience the gift of contributing to the growth of others professionally and personally. I realized there was an opportunity to facilitate growth through partnering with universities and started two companies, one in the ’90s and one in the ‘oos. The first was acquired and the second continues today working with partners to provide online continuing education programs. As part of this journey I realized that there was a significant need for metacognitive skill development (organization, planning, strategy, task-management, initiation, time-management, etc.). I also realized that there was a need for better ways to manage conflict, control impulses, and self-regulate. My interest in psychology and education merged and I chose to pursue a doctorate in psychology to learn more about cognitive processes, the brain, change, and personal growth. As a result I founded a practice in Lakewood, Lakewood Wellness Partners, which focuses on providing assessment, testing, and therapeutic services to all ages in the DFW area. We currently have four practitioners and have the privilege to work with many who want to grow and change in many different kinds of ways. We believe that a collaborative, integrative approach provides the best environment to assist others meet their personal growth goals. We also have a concierge division for on-site consulting for change services to organizations and families. It is a privilege to come along side others and help them forward in their growth journeys.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Roads are never solely smooth. I believe fundamentally that roads change as we proceed forward. I am currently watching the Tour de France, as I enjoy cycling, and as I watch the stages, I am reminded that each stage is different; some are mountainous (in the alps), others are flat ad fast, some are cobbly (as with the cobblestones), some are hilly, some have downhill segments with riders moving over 50mph. The riders have to have the skills and abilities to adjust to the different terrains and at times make in the moment decisions. Rider’s crash and some have to walk away while others continue forward. I have found that we may lack abilities or have never really developed them and I work with many who need someone who can help them develop the skills and build a personal toolbox to navigate the different segment of road in their lives. I have found that self-efficacy (the belief in oneself to do so, which can be cultivated and grown if undeveloped or underutilized) and resiliency (the ability to press on and overcome, which also can be cultivated and grown if undeveloped or underutilized) are critical to the ability to navigate the stages or segments or road in one’s life. Support, faith, capacity, individual resources (within self – not necessarily material) are also important to moving through and growing past struggles which are always a part of our road.
Please tell us about Lakewood Wellness Partners.
Lakewood Wellness Partners is here to help people in all stages and places in life make changes for personal growth and healing. Lakewood Wellness Partners uses solution-focused, psychological cognitive behavioral therapy and faith-based therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Lakewood Wellness Partners is committed to providing practical tools and techniques to foster forward movement into a healthier mental lifestyle and develop ways to overcome personal concerns and challenges. We have a unique model in that we are a collaborative, integrative practice. I have a background in neuropsychology and lifestyle medicine (I am not an MD nor a Board-certified neuropsychologist) and I have an APA accredited post-doctoral masters in Clinical Psychopharmacology (presently psychologists are not allowed to write prescriptions for medication) so I understand medication and can speak with prescribers to develop strategies for those who seek our services. Our practice works together to formulate individual treatment plans for each person and we are continually learning and growing personally so that we can provide evidence-based recommendations to those who come to use for change and growth.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
It is hard to choose but one of my favorite memories from childhood is time on the beach to feel the sand under my feet, watch the waves, observe the power of the ocean and the beauty of a changing sky. I think the beach is especially beautiful on a stormy day which is a great metaphor for viewing the storms of life – to help people find the hope in a storm.
Contact Info:
- Address: 6301 Gaston Avenue
Dallas, Texas 75214 - Website: http://www.lakewoodwellnesspartners.com
- Phone: 2145317624
- Email: kpang@lakewoodwellnesspartners.com
- Other: http://www.lighthousepsychtesting.com
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