Agatha Parks-Savage | Eastern Virginia Medical School (original) (raw)

Papers by Agatha Parks-Savage

Research paper thumbnail of Enhancing Interprofessional Relationships Between Nurses And Resident–Physicians In Graduate Medical Education

European Scientific Journal, ESJ, Aug 18, 2016

The culture of medicine in the United States has undergone and continues to experience substantia... more The culture of medicine in the United States has undergone and continues to experience substantial change. Those who provide medical education are being challenged to modify curricula and educational activities to engage residents and fellows in this new culture. In his 2007 Presidential Address to the Association of American Medical Colleges, Darrell Kirch, MD, spoke of the culture changes in medicine that are affecting the profession and the educational training programs. Academic medicine was historically defined as individualistic, autonomous, scholarly, expertcentered, competitive, focused, high-achieving, and hierarchical. The culture must now evolve to reflect collaboration, transparency, outcomes-focus, mutually accountable, team-based, service-oriented, and patient-centered. Knowing this, the culture of graduate medical education is now focusing on interprofessional skill building with its residents and fellows.

Research paper thumbnail of Program Evaluation: Providing Evidence-Based Practices for Violence Reduction in the Schools

Research paper thumbnail of Prevention of medical errors and malpractice: Is creating resilience in physicians part of the answer?

International Journal of Law and Psychiatry, 2018

In this article, we present key concepts regarding physician and resident resilience and burnout,... more In this article, we present key concepts regarding physician and resident resilience and burnout, the legal and educational context for these distinctions, and the effects of improved physician resilience through self-care on a reduction in medical errors and malpractice. Resilience here indicates the mental processes and behaviors that enable an individual to overcome the potential negative effects of stressors. In order to explore the multiple factors that contribute to physician resilience, the authors approached the topic from a variety of perspectives, including the current ways of thinking about medical malpractice in the United States, physician resilience and medical errors, and building resilience during postgraduate medical education. The authors review steps taken and in process to mitigate physician burnout and enhance physician resilience.

Research paper thumbnail of Hospice Care Needs Study

American journal of medical quality : the official journal of the American College of Medical Quality, 2018

Research paper thumbnail of Support Groups

The SAGE Encyclopedia of Theory in Counseling and Psychotherapy

Research paper thumbnail of Reducing Levels of School Violence with Peer Mediation

Research paper thumbnail of Reducing Levels of Elementary School Violence with Peer Mediation

Professional School Counseling, 2007

Research paper thumbnail of An examination of a gender-specific and trauma-informed training curriculum: Implications for providers

International Journal of Behavioral Consultation and Therapy, 2013

Residential group care facilities are experiencing an increase in the number of adolescent female... more Residential group care facilities are experiencing an increase in the number of adolescent females in these facilities who have high rates of childhood sexual abuse. The mental health needs of this population are often unrecognized and not treated, which often results in re-victimization. Residential care agencies are actively seeking competent direct care staff members to work with females who have been sexually traumatized. However, gender-specific and trauma-informed training curricula for direct care staff members have lacked clarity and effective implementation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a gender-specific and trauma-informed training curriculum for residential staff. It was hypothesized that participant knowledge score would be different after the training curricula in the treatment group; the pre knowledge score in the control group would remain the same after the treatment group; mean post knowledge would be different between the treatment group and control group; that there would be a significant difference of the post Survey of Knowledge scores between the treatment and control group; and that participant satisfaction score would be different after the training curricula in the treatment group. The participant scores showed some improvement prior to the training curriculum and there was a significant difference between the pre and post knowledge scores for the control group. While results showed that there was no significant difference between the scores of knowledge and retention between the treatment and control group, implications for counselors and recommendations for future studies were provided.

Research paper thumbnail of Are symptoms of anxiety and depression associated with colorectal screening perceptions and behaviors among older adults in primary care?

Open Journal of Preventive Medicine, 2014

Despite the existence of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening guidelines, population-based studies h... more Despite the existence of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening guidelines, population-based studies have consistently shown under-utilization of CRC screening procedures among older adults in the United States. We examined whether symptoms of anxiety and depression are associated with colorectal cancer (CRC) screening perceptions and behaviors among older adults in a primary care setting. A cross-sectional study was conducted by using a sample of 143 family medicine patients who completed an 88-item anonymous self-administered questionnaire covering symptoms of anxiety and depression as well as CRC screening perceptions (defined based on the Health Belief Model) and behaviors (defined as ever use of or adherence to CRC testing). Moderate-to-clinically significant anxiety and depressive symptoms were, respectively, prevalent in 47% and 42% of participants. Perceived benefits and barriers were the only Health Belief Model constructs associated with anxiety. Perceived barriers were positively associated with anxiety symptoms after adjustment for confounders, including age, gender, race/ ethnicity, marital status, education, smoking history, body mass index and self-rated health. By contrast, perceived benefits were negatively associated with anxiety symptoms only in the unadjusted model. Neither anxiety nor depression was associated with ever use of or adherence to CRC testing. Symptoms of anxiety, but not depression, may potentially influence CRC screening perceptions, with implications for behavioral interventions targeting CRC testing.

Research paper thumbnail of Teaching Social Skills in a Virtual Environment: An Exploratory Study

The Journal for Specialists in Group Work, 2009

This article reports on an exploratory study which examines the use of virtual environment techno... more This article reports on an exploratory study which examines the use of virtual environment technology as a tool to teach elementary school children social skills. Small group interventions were assessed to determine how the participants were measurably different on 7 different dependent variables: problem behaviors, academic competence, cooperation, assertiveness, responsibility, empathy, and self-control. The group intervention created measurable positive changes

Research paper thumbnail of Yoga during Pregnancy: A Review

American Journal of Perinatology, 2012

The purpose of this review article is to evaluate the peripartum outcomes of yoga during pregnanc... more The purpose of this review article is to evaluate the peripartum outcomes of yoga during pregnancy, including the postpartum period and lactation. The PubMed database was analyzed from January 1970 to January 2011. We identified five prospective observational studies (n = 575) and three randomized clinical trials (RCTs; n = 298), which were analyzed separately. The nonrandomized trials indicated a significant reduction in rates of preterm labor (p < 0.0006), intrauterine growth retardation (p <0.003), low birth weight (p < 0.01), pregnancy discomforts (p = 0.01), and perceived sleep disturbances (p = 0.03) in those who practiced yoga during pregnancy. Results of the RCTs indicated that doing yoga during pregnancy can significantly lower pain and discomfort (p < 0.05) and perceived stress (p = 0.001) and improve quality of life in physical domains (p = 0.001). All three RCTs were poorly compliant with the Consolidated Standard of Reporting Trials statement. While awaiting an appropriately designed RCT to determine the benefits of yoga during pregnancy, it remains a viable exercise option.

Research paper thumbnail of Nonsuicidal self-injury in an adolescent population in Singapore

Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 2012

This mixed methods study examined the phenomenon of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) of adolescents... more This mixed methods study examined the phenomenon of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) of adolescents in Singapore. The researchers analyzed quantitative data to understand the functions of NSSI, the relationship of parental invalidation to NSSI, and the association between academic stress and parental invalidation. In addition, the researchers employed semi-structured qualitative interviews to provide supportive qualitative data. The participants were outpatients at the Child Guidance Clinic, Singapore, between the ages of 13 to 19 years old. Researchers compared 30 participants who engage in NSSI with 30 participants who do not engage in NSSI. The emotional regulation function was the most commonly endorsed function for NSSI. Adolescents who engage in NSSI have statistically significant ( p < .01) higher mean parental invalidation scores than those who do not engage in NSSI. There is also a moderate, positive correlation between the level of parental invalidation and the level of a...

Research paper thumbnail of Nonsuicidal self-injury in an adolescent population in Singapore

Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 2012

This mixed methods study examined the phenomenon of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) of adolescents... more This mixed methods study examined the phenomenon of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) of adolescents in Singapore. The researchers analyzed quantitative data to understand the functions of NSSI, the relationship of parental invalidation to NSSI, and the association between academic stress and parental invalidation. In addition, the researchers employed semi-structured qualitative interviews to provide supportive qualitative data. The participants were outpatients at the Child Guidance Clinic, Singapore, between the ages of 13 to 19 years old. Researchers compared 30 participants who engage in NSSI with 30 participants who do not engage in NSSI. The emotional regulation function was the most commonly endorsed function for NSSI. Adolescents who engage in NSSI have statistically significant ( p < .01) higher mean parental invalidation scores than those who do not engage in NSSI. There is also a moderate, positive correlation between the level of parental invalidation and the level of a...

Research paper thumbnail of Promoting the Wellness of Physician-Residents: Counselor-Delivered Coaching

Current studies on coaching have largely been process- and outcomes-oriented while lacking a firm... more Current studies on coaching have largely been process- and outcomes-oriented while lacking a firm theoretical foundation on which to base skills and techniques. Coaching has been utilized in many settings in order to address employee work attitude and well-being. This article explores the effects of counselor-delivered coaching on the wellness of physician-residents. Counselors are trained in many of the skills that organically apply to coaching, and medical education programs can benefit from counselor-facilitated coaching as part of their graduate medical education program. Counselor-delivered coaching also can help residents reduce common stresses, mitigate negative patient outcomes, and avoid burnout. This increase in physician wellness is likely to result in decreased medical errors. For these reasons, the authors explore the use of basic counseling techniques in the context of coaching sessions involving medical school educators and residents, thereby bridging the gap between ...

Research paper thumbnail of Counselor Supervision in Jamaica: An Initial Exploration

The context and conceptualization of counselor supervision in Jamaica was explored using a mixed ... more The context and conceptualization of counselor supervision in Jamaica was explored using a mixed methods design. A majority of practicum supervisors (81%) from each of the four master’s level counseling programs in the country participated in the study. Descriptive survey data and individual interviews were used to explore current practices and gain perspective on future needs of the profession. Results indicate that the primary form of supervision provided is case consultation with groups of students and the supervisors indicate a need for more supervision training. Suggestions for training and development in supervision and direction for further research are discussed.

Research paper thumbnail of Immersion Into Faith and Culture: A Means of Developing Multicultural Counseling

Paper based on a program presented at the 2007 ACES Conference, October 13, 2007, Columbus, OH. R... more Paper based on a program presented at the 2007 ACES Conference, October 13, 2007, Columbus, OH. Rehfuss, Mark C., is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Counseling and Human Services at Old Dominion University. He is interested in teaching effectiveness, career counseling, mental health counseling and counselor training and education. He is licensed as a professional counselor (LPC) and is nationally credentialed as an Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS). Parks-Savage, Agatha, is an Associate Professor with the Department of Family & Community Medicine at Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia. She has been teaching in undergraduate, masters, and doctoral level psychology and counseling programs since 1991. She is licensed as a professional counselor (LPC) and is nationally credentialed as an Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS) and a forensic mental health evaluator. Malone, Arlene, is a graduate student in the School of Psychology & Counseling at Regent University...

Research paper thumbnail of Managing emotionally charged conversations between faculty and residents: a skill-building workshop

MedEdPublish

Background: Discussions with residents regarding remediation, probation, or dismissal are challen... more Background: Discussions with residents regarding remediation, probation, or dismissal are challenging, but only limited practical guidance about constructive conversations is available. Aims: To provide useful assistance to those who must conduct such conversations. Methods: Literature review, surveys, workshop development. Results: The workshop offers guidance about conducting challenging conversations, including opportunities for role playing. Conclusions: Development of the workshop is ongoing, and initial feedback recognizes its importance and applicability to help faculty manage challenging or confrontational conversations.

Research paper thumbnail of Enhancing Interprofessional Relationships Between Nurses And Resident–Physicians In Graduate Medical Education

European Scientific Journal, ESJ, Aug 18, 2016

The culture of medicine in the United States has undergone and continues to experience substantia... more The culture of medicine in the United States has undergone and continues to experience substantial change. Those who provide medical education are being challenged to modify curricula and educational activities to engage residents and fellows in this new culture. In his 2007 Presidential Address to the Association of American Medical Colleges, Darrell Kirch, MD, spoke of the culture changes in medicine that are affecting the profession and the educational training programs. Academic medicine was historically defined as individualistic, autonomous, scholarly, expertcentered, competitive, focused, high-achieving, and hierarchical. The culture must now evolve to reflect collaboration, transparency, outcomes-focus, mutually accountable, team-based, service-oriented, and patient-centered. Knowing this, the culture of graduate medical education is now focusing on interprofessional skill building with its residents and fellows.

Research paper thumbnail of Program Evaluation: Providing Evidence-Based Practices for Violence Reduction in the Schools

Research paper thumbnail of Prevention of medical errors and malpractice: Is creating resilience in physicians part of the answer?

International Journal of Law and Psychiatry, 2018

In this article, we present key concepts regarding physician and resident resilience and burnout,... more In this article, we present key concepts regarding physician and resident resilience and burnout, the legal and educational context for these distinctions, and the effects of improved physician resilience through self-care on a reduction in medical errors and malpractice. Resilience here indicates the mental processes and behaviors that enable an individual to overcome the potential negative effects of stressors. In order to explore the multiple factors that contribute to physician resilience, the authors approached the topic from a variety of perspectives, including the current ways of thinking about medical malpractice in the United States, physician resilience and medical errors, and building resilience during postgraduate medical education. The authors review steps taken and in process to mitigate physician burnout and enhance physician resilience.

Research paper thumbnail of Hospice Care Needs Study

American journal of medical quality : the official journal of the American College of Medical Quality, 2018

Research paper thumbnail of Support Groups

The SAGE Encyclopedia of Theory in Counseling and Psychotherapy

Research paper thumbnail of Reducing Levels of School Violence with Peer Mediation

Research paper thumbnail of Reducing Levels of Elementary School Violence with Peer Mediation

Professional School Counseling, 2007

Research paper thumbnail of An examination of a gender-specific and trauma-informed training curriculum: Implications for providers

International Journal of Behavioral Consultation and Therapy, 2013

Residential group care facilities are experiencing an increase in the number of adolescent female... more Residential group care facilities are experiencing an increase in the number of adolescent females in these facilities who have high rates of childhood sexual abuse. The mental health needs of this population are often unrecognized and not treated, which often results in re-victimization. Residential care agencies are actively seeking competent direct care staff members to work with females who have been sexually traumatized. However, gender-specific and trauma-informed training curricula for direct care staff members have lacked clarity and effective implementation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a gender-specific and trauma-informed training curriculum for residential staff. It was hypothesized that participant knowledge score would be different after the training curricula in the treatment group; the pre knowledge score in the control group would remain the same after the treatment group; mean post knowledge would be different between the treatment group and control group; that there would be a significant difference of the post Survey of Knowledge scores between the treatment and control group; and that participant satisfaction score would be different after the training curricula in the treatment group. The participant scores showed some improvement prior to the training curriculum and there was a significant difference between the pre and post knowledge scores for the control group. While results showed that there was no significant difference between the scores of knowledge and retention between the treatment and control group, implications for counselors and recommendations for future studies were provided.

Research paper thumbnail of Are symptoms of anxiety and depression associated with colorectal screening perceptions and behaviors among older adults in primary care?

Open Journal of Preventive Medicine, 2014

Despite the existence of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening guidelines, population-based studies h... more Despite the existence of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening guidelines, population-based studies have consistently shown under-utilization of CRC screening procedures among older adults in the United States. We examined whether symptoms of anxiety and depression are associated with colorectal cancer (CRC) screening perceptions and behaviors among older adults in a primary care setting. A cross-sectional study was conducted by using a sample of 143 family medicine patients who completed an 88-item anonymous self-administered questionnaire covering symptoms of anxiety and depression as well as CRC screening perceptions (defined based on the Health Belief Model) and behaviors (defined as ever use of or adherence to CRC testing). Moderate-to-clinically significant anxiety and depressive symptoms were, respectively, prevalent in 47% and 42% of participants. Perceived benefits and barriers were the only Health Belief Model constructs associated with anxiety. Perceived barriers were positively associated with anxiety symptoms after adjustment for confounders, including age, gender, race/ ethnicity, marital status, education, smoking history, body mass index and self-rated health. By contrast, perceived benefits were negatively associated with anxiety symptoms only in the unadjusted model. Neither anxiety nor depression was associated with ever use of or adherence to CRC testing. Symptoms of anxiety, but not depression, may potentially influence CRC screening perceptions, with implications for behavioral interventions targeting CRC testing.

Research paper thumbnail of Teaching Social Skills in a Virtual Environment: An Exploratory Study

The Journal for Specialists in Group Work, 2009

This article reports on an exploratory study which examines the use of virtual environment techno... more This article reports on an exploratory study which examines the use of virtual environment technology as a tool to teach elementary school children social skills. Small group interventions were assessed to determine how the participants were measurably different on 7 different dependent variables: problem behaviors, academic competence, cooperation, assertiveness, responsibility, empathy, and self-control. The group intervention created measurable positive changes

Research paper thumbnail of Yoga during Pregnancy: A Review

American Journal of Perinatology, 2012

The purpose of this review article is to evaluate the peripartum outcomes of yoga during pregnanc... more The purpose of this review article is to evaluate the peripartum outcomes of yoga during pregnancy, including the postpartum period and lactation. The PubMed database was analyzed from January 1970 to January 2011. We identified five prospective observational studies (n = 575) and three randomized clinical trials (RCTs; n = 298), which were analyzed separately. The nonrandomized trials indicated a significant reduction in rates of preterm labor (p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.0006), intrauterine growth retardation (p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.003), low birth weight (p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.01), pregnancy discomforts (p = 0.01), and perceived sleep disturbances (p = 0.03) in those who practiced yoga during pregnancy. Results of the RCTs indicated that doing yoga during pregnancy can significantly lower pain and discomfort (p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.05) and perceived stress (p = 0.001) and improve quality of life in physical domains (p = 0.001). All three RCTs were poorly compliant with the Consolidated Standard of Reporting Trials statement. While awaiting an appropriately designed RCT to determine the benefits of yoga during pregnancy, it remains a viable exercise option.

Research paper thumbnail of Nonsuicidal self-injury in an adolescent population in Singapore

Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 2012

This mixed methods study examined the phenomenon of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) of adolescents... more This mixed methods study examined the phenomenon of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) of adolescents in Singapore. The researchers analyzed quantitative data to understand the functions of NSSI, the relationship of parental invalidation to NSSI, and the association between academic stress and parental invalidation. In addition, the researchers employed semi-structured qualitative interviews to provide supportive qualitative data. The participants were outpatients at the Child Guidance Clinic, Singapore, between the ages of 13 to 19 years old. Researchers compared 30 participants who engage in NSSI with 30 participants who do not engage in NSSI. The emotional regulation function was the most commonly endorsed function for NSSI. Adolescents who engage in NSSI have statistically significant ( p < .01) higher mean parental invalidation scores than those who do not engage in NSSI. There is also a moderate, positive correlation between the level of parental invalidation and the level of a...

Research paper thumbnail of Nonsuicidal self-injury in an adolescent population in Singapore

Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 2012

This mixed methods study examined the phenomenon of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) of adolescents... more This mixed methods study examined the phenomenon of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) of adolescents in Singapore. The researchers analyzed quantitative data to understand the functions of NSSI, the relationship of parental invalidation to NSSI, and the association between academic stress and parental invalidation. In addition, the researchers employed semi-structured qualitative interviews to provide supportive qualitative data. The participants were outpatients at the Child Guidance Clinic, Singapore, between the ages of 13 to 19 years old. Researchers compared 30 participants who engage in NSSI with 30 participants who do not engage in NSSI. The emotional regulation function was the most commonly endorsed function for NSSI. Adolescents who engage in NSSI have statistically significant ( p < .01) higher mean parental invalidation scores than those who do not engage in NSSI. There is also a moderate, positive correlation between the level of parental invalidation and the level of a...

Research paper thumbnail of Promoting the Wellness of Physician-Residents: Counselor-Delivered Coaching

Current studies on coaching have largely been process- and outcomes-oriented while lacking a firm... more Current studies on coaching have largely been process- and outcomes-oriented while lacking a firm theoretical foundation on which to base skills and techniques. Coaching has been utilized in many settings in order to address employee work attitude and well-being. This article explores the effects of counselor-delivered coaching on the wellness of physician-residents. Counselors are trained in many of the skills that organically apply to coaching, and medical education programs can benefit from counselor-facilitated coaching as part of their graduate medical education program. Counselor-delivered coaching also can help residents reduce common stresses, mitigate negative patient outcomes, and avoid burnout. This increase in physician wellness is likely to result in decreased medical errors. For these reasons, the authors explore the use of basic counseling techniques in the context of coaching sessions involving medical school educators and residents, thereby bridging the gap between ...

Research paper thumbnail of Counselor Supervision in Jamaica: An Initial Exploration

The context and conceptualization of counselor supervision in Jamaica was explored using a mixed ... more The context and conceptualization of counselor supervision in Jamaica was explored using a mixed methods design. A majority of practicum supervisors (81%) from each of the four master’s level counseling programs in the country participated in the study. Descriptive survey data and individual interviews were used to explore current practices and gain perspective on future needs of the profession. Results indicate that the primary form of supervision provided is case consultation with groups of students and the supervisors indicate a need for more supervision training. Suggestions for training and development in supervision and direction for further research are discussed.

Research paper thumbnail of Immersion Into Faith and Culture: A Means of Developing Multicultural Counseling

Paper based on a program presented at the 2007 ACES Conference, October 13, 2007, Columbus, OH. R... more Paper based on a program presented at the 2007 ACES Conference, October 13, 2007, Columbus, OH. Rehfuss, Mark C., is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Counseling and Human Services at Old Dominion University. He is interested in teaching effectiveness, career counseling, mental health counseling and counselor training and education. He is licensed as a professional counselor (LPC) and is nationally credentialed as an Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS). Parks-Savage, Agatha, is an Associate Professor with the Department of Family & Community Medicine at Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia. She has been teaching in undergraduate, masters, and doctoral level psychology and counseling programs since 1991. She is licensed as a professional counselor (LPC) and is nationally credentialed as an Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS) and a forensic mental health evaluator. Malone, Arlene, is a graduate student in the School of Psychology & Counseling at Regent University...

Research paper thumbnail of Managing emotionally charged conversations between faculty and residents: a skill-building workshop

MedEdPublish

Background: Discussions with residents regarding remediation, probation, or dismissal are challen... more Background: Discussions with residents regarding remediation, probation, or dismissal are challenging, but only limited practical guidance about constructive conversations is available. Aims: To provide useful assistance to those who must conduct such conversations. Methods: Literature review, surveys, workshop development. Results: The workshop offers guidance about conducting challenging conversations, including opportunities for role playing. Conclusions: Development of the workshop is ongoing, and initial feedback recognizes its importance and applicability to help faculty manage challenging or confrontational conversations.