#United States #Inner Circle #Dr. Ashley Poklar #child wellness #Chagrin, Ohio

Dr. Ashley Poklar: A Leader in Child Wellness and Trauma Care

In an inspiring recognition of her dedication, Dr. Ashley Poklar has been acknowledged as a Pinnacle Professional Member by The Inner Circle, showcasing her substantial impact on child wellness and trauma care. Since joining The Inner Circle of Excellence, her commitment to transforming the landscape of child trauma care has caught the attention of professionals and advocates alike.

Professional Background

Dr. Poklar, a clinical director with The Sentinel Foundation since 2023, has taken significant strides to support vulnerable children through comprehensive trauma-informed care strategies. This role complements her ongoing work as the founder of A Poklar Ponders, where she emphasizes the importance of holistic approaches toward mental health interventions for children.

Her professional journey traces back to her roots in education, having first made her mark as a special education teacher. She taught in the Charleston County School District and the Positive Education Program, where her focus on inclusive education solidified her desire to pursue a career in counseling. Dr. Poklar completed an impactful clinical mental health internship in a Juvenile Detention Center's Mental Health Unit under the auspices of Cleveland Catholic Charities. This critical experience reinforced her commitment to advocating for high-risk youth and addressing their mental health needs.

Academic Achievements

Dr. Poklar's academic qualifications reflect her unwavering dedication. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Special Education from the esteemed College of Charleston, followed by a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and ultimately, a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Cleveland State University. Her research primarily focuses on trauma-informed care, child exploitation prevention, and the establishment of sustainable mental health interventions.

In recognition of her academic and professional excellence, Dr. Poklar has received several esteemed awards, including the Graduate Student Teacher of the Year Award from Cleveland State University and an Outstanding Teaching Award from Capella University. She also received the Pathfinder Award from Womelle, reflecting her significant contributions to the field.

Commitment to Advocacy

An active participant in professional associations, Dr. Poklar is a member of both the American Psychological Association and the American Counseling Association. Her commitment extends beyond her clinical roles; she is determined to raise awareness among parents, educators, and law enforcement on issues surrounding child exploitation. Her aim is to develop programs that promote effective aftercare services for victims of abuse both domestically and internationally.

Dr. Poklar's philosophy is centered on creating cost-effective and sustainable interventions that can result in systemic changes. She believes that through genuine care and comprehensive education, long-term transformations can be achieved, not only benefiting individuals but also uplifting entire communities.

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, Dr. Poklar is intent on further broadening her impact in the realm of child wellness. She envisions a future where her programs significantly contribute to decreasing instances of child trauma and exploitation. Her holistic and proactive approach aims to galvanize societal change, reinforcing her status as a leader in transforming child wellness and trauma care.

For further inquiries or to connect with Dr. Poklar, contact Katherine Green at 516-825-5634 or via email at [email protected].