Empowering Change: Claire Ramacciotti's Journey in Psychology and Advocacy

Claire Ramacciotti, a junior at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), is making a significant impact through her academic pursuits and hands-on experience in the field of mental health.

"I think as a psychology major, there are so many options at UNO for psychology classes. I took both intro courses and abnormal psychology this past spring. I feel like everything I learned in that course was so helpful because these children are struggling with a lot of things,” said Ramacciotti.

With her combined studies in mental health and criminal justice, Ramacciotti is committed to understanding the complexities of human behavior and using that knowledge to help others. Her work at Project Harmony, a child advocacy center in Omaha, provides her with the opportunity to apply her education in a real-world setting, making a difference in the lives of children and families affected by trauma.

Tess Willis, family advocacy program manager at Project Harmony, has served as a mentor and advisor for Ramacciotti throughout her internship. Willis emphasized the benefit of having interns work hands-on in local nonprofits.

“Claire had a tremendous impact on Project Harmony. She was always eager to jump right in and learn more about the multiple different services within advocacy, all while bringing such a positive attitude to the families and staff, said Willis. “It is so important to have student perspectives at local nonprofits. Students bring such valuable ideas to nonprofits, and I love watching their growth during their time at Project Harmony.”

While at UNO, Ramacciotti has immersed herself in her studies, particularly in courses that explore psychological disorders, therapy techniques, and the effects of trauma on individuals. Her minor in criminal justice complements her psychology coursework by providing a deeper understanding of the legal aspects related to mental health, especially in the context of child welfare. This interdisciplinary approach has equipped Ramacciotti with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the challenges of her internship at Project Harmony.

During her time at Project Harmony, Ramacciotti has taken on various responsibilities that have allowed her to see firsthand the impact of trauma on children and their families. Her work involves assisting with case management, supporting children during interviews, and helping families access essential resources.

“There’s a ton to learn, and I was already familiar with the meanings of everything, types of therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT, and TFCBT because of my classes. I didn’t have to learn it all for the first time. Having that background was really helpful when learning how to do mental health navigation,” said Ramacciotti.

She credits her professors and coursework with providing her the tools to approach each case with empathy, sensitivity, and a solid understanding of the psychological impact of trauma.

Ramacciotti's internship at Project Harmony has also highlighted the importance of a supportive academic environment. The guidance and mentorship she has received from professors who specialize in mental health and trauma have been invaluable as she navigates her internship and plans for her future.

Looking ahead, Ramacciotti is considering pursuing a graduate degree in psychology, with the goal of becoming a licensed therapist specializing in trauma and child psychology. She is confident that her experiences at UNO and Project Harmony have prepared her well for the challenges and rewards of a career dedicated to helping others.

As Ramacciotti continues her education and professional development, she remains committed to making a positive impact in the field of mental health.