In a momentous achievement, Ellica Matthews has officially earned her Doctorate in Psychology, marking a significant milestone in her academic and professional journey. Dr. Matthews was recognized in a virtual commencement ceremony on Saturday, 25th January 2025. It was a proud moment for Matthews, her family, friends, and the community.
Dr. Matthews’ journey to this pinnacle of academic success was fueled by a deep passion for Mental Health and a commitment to fostering mental well-being. Her research, which focused on Women’s Mental Health was titled “A Proactive Approach to Women’s Mental Health”. Sharing an excerpt from her project, Matthews shared
Women in addition to being nurturers, providers, caregivers, spouses, mothers, daughters, friends, and partners also have professional roles that they show up for daily. A study on women’s mental health will not only prove beneficial to women but will provide invaluable insights for the stakeholders in women’s mental health. Research can indicate women’s challenges and experiences and help tailor interventions, resources, and support.
“Pursuing a doctorate has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences of my life,” Dr. Matthews shared. “It’s not just about the title; it’s about contributing to a field that can change lives and help individuals navigate their challenges.” In her dedication, there was a big thank you to the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, who have entrusted her with providing them with mental health support over the years. This has fueled her quest for continued learning.
A native of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Matthews has been dedicated to continued education over the years. She has a Bachelor’s in Psychology from St. George’s University, a Master’s in Clinical Psychology with a Specialization in Counselling from Walden University, and she now holds a Doctorate in Psychology (Magna Cum Laude) from California Southern University. She has also done certificate courses over the years, which include Leadership and Management in Health, Global Mental Health, and Psychological First Aid in Disaster Management in the Caribbean.
Matthews has worked at the Mental Health Rehabilitation Center for the last 8 years and is no stranger to many Vincentians. She is often on the radio, television, social media, and our very own ANN, highlighting mental health, bringing awareness to mental health, and providing insight on how persons can improve their mental wellness.
Matthews began her Doctoral educational journey in February 2020. She shared that the following month, she began working on the COVID-19 Taskforce while doing her studies. Matthews completed her Degree through a Pandemic, Volcano Eruption, Category 4 Hurricane, and other national emergencies, in addition to her work duties at the Mental Health Rehabilitation Center. She provided psychosocial support during these emergencies, which speaks to her dedication to her work as a mental health professional and time management over the years.
Matthews extended heartfelt gratitude to all who made this journey possible from start to completion. First and foremost, she is immensely grateful to her Chair Dr. Stephanie Witt for her unwavering guidance, insights, and support through this process. She also thanked her committee members, Dr. Misti Anderson, and Dr. Caleigh Moskal, for their thoughtful feedback, expertise, and support. Matthews thanked her colleague Adrian James, for his camaraderie, intellectual discussions, and shared experience that enriched this journey.
A heartfelt thank you is also extended to all of the professional women who participated and provided data for her Doctoral Project on ‘A Proactive Approach to Women’s Mental Health’.
Matthews expressed gratitude to the key figures who supported her on her personal and professional doctoral journey. She is thankful to her family and friends for all of their encouragement and support over the years, even on the days when she was exhausted by her competing schedules. Their understanding and constant encouragement gave her the strength to persevere. For the moments that she was absent or did not have the energy on this journey, she is thankful for their understanding. “To my parents, Sandra and Ellick Matthews, sister Shanelle, brother Saniel, friends and colleagues Aliaka, Deah, Jadese, Odelia, Roselle, Shunnell, Rachel, Jomelia, and Aunty Ruby, thank you for encouraging me, you kept me focused, motivated and distracted when things became overwhelming”. Thank you!
Lastly, Matthews is thankful for God’s guidance and blessings during this entire journey, which has kept her strong and focused. She noted when words and motivation failed her on many difficult days; God heard her heart.
Dr. Matthews hopes her story will inspire others to pursue their dreams, especially young women in underrepresented fields. “Believe in yourself, even when it gets tough,” she advised. “Every challenge is an opportunity to grow and learn.” She often speaks about dedication, patience, and persistence when setting and achieving goals, and she is now a living example of how hard work and dedication pay off.
As Dr. Ellica Matthews embarks on this next chapter, her accomplishment stands as a testament to resilience, dedication, and the power of education to transform lives. Her community eagerly anticipates the impact she will continue to make, both locally and beyond.
Congratulations, Dr. Matthews!