Reflections from MOTHERMIND Scholars

“My life has been enriched by Amery's influence. I used my departmental professional funds to sign up for Amery’s 6-month MotherMind program and I have been absolutely loving it. Professional peer coaching can be a huge boost to one's morale (especially these days...) I have made really meaningful connections with colleagues, which helped me resolve a longstanding work dilemma.

I personally have found that the time/effort I've spent on the program is far outweighed by the dividends to my personal and professional development. If there was any time in our lives and careers where we had to be strong and to hold fast to our values, this may perhaps be it. Professional/peer coaching can be a great way to get support during these challenging times.”

- Andreana Benitez, PhD, Associate Professor of Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina

“MotherMind was a welcome opportunity for me to invest time and thought into my professional/career development amidst the steadfast support of an accomplished, authentic, smart group of moms who are going through some of the same challenges as a mom in academia. It helped me pause the hamster wheel of the day-to-day work-life balance and gain perspective on big and small issues in my career

I otherwise would not have taken the time to think about, from understanding my values to setting boundaries to gaining daily momentum on writing.”

-Assistant Professor, PhD

I’m thrilled to be a part of the MotherMind Cohort! We’ve only had two sessions but I already feel so validated and seen in this community of scientist mothers. In my first year as a tenure-track assistant professor, I’m quickly learning that academia can be incredibly isolating, particularly as a first-generation college student and a mother of young children. I feel fortunate to have this opportunity and learn alongside so many incredible women!”

-Melissa Eggen, PhD, MPH, Assistant Professor, University of Louisville

“I had the pleasure of attending a Professional Development & Group Coaching Workshop led by Amery Treble-Barna, PhD, PC, through WIB–Connecticut—and it delivered exactly the reset I didn’t know I needed.
Amery didn’t just facilitate a session—she led a powerful and energizing deep dive into leadership, values, and vision. Her framework pushed us to reflect with purpose, clarify what truly drives us, and take ownership of where we’re headed. The mini peer-coaching exercise was a standout—packed with insight, strategy, and real connection.

As someone who works at an academic institution—collaborating closely with scientists and research teams—and as co-chair of WWN at Yale (Working Women’s Networking), I found Amery’s approach both practical and transformative. I left with renewed clarity, actionable tools, and a sharp sense of direction.
For any woman navigating the demands of academic leadership or seeking to lead with more purpose and confidence—this is the kind of workshop you don’t want to miss.”

- Paula Maguina, MBA, Sr. Finance Research Manager, Yale University

“I had considered leaving my current job and medicine at the start of this year. MotherMind has changed this for me. I now feel more confident in my job and the impact I can and am already having. I feel supported by a network of peers and the University. This year has been transformative and I feel like I can undergone several years of growth in one. Amery has been an incredible leader in this process and has put so much time and effort into ensuring this outcome for all of us.”

-Assistant Professor, PhD

“Being in a group of peers with the same worries, anxieties is helpful in a way that is difficult to put into words. It is also helpful that they are not all in the same departments so comfort in sharing/being open. I have definitely seen improvement in my leadership skills as a result of the program--saying no in a way that feels comfortable to prioritize what is important; thinking of myself as a leader and how to lead others;

have used skills with both mentees and with my kids! I really enjoyed Amery sharing resources --books,etc., that even further built on skills. She also modeled self-promotion in a way that I feel we could emulate.”

-Associate Professor, MD, PhD

“WOW—I love it. The kickoff, the core sessions, the pre-work assignments—everything has been fantastic. I am actually looking forward to these sessions, which is a big shift for me. In the past with other activities like this, I would have started out motivated but eventually dreaded sessions and been unengaged because of my overwhelm in other areas. But your approach feels different.

Since transitioning to faculty, this is the first time I have felt like I might actually be able to make this all work for me – so thank you! (Thanks also for the calendar and time management tips you gave me—game changers --- I can’t wait to learn / hope we get to learn more things like that as well in MotherMind). Anyway - thank you for all of it.”

-Assistant Professor, PhD

Reflections from Workshop Clients

“Amery exceled in guiding our cohort, fostering a welcoming atmosphere that embraced vulnerability. Through adept communication and collaboration, she inspired and motivated all members to coach and uplift one another. She meticulously selected content and guided discussions, ensuring they were distinctly relevant to the dynamics of being a scientist and a mother, distinguishing this program from my prior leadership trainings.

The value of the connections established with fellow mom scientists and the effectiveness of the peer coaching approach are immeasurable.”

-Assistant Professor, PhD, DPT

“MotherMind has helped grow my confidence in my capabilities as a researcher and a mother. I feel supported to pursue new opportunities and a newfound sense of belonging in academia. Previously, I struggled to feel like I had what it takes to succeed in academia. Through MotherMind I have learned to lean into my values in all that I do at work and at home. This has translated into confidence in creating and owning my success and supporting other mothers in doing so.”

-Assistant Professor, MD

“I had the pleasure of attending a workshop led by Dr. Amery Treble-Barna, hosted by the Women in Bio mentoring committee. This was a highly anticipated event, based on discussions with Amery and reading about her program. The workshop was transformative and motivating. Amery created a warm and inviting safe space which allowed authentic connections to flourish.

Through guided reflection and thoughtful discussions, she helped participants identify and align their core values with their personal and professional lives in powerful and practical ways. Her facilitation encouraged openness, self-discovery, and mutual support, making space for real growth and actionable insights. She provided accessible and insightful prompts for peer-coaching, leadership identity, and self-compassion. I highly recommend Amery to anyone seeking a values-driven approach to professional development. Her programs are well suited for any environment, including academic and corporate organizations, and professional groups.

-Yashoda Sharma, PhD, Women In Bio Connecticut