Dr. Amina Simmons

Executive Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
amina.simmons@paradisevalley.edu

Dr. Simmons obtained her PhD in Counseling Psychology from the University of Miami; her dissertation focused on African American Women’s Experiences of Race-Based Traumatic Stress. She also holds a master's degree in Educational and Counseling Psychology from the University of Missouri-Columbia and a bachelor's degree in Psychology and Africana Studies from Pomona College.

Dr. Simmons is a multi-talented, lovable, and high energy researcher, clinician, and educator. She has experience serving demographically diverse populations in public and private colleges/universities, hospitals, community centers/clinics, and non profit organizations. Operating from a strengths-based model of partnership, Dr. Simmons utilizes therapeutic and participatory interventions to address both individual and historical trauma and resilience (from early childhood to present), with an emphasis on racial stress and women’s wellness.

Dr. Simmons believes collaborative conversations actualize change! In all she does, Dr. Simmons is committed to building strong relationships, where others feel empowered to access and maximize their potential, to align with their values and purpose.