Dr. Brittany Dale | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Brittany Dale | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Associate professor Ball State University, United States

Dr. Brittany A. Dale is a tenured Associate Professor of Special Education at Ball State University, specializing in autism spectrum disorders and school psychology. With a Ph.D. in School Psychology and post-doctoral training in neurodevelopmental disabilities, she has built a distinguished academic and clinical career. Dr. Dale has authored over 25 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals, focusing on autism assessment, cognitive profiling, and interprofessional collaboration in educational settings. Her work bridges research and practice, addressing real-world challenges such as virtual assessment and equity in psychoeducational evaluations. In addition to her research, she actively mentors graduate students, teaches specialized courses in autism, and serves as a licensed psychologist and independent school psychologist. Her scholarly contributions demonstrate a sustained commitment to advancing knowledge, improving practices, and fostering inclusive education for neurodiverse populations. Dr. Dale’s impactful, interdisciplinary work positions her as a strong candidate for recognition through the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile
ORCID Profile 

Education

Dr. Brittany A. Dale holds a Ph.D. in School Psychology from Ball State University, completed in 2009, with a specialization in counseling. Her doctoral program was APA-accredited, and her dissertation focused on cognitive assessment across diverse preschool populations. She also earned an M.A. in School Psychology from Ball State University (2006), within a NASP-accredited program, and a B.A. in Psychology from Northwestern University (2004). Following her doctorate, Dr. Dale completed a post-doctoral fellowship through the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (LEND) Program at the Indiana University School of Medicine. This intensive 2000-hour fellowship emphasized assessment of autism and other neurodevelopmental disabilities. Additionally, she completed a 2000-hour APA-accredited pre-doctoral internship at Cummins Behavioral Health. Her rigorous and diverse academic preparation laid the foundation for her interdisciplinary expertise in education, clinical psychology, and autism spectrum disorders, establishing her as a qualified and well-rounded scholar-practitioner in the field of special education and psychological assessment.

Professional Experience

Dr. Brittany A. Dale has built a robust professional career integrating academia, clinical practice, and school-based psychology. She currently serves as a tenured Associate Professor of Special Education at Ball State University, where she has taught since 2010 in various faculty roles. Her teaching includes both graduate and undergraduate courses focused on autism, assessment, and intervention. Previously, she served as a graduate advisor and has mentored numerous students in the areas of special education and applied behavior analysis. Clinically, Dr. Dale has worked for nearly a decade as a licensed psychologist at the Center for Psychological Development, conducting comprehensive assessments and supervising doctoral students. She also serves as an independent contract school psychologist with Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation, providing psychoeducational evaluations in early childhood education. Her career reflects a unique and impactful blend of teaching, clinical practice, and applied research that directly supports children with disabilities and the professionals who serve them.

Research Interest

Dr. Dale’s research interests center on autism spectrum disorder (ASD), cognitive and psychoeducational assessment, and the intersection of school psychology with interdisciplinary collaboration. She is particularly focused on improving diagnostic practices and treatment planning for children with autism and other developmental disabilities. Her work often addresses real-world challenges such as tele-assessment, cultural considerations in evaluation, and educational service delivery for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students. Dr. Dale has also contributed to the literature on assessment tools like the WISC-V, Bayley-4, and WAIS-5, frequently collaborating with national experts on cognitive development and standardized testing. She explores both quantitative and qualitative approaches to enhance diagnostic precision and educational outcomes. Additionally, she examines the implementation of social-emotional learning strategies and individualized education plans (IEPs) through school-based consultations. Dr. Dale’s research is not only academically rigorous but also deeply rooted in practice, with strong implications for policy, clinical protocols, and educational interventions.

Award and Honor

While specific named awards are not listed in the CV, Dr. Brittany Dale’s academic and professional track record reflects recognition through sustained tenure, peer-reviewed publications, and collaborative projects with leading scholars in psychology and education. Being promoted to tenured Associate Professor at Ball State University signifies institutional recognition of her contributions to teaching, research, and service. Her inclusion as a co-author in high-impact journals, such as Psychology in the Schools, Journal of Intelligence, and Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, reflects strong peer endorsement of her research quality. Dr. Dale has collaborated with esteemed psychologists such as Alan S. Kaufman, further validating her credibility in the field. Additionally, she has served as a content specialist for autism-focused coursework, underscoring her expertise. While formal awards might enhance visibility, her ongoing publication record and leadership in autism assessment position her as a distinguished contributor worthy of competitive research accolades such as the Best Researcher Award.

Conclusion

Dr. Brittany A. Dale exemplifies the qualities of a well-rounded academic researcher, clinical practitioner, and educator. With a solid educational foundation, she has translated her training into a career of meaningful impact in special education, autism assessment, and school psychology. Her prolific research output—covering timely and practice-oriented topics—demonstrates a deep commitment to advancing both science and service for neurodiverse populations. Her ability to integrate clinical expertise, university teaching, and collaborative scholarship sets her apart as a leader in the field. Dr. Dale’s work is characterized by academic rigor, real-world relevance, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Though not widely decorated with traditional awards, her scholarly reputation is evident through publication, institutional advancement, and professional licensing. She stands out as a dedicated scholar whose research has direct implications for educators, clinicians, and families. As such, Dr. Dale is a highly suitable candidate for recognition through the Best Researcher Award and similar honors.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Dyadic mechanisms of effect in home–school consultation: Evidence from two school-based consultation models

    • Authors: Brittany A. Dale, Lindsey N. Ogle, Lisa A. Ruble, Gazi F. Azad

    • Year: 2025

  • Title: Does the Degree of Prematurity Relate to the Bayley‑4 Scores Earned…

    • Authors: Emily L. Winter, Jacqueline M. Caemmerer, Sierra M. Trudel, Johanna deLeyer-Tiarks, Melissa A. Bray, Brittany A. Dale, Alan S. Kaufman

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 1

  • Title: Assessment for DHH With Additional Disabilities (Book Chapter)

    • Authors: Nena R. Neild, Brittany A. Dale, Michael Fitzpatrick

    • Year: 2023

  • Title: Integrating evaluation data to enhance treatment planning for students with ASD

    • Authors: Melissa A. Bray, Brittany A. Dale

    • Year: 2023

  • Title: Performance of children with ASD on the WISC‑V ancillary index scales

    • Authors: Brittany A. Dale, William Holmes Finch, Kassie A. R. Shellabarger

    • Year: 2023

  • Title: School psychologists and autism identification: Present challenges and potential solutions

    • Authors: Suzanne G. Margiano, Kari A. Sassu, Brittany A. Dale, Jacqueline M. Caemmerer, Melissa A. Bray, Emily Peters

    • Year: 2023

  • Title: Supporting practitioners in school-based evaluations of autism spectrum disorders

    • Authors: Sarah W. Harry, Kayla E. Bates-Brantley, Breya L. Whitefield, Brittany A. Dale

    • Year: 2023

  • Title: Comparison of Verbal Performance of Children with ASD on the WISC‑V

    • Authors: Brittany A. Dale, W. Holmes Finch, Kassie A. R. Shellabarger, Andrew Davis

    • Year: 2022

  • Title: Bayley‑4 performance of very young children with autism, developmental delay…

    • Authors: Brittany A. Dale, Jacqueline M. Caemmerer, Emily L. Winter, Alan S. Kaufman

    • Year: 2022

  • Title: Collaborative approaches to autism spectrum disorder assessment

    • Authors: Brittany A. Dale, Melissa A. Bray

    • Year: 2022

  • Title: WISC‑V Profiles of Children With ASD Using CART Analysis

    • Authors: Brittany A. Dale, W. Holmes Finch, Kassie A. R. Shellabarger, Andrew Davis

    • Year: 2021

  • Title: Interprofessional Collaboration in School-Based Settings, Part 3

    • Authors: Natalie A. Kruzliakova, Brittany A. Dale, Leslie J. Remache, Constance E. McIntosh, Jayanthi Kandiah

    • Year: 2021

  • Title: Interprofessional Collaboration in School-Based Settings, Part 2

    • Authors: Brittany A. Dale, Natalie A. Kruzliakova, Constance E. McIntosh, Jayanthi Kandiah

    • Year: 2021

  • Title: Profile analysis of the PAI‑A for individuals with ASD

    • Authors: Elizabeth Hooks, Brittany A. Dale, Maria E. Hernandez Finch

    • Year: 2021

  • Title: Assessment needs of families with children who are DHH referred for ASD evaluation

    • Authors: Brittany A. Dale, Raschelle Neild

    • Year: 2020

Sara Isernia | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sara Isernia | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Ph.D. at IRCCS Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS Foundation, italy

Sara Isernia is an accomplished researcher and educator in the fields of psychology and neuroscience, focusing on advanced diagnostics and rehabilitation therapies for neurological conditions. Currently, she holds a permanent position as a Researcher at the Center for Advanced Diagnostics and Rehabilitation Therapy (CADiTeR) at the IRCCS S. Maria Nascente, Don Gnocchi Foundation in Milan, Italy. Her work emphasizes neuroplasticity, social cognition, and the innovative application of digital technologies in rehabilitation.

Profile

Scopus

Education 🎓

Sara earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Genoa, where she explored the burnout syndrome in informal caregivers of dementia patients. She then completed her Master’s degree in Experimental Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of Pavia, where she focused on the role of executive functions and social abilities in the theory of mind among the elderly. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Psychology at the Catholic University of Sacred Heart in Milan, working on a project that investigates the multi-component model of theory of mind in typical and atypical development.

Experience 💼

With a wealth of teaching experience, Sara has conducted university courses at the University of Milan, covering subjects such as Social Psychology, Research Methodology, and Qualitative Research. In addition to her teaching role, she collaborates on research projects that delve into the assessment and rehabilitation of neurodegenerative conditions, making significant contributions to the understanding of neuroplasticity and cognitive reserve.

Research Interest 🔍

Sara’s research interests lie in the intersection of neuroscience and psychology, particularly in understanding social cognition and its implications for rehabilitation therapies. She investigates the role of cognitive reserve in neurodegenerative diseases, employing innovative methodologies like neuroimaging and digital health technologies. Her goal is to develop effective rehabilitation strategies that enhance the quality of life for individuals with neurological conditions.

Awards 🏆

Sara has received multiple accolades for her contributions to the field, including recognition for her innovative research on digital rehabilitation approaches. She has been nominated for various awards acknowledging her impact on the understanding and treatment of cognitive and affective disorders.

Publications 📚

Sara has an extensive list of publications in peer-reviewed journals. Below are some highlighted works with hyperlinks:

  • Exploring cognitive reserve’s influence: unveiling the dynamics of digital telerehabilitation in Parkinson’s Disease Resilience
    Isernia, S., Di Tella, S., Rossetto, F., Silveri, M.C., Baglio, F.
    npj Digital Medicine, 2024, 7(1), 116
    Link to Article
  • Biomarkers of neural integrity and immunoglobulin genes influence neurodegeneration in Alzheimer’s disease
    Pandey, J.P., Baglio, F., Mancuso, R., Clerici, M., Agostini, S.
    Journal of the Neurological Sciences, 2024, 464, 123167
    Link to Article
  • Different Models of Cardiac Telerehabilitation for People with Coronary Artery Disease: Features and Effectiveness: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
    Pagliari, C., Isernia, S., Rapisarda, L., Baglio, F., Brambilla, L.
    Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2024, 13(12), 3396
    Link to Article
  • Cognitive Reserve proxies can modulate motor and non-motor basal ganglia circuits in early Parkinson’s Disease
    Di Tella, S., Isernia, S., Cabinio, M., Silveri, M.C., Baglio, F.
    Brain Imaging and Behavior, 2024, 18(1), pp. 220–230
    Link to Article
  • Human reasoning on social interactions in ecological contexts: insights from the theory of mind brain circuits
    Isernia, S., Pirastru, A., Rossetto, F., MacPherson, S.E., Baglio, F.
    Frontiers in Neuroscience, 2024, 18, 1420122
    Link to Article
  • Reliability and minimal detectable change of the Yoni task for the theory of mind assessment
    Isernia, S., Cacciatore, D.M., Rossetto, F., Ricci, C., Baglio, F.
    Frontiers in Psychology, 2024, 15, 1412560
    Link to Article
  • Surface-based integration approach for fNIRS-fMRI reliability assessment
    Bonilauri, A., Pirastru, A., Sangiuliano Intra, F., Baselli, G., Baglio, F.
    Journal of Neuroscience Methods, 2023, 398, 109952
    Link to Article
  • Beyond the simplicity of theory of mind deficit in multiple sclerosis: from kinetic perception to socio-emotional abstraction and mentalizing
    Isernia, S., Rossetto, F., Castelli, F., Blasi, V., Baglio, F.
    Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders, 2023, 77, 104894
    Link to Article
  • Measuring cognitive and affective Theory of Mind with the Italian Yoni task: normative data and short versions
    Isernia, S., Rossetto, F., Blasi, V., Marchetti, A., Baglio, F.
    Current Psychology, 2023, 42(27), pp. 23519–23530
    Link to Article
  • Differential Roles of Neural Integrity, Physical Activity and Depression in Frailty: Sex-Related Differences
    Isernia, S., Cazzoli, M., Baglio, G., Baglio, F., Blasi, V.
    Brain Sciences, 2023, 13(6), 950
    Link to Article

Her research has been cited extensively, reflecting its impact and relevance in the field of psychology and rehabilitation.

Conclusion 🔚

Dr. Sara Isernia is a remarkable candidate for the Best Researcher Award, demonstrating a strong commitment to advancing knowledge in psychology and neuroscience. Her innovative research, interdisciplinary expertise, and dedication to education set her apart as a leader in her field. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in public engagement and grant writing, her strengths position her to make significant contributions to the understanding and treatment of neurological conditions.

ANDREA CALDERONE | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. ANDREA CALDERONE | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Psicologo/Studente Tirocinante, Università degli studi di Messina, Italy

Andrea Calderone is a dedicated clinical psychologist specializing in health psychology, with extensive experience in neuropsychiatric diagnostics and therapeutic support. Andrea has gained significant expertise through internships at top Italian healthcare institutions, working closely with patients, families, and healthcare teams to enhance diagnostic and clinical procedures. They actively engage in scientific research and have co-authored multiple publications on mental health, neuropsychology, and cognitive rehabilitation. 🌱🧠

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education

Andrea holds a Master’s degree in Clinical and Health Psychology from the University of Messina, where they graduated with distinction (110 e Lode). They have completed two advanced master’s programs in Human Resources Management and Performance Science & Strategic Coaching, as well as a specialization in Health Psychology and Psychotherapy at the University of Messina. 🎓📚

Experience

With a rich background in psychology and human resources, Andrea has completed numerous internships, including roles in pediatric neuropsychiatry, cognitive stimulation training, and patient diagnostics at the Gaetano Martino University Hospital. They have also served in human resources roles, developing training events and supporting recruitment processes. Andrea’s hands-on experience with psychological testing, clinical assessments, and structured therapeutic interventions sets a strong foundation for their clinical work. 🩺📈

Research Focus

Andrea’s research interests include neuropsychology, virtual reality applications in cognitive therapy, and coping mechanisms for brain injury patients. They actively contribute to the field of mental health through scientific research, exploring innovative treatments and rehabilitation strategies, particularly for patients with acquired brain injuries. 🔬💻

Awards and Honors

Andrea has been acknowledged by esteemed institutions for their academic achievements and contributions to clinical psychology, including their exemplary performance in clinical and health psychology programs at the University of Messina. 🏆🎖️

Publication Highlights

Effects of Virtual Rehabilitation Training on Post-Stroke Executive and Praxis Skills and Depression Symptoms: A Quasi-Randomised Clinical Trial

Coping Strategies in Patients with Acquired Brain Injury: A Scoping Review

Is Virtual Reality Orientation Therapy Useful to Optimize Cognitive and Behavioral Functioning Following Severe Acquired Brain Injury? An Exploratory Study