“I am a first-generation, low-income student from North Philadelphia, and I am proud to be the first doctor in my family. My journey has been filled with significant challenges, but I have persevered to reach this important milestone. I hope to inspire others in my community by showing that, no matter where you come from, it is possible to achieve what may seem impossible.”
Meet Dr. Janeyshka Ortiz-Flores, Psy.D., MFT, an EACS alumna from the Class of 2014. After graduating from EACS, Janeyshka earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at La Salle University, a Master’s degree in Couple and Family Therapy at Jefferson University, and recently earned her Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology at Chestnut Hill College.
During her undergraduate years, Janeyshka pursued several internships and volunteer programs that positively impacted her academic and personal growth. Janeyshka’s early work included mentoring elementary school students, serving as a court advocate for families affected by homicide, and becoming a certified sexual assault counselor through WOAR Philadelphia Center Against Sexual Violence.
She also stepped into leadership roles, serving as president of Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology, and was honored as the Outstanding Graduate of the Psychology Program for the class of 2018. Janeyshka has always stayed connected to serving her community, working part-time as an after-school choir teacher and substitute teacher at Esperanza Middle School.
She recently earned her Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Chestnut Hill College, where she successfully defended her dissertation titled “Exposure to Race-Related Traumatic Events in the Media and Its Impact on African Americans.” During her time there, she joined the Pennsylvania Psychological Association for Graduate Students (PPAGS), advocating for graduate students of color. She was also recognized with the Rex Wellness Award and the PPA Membership Education Award in 2023 and 2024 for her contributions to psychology and public service.
Reflecting on how her time at EACS impacted her educational journey, Janeyshka shared: “I found that the academic challenges and guidance I received in my AP courses were invaluable. In addition, the support from advisors during the college search process was instrumental in helping me secure a scholarship to La Salle University, which marked the beginning of my academic path toward a doctorate in clinical psychology.”
She also reflected on the guidance she hopes to pass on to the next generation of students: “Cultivate relationships with teachers and mentors, and think about the future with intention. It is important to ask questions regarding higher education and scholarships, as these resources can support your goals. Furthermore, I want to emphasize that success is not always a linear path; challenges may arise, but it is crucial not to face them in isolation. I encourage students to reach out to peers, teachers, advisors, and counselors to help them achieve their aspirations, whatever they may be. Lastly, if you are considering pursuing a doctoral degree, I strongly advocate for it; the passage of time will occur regardless, and there is value in striving for that accomplishment.”
Janeyshka reminds us all that no matter your background, you can chase and achieve your dreams. We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments and can’t wait to see the positive impact she will continue to make in the world!