Weston Allen

Nominee's Key Links: 

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Agency or agencies for which nominator feels nominee is best suited:

  • Department of Health and Human Services
  • White House Office
  • National Science Foundation
  • Office of National Drug Control Policy


    Organization name(s) and position(s) for which nominator feels nominee is best suited:

    Department of behavioral health, Department of disability services, Department of agriculture

     

    Policies which the nominator knows the nominee supports or in which they have expertise:

    My strong interest in advancing health initiatives that focus on revitalizing the well-being of communities nationwide, especially those most impacted by chronic health disparities. As a dedicated disability advocate and Southwest Virginia Representative on Mental Health at the Disability Law Center of Virginia, I have witnessed firsthand the growing health crisis across communities—from Charlottesville to the rural reaches of Wise and Grundy. This experience, paired with my work as a resident psychotherapist, has solidified my commitment to helping address the underlying issues that contribute to the significant health challenges our nation faces.

    Throughout my career, I have been at the forefront of addressing issues that extend beyond individual health, from mental health support and food insecurity to limited access to vital services in rural areas. Through collaborations with organizations like the Health Wagon, I’ve helped bring mental and physical health care directly to the doors of those who would otherwise struggle to access such support. Working closely with these communities has given me a unique perspective on the real-world impacts of barriers to care and the potential solutions that could make a lasting difference.

    With a background shaped by my studies at the University of Virginia and Liberty University, I am well-equipped to contribute to a movement that values preventive, holistic care and targets the root causes of our nation’s health crisis. I believe that by fostering a collaborative approach to health care, as seen in initiatives like Make America Healthy Again, we can make a tangible difference not just within Virginia, but across state lines, positively impacting our nation’s health, longevity, and well-being.

    I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my expertise in mental health, crisis intervention, and community outreach to a mission that seeks to address chronic disease and rebuild the foundation of health in America. Thank you for considering my background and commitment to this cause. I look forward to the possibility of working together to create meaningful change for all communities.

     

    Nominator's thoughts on what would make this nominee a valuable member of a future Trump Unity Government

    1) Is Competent ...With extensive experience as a resident psychotherapist and a board member at the Disability Law Center of Virginia, I possess a strong foundation in mental health advocacy, counseling, and addressing critical health disparities across varied populations.

    2) Is Honest...My dedication to transparency in both individual care and systemic advocacy reflects a commitment to authentic, client-centered support and genuine problem-solving within our communities.

    3) Is Respectful ...I bring an empathetic approach to all interactions, understanding the importance of cultural sensitivity and meeting people where they are to foster trust and meaningful progress.

    4) Has Integrity ...I bring an empathetic approach to all interactions, understanding the importance of cultural sensitivity and meeting people where they are to foster trust and meaningful progress.

    5) Has Courage ...Addressing the often-overlooked needs of remote and underserved communities requires a proactive stance, which I am prepared to take through both direct care and systemic change initiatives.

    6) Has a Proven Record...From my advocacy across Southwest Virginia to my clinical work and board involvement, I have a track record of making tangible impacts on health access, awareness, and policy initiatives for the betterment of our communities.

  • Weston Allen CV

    SUMMARY

    My name is Weston Allen and I’m writing to express my interest in contributing to the impactful work of improving mental and physical health within underserved communities, aligning with the values of the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) initiative. As a Southwest Virginia Representative on Mental Health at the Disability Law Center of Virginia and a dedicated advocate for nearly four years, I have developed a deep commitment to understanding and addressing the challenges affecting Virginians from Charlottesville all the way to the state’s remote corners near Wise and Grundy.

    In my role on the Disability Law Center’s board, I am at the forefront of understanding the barriers individuals face in these areas, including food insecurity, access to mental health care, nutritional disparities, and limited health resources in rural parts of Virginia. Through collaboration with programs such as the Health Wagon, a mobile clinic bringing essential mental and physical health services directly to people’s homes, I have helped ensure that critical resources reach the most vulnerable members of our communities. This role has not only provided me with insights into the unique needs of rural Virginia but also prepared me to take part in solutions that address these health disparities.

    My academic experience at both the University of Virginia and Liberty University has further honed my skills, equipping me with a comprehensive understanding of psychology and counseling in varied environments. These experiences have prepared me to navigate complex challenges in mental health care and contribute to innovative solutions for our communities.

    Given these challenges, I am eager to collaborate with MAHA to bring about real change, engaging with professionals across Virginia and beyond state lines to address the interconnected health disparities our nation faces. With my background in psychology, crisis intervention, and community-based solutions, I am well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to initiatives that improve access to care and support holistic health.

    Thank you for considering my experience and dedication as an asset to your team. I am excited about the potential to work together in strengthening the health and well-being of our country.

    EXPERIENCE

    Mental Health Psychotherapist
    Advanced Psychotherapeutics & Neuroplastic Research PLLC, Lynchburg, VA
    2023 – Present

    • Deliver psychotherapy and psychoeducation to children, families, and individual clients.
    • Conducted assessments, interpreted psychological tests, and assisted with brain mapping for neurofeedback interventions.
    • Utilize neurofeedback to support client’s mental health goals and cognitive improvement.

    Mental Health Psychotherapist
    New River Valley Community Services, Blacksburg, VA
    2023 – Present

    • Provide individual and group counseling for clients with serious mental illness (SMI) and substance use disorders.
    • Conduct court-ordered psychotherapy with SMI clients, including advanced experience with schizophrenia treatment.
    • Collaborate closely with psychiatrists and clinicians on treatment planning, diagnosis, and ongoing client consultations.

    Counseling Student
    Sheila C. Johnson Center for Clinical Services, University of Virginia
    2022 – 2023

    • Developed and practiced counseling techniques with University of Virginia student-athletes, utilizing evidence-based interventions.
    • Observed sessions in counseling observation rooms, enhancing trauma-informed care and crisis intervention skills.
    • Supported clients through trauma-informed techniques tailored to athletes experiencing high-stress situations.

    Council Member, Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illnesses Advisory (PAIMI)
    Southwest Virginia Representative, Disability Law Center of Virginia, Richmond, VA
    2021 – Present

    • Collaborate with council members to improve mental health support and accessibility for Virginians with disabilities.
    • Work with the Health Wagon in Wise, VA, to enhance mental health services for rural communities.
    • Provide recommendations to Virginia’s General Assembly on legislation benefiting individuals with mental health needs.

    University of Virginia Psychology Intern
    Creekside Behavioral Health Hospital, Kingsport, TN
    Spring 2020

    • Observed psychiatric disorders and psychopharmacological treatments within a clinical environment.
    • Practiced case management and assisted with case documentation for psychotherapists and psychiatrists.
    • Gained insights into mental health disparities affecting rural communities in the Tri-Cities area (Bristol, VA; Kingsport, TN; Johnson City, TN).

    FORENSIC TRAINING

    Institute of Law & Psychiatry & Public Policy
    University of Virginia School of Medicine
    Forensic Training: Violence Risk Assessment for Adults
    2024

    • Specialized training in assessing violence risk in adult populations, focusing on forensic mental health evaluation and evidence-based assessment methods.