HSA congratulates first Caymanian psychologist
Clinical Psychologist Dr. Antonia Hawkins' office is filled with toys and books for young people.
The Health Services Authority's
Dr. Antonia (Tonita) Hawkins is believed to be the first Caymanian
psychologist licensed by the local Health Practitioners Board,
following the completion of post-doctorate requirements.
As a clinical psychologist with the Health Services Authority
(HSA), Dr. Hawkins focuses on youth and family needs. She offers
therapy and assessment for youth; parent consultations; and psychological
/ educational services to schools and child-care agencies.
Also licensed in the US, Dr. Hawkins outlines why she chose to return to Cayman: "It was always my intention to work here, because I strongly believe in giving back to communities that have helped me," she says. "Also, I love my homeland dearly and appreciate being near my family."
Dr. Antonia notes that she chose to work for the Health Services Authority rather than the private sector, because she thinks a wider range of children and families would be able to access services. Indeed, Dr. Hawkins joins a growing number of Caymanians with Health Services, who have chosen to return home and work in the public sector after achieving academic excellence.
A Triple C School alumna, Dr. Hawkins received a bachelor of science degree from the University of Miami; she followed that accomplishment with master of science and doctor of philosophy degrees from Florida State University. Dr. Clement Von Kirchenheim, the HSA's clinical psychologist who supervised Dr. Hawkins' post-doctoral hours, describes her as "a great asset to the profession."
"She has tremendous
interpersonal skills and is an exceptional diagnostician and clinician,"
he comments. "Furthermore, she is unwaveringly ethical and
maintains nothing but the highest professional standards."
HSA Chief Executive Officer Mervyn Conolly remarks that Dr. Hawkins'
performance during her post-doctoral training demonstrated her
confidence and ability. "She is an excellent role model for
other young Caymanians to follow and the community particularly
youth and families has already benefited from her services,"
he says. "The HSA staff and board welcome her to our team."