Samira Johnston
San Diego,CA
Summary
Psychology graduate with clinical experience supporting psychiatric and hospitalized older adult populations, including Spravato treatment coordination and collaboration with RNs and interdisciplinary clinical teams. Research experience in psychological well-being, cognition, and resilience, with a strong foundation in patient-centered care and evidence-based practice.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Psychiatric Medical Assistant
Headlight Health
San Diego, California
06.2026 - 10.2026
- Administered Spravato (esketamine) under established REMS protocols for patients with treatment-resistant depression, ensuring accurate dosing and safety compliance.
- Monitored patients before, during, and after treatment for changes in vital signs and mental status, identifying potential adverse effects to inform care decisions.
- Utilize electronic health record (EHR) systems to maintain accurate clinical documentation, coordinate patient care, and track treatment information.
- Managed medication inventory using Excel, ensuring accurate records of Spravato stock, doses administered, and expiration dates to support efficient treatment delivery.
Research Assistant
Loyola University Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
08.2025 - 05.2026
- Evaluated peer-reviewed research to identify gaps in existing literature, guiding future research directions.
- Collaborated in research meetings to develop study ideas, formulate research questions, and propose methodologies.
- Synthesized findings from diverse sources to enhance research discussions and support the development of future multi-method studies.
- Conducted literature reviews examining the relationships between positive emotions, cognitive functioning, psychological well-being, and resilience.
Sales Advisor
BODYROK Chicago
Chicago, IL
06.2025 - 05.2026
- Guided clients in selecting tailored fitness programs and classes, ensuring alignment with individual fitness goals.
- Assisted clients in selecting fitness packages tailored to individual goals and needs.
- Sold memberships and class packages through direct client engagement, enhancing customer satisfaction while managing front-desk operations and scheduling.
- Provided exceptional customer service to enhance client experience and satisfaction.
- Informed clients about fitness methodologies and class offerings on BODYROK’s unique fitness methodologies and class offerings.
Volunteer - Hospital Elder Life Program
RUSH University Medical Center
Chicago, IL
01.2025 - 05.2026
- Engaged hospitalized older adult patients in cognitive and social activities to enhance orientation, emotional well-being, and mitigate delirium risk.
- Built rapport with hospitalized patients through tailored interactions, adapting communication and activities to meet cognitive, emotional, and physical needs.
- Collaborated with RNs and interdisciplinary clinical staff across hospital units to enhance patient comfort and engagement.
- Communicated patient observations and changes in mood, behavior, engagement, and cognitive functioning to RNs and clinical staff to support patient care.
Mental Health Intern
Light of Loving Kindness
Chicago, IL
01.2025 - 05.2025
- Participated in community mental health initiatives to raise awareness of key concepts.
- Developed psychoeducational content to aid outreach efforts focused on teen mental health.
- Supported community outreach programs to enhance engagement and awareness.
- Assisted in organizing events to promote kindness and compassion initiatives.
- Coordinated volunteer schedules to ensure adequate staffing at events.
Tutor
Refugee FORA
Chicago, IL
01.2024 - 05.2024
- Tutored and mentored refugee students, enhancing academic performance and language skills while aiding cultural adaptation
- Facilitated group tutoring sessions to enhance language and academic skills.
- Developed individualized lesson plans for diverse learners in refugee communities.
- Created engaging educational materials tailored to students' cultural backgrounds.
- Fostered cross-cultural communication and deepened understanding of refugee educational and psychosocial challenges
Education
Master of Science - Sport Psychology
University of Europe, Madrid
Madrid, Spain07-2027
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Loyola University Chicago
Chicago, IL05-2026
Skills
- Patient assessment
- Vital signs and examinations
- Patient monitoring
- Clinical documentation
- Prescription refills
- Insurance authorizations
- Electronic health records (EHR)
- Inventory management
- Medical terminology proficiency
- Fluent in Spanish
Languages
- English, Native
- Spanish, Fluent
Timeline
Psychiatric Medical Assistant
Headlight Health
06.2026 - 10.2026
Research Assistant
Loyola University Chicago
08.2025 - 05.2026
Sales Advisor
BODYROK Chicago
06.2025 - 05.2026
Volunteer - Hospital Elder Life Program
RUSH University Medical Center
01.2025 - 05.2026
Mental Health Intern
Light of Loving Kindness
01.2025 - 05.2025
Tutor
Refugee FORA
01.2024 - 05.2024
Master of Science - Sport Psychology
University of Europe, Madrid
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Loyola University Chicago