The McQueary College of Health and Human Services (MCHHS) is proud to feature Dr. Sara Wilson and Dr. Kristen Thompson, assistant professors in the School of Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences.
Together, they are shaping future clinical psychologists through Missouri State University’s Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) program, focusing on trauma-informed care and resilience.
Let’s get to know them better.
Where are you originally from?
Wilson: I’m from Springfield, Missouri.
Thompson: I grew up in St. Charles, Missouri.
What brought you to Missouri State and how long have you been here?
Wilson: I’ve worked in clinical psychology for nearly 15 years and have been drawn to teaching, supervision and clinical training. I joined Missouri State in fall 2024 after seeing the PsyD program as the perfect way to combine my passions for practice, education and mentorship.
Thompson: I’m a proud Missouri State alum and was excited to return as a faculty member. After working for years as a clinician and administrator in community mental health, I wanted a change. Teaching and training were always my favorite parts of my roles. When I saw that the PsyD program needed faculty to help develop the program, I knew it was the perfect fit.
Can you share your academic journey?
Wilson: I earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Missouri State in 2007. I completed my master’s degree in 2010 and my Doctor of Clinical Psychology degree in 2012 at Forest Institute.
Thompson: I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in criminology from Missouri State in 2009 and my PhD in Clinical Psychology from Northern Illinois University in 2016.
What inspired you to pursue a career in clinical psychology?
Wilson: I’ve always been fascinated by how people think, feel and make meaning of their experiences. Clinical psychology drew me in because it combines science, compassion and the opportunity to help others heal and grow through adversity.
Thompson: My path to clinical psychology evolved during my undergraduate years as I explored several careers. I eventually figured out that clinical psychology offered the perfect combination for me: the intellectual challenge of understanding why people think, feel and behave as they do, paired with the opportunity to apply that knowledge in working directly with others.
Where did you work prior to Missouri State?
Wilson: I worked as system director of clinical education at Burrell Behavioral Health, leading trauma-informed care initiatives, clinical training and consultation across the system.
Thompson: I worked at Burrell Behavioral Health for seven years as director of pediatric integration and co-founder of the Youth Focus Clinic.
What excites you most about being part of the PsyD program at Missouri State?
Wilson: It’s exciting to be part of building a strong, high-quality program alongside such dedicated psychologists. Most of all, I’m inspired by our students — the chance to mentor, support and learn with them is what truly brought me to Missouri State.
Thompson: Working with students is easily the best part. My professors deeply influenced who I am and how I’ve moved through my career. I’m grateful to have the opportunity to pass on that mentorship by helping students grow personally and professionally.
How do you engage doctoral students in the classroom?
Wilson: I want learning to feel meaningful and connected for my students. I strive to create a supportive space where students can show up authentically, take risks and see how what they learn applies to real clinical work.
Thompson: I don’t think it’s possible for graduate students to learn every theory or technique, so I focus on teaching them how to evaluate research on their own and develop skills in new areas. We analyze research studies, discuss central themes and mechanisms of action and make connections across theories and treatments. We do role plays and give feedback, not to master a specific skill, but rather to master the skill of mastering skills. I want them leaving my classes thinking, ‘I may not know everything about this approach, but I know how to learn it, evaluate it critically and figure out if it’s right for this situation.’
What research areas or clinical interests do you focus on?
Wilson: My clinical and research focus is trauma and trauma-informed care. With Dr. Thompson, I co-lead the Resilience and Connection Collective, guiding projects with real-world impact, from ROTC training to ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) research and community initiatives.
Thompson: Like Dr. Wilson, I focus on early adversity and trauma-informed strategies. One project that I’m especially excited about is our development of a trauma-informed leadership training with Lt. Col. Kyle Reeves and the ROTC program.
Outside of work, what’s your favorite way to spend your time?
Wilson: I love spending time with my family and pets, being outdoors, listening to music and reading. Those moments help me recharge and stay grounded.
Thompson: Traveling with my family and exploring national parks. We’ve visited 11 so far and plan to reach number 12 soon!
What might surprise people about you?
Wilson: Despite striving to be warm and reflective in my work, I can be fiercely competitive, especially during board games or trivia nights.
Thompson: I’m a mom to four and a pediatric psychologist, yet I’m really not a fan of cartoons. I’m not a Disney lover and I especially don’t like adult cartoons. Comedies, yes. Kids books, absolutely. I can’t really put my finger on it, but I’ve always felt this way.
