As part of our monthly series, we’ll introduce team members from the Texas Institute for Excellence in Mental Health (TIEMH). You’ll learn more about their interests, the projects they work on at TIEMH, and more.
This month, the spotlight is on Abby Mayhue. Abby Mayhue, M.Ed. (she/they), is a member of the Chicago Hub Team at TIEMH, where she has made incredible contributions to supporting real-world research and quality improvement in youth and young adult community mental health and social services across Texas, Illinois, Michigan, and beyond. She is also a co-author on a recent study published last week: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41182726/.
Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Abby received her Bachelor’s degree in Musical Theatre from Columbia College Chicago and now lives in Chicago, IL. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at DePaul University. Her work centers youth and young adult experience and wellness, with research interests that include women’s issues, community support, mental health accessibility, and LGBTQ+ education and advocacy.
Outside of work, Abby enjoys traveling, catching live music events, and a good documentary.
Let’s dive into Abby’s interview:
What do you enjoy about working at TIEMH?
I enjoy thinking critically about mental health care services and finding innovative ways to make them better. I really appreciate my team for being excellent thought partners and encouraging diverse ways to engage with the work that are meaningful to me. I’ve experienced a lot of personal and professional growth in this role that I’m very grateful for.
What is your official job title?
My job title is Social Sciences/Humanities Research Associate. I have diverse responsibilities from managing data and data collection to leading trainings for clinical staff and coordinating with community partners.
What projects are you working on?
I work on projects within the Transition Age Youth focus of TIEMH, including a NIDILRR-funded project examining a multidisciplinary team-based model called Emerge and a TTI-funded Youth Voices project focused on suicide prevention care practices for young people. I’m also a member of the Chicago Youth Innovation Hub, providing in-person and virtual trainings for agency staff in partnership with the Chicago Department of Family & Support Services (DFSS).
What are you currently reading, watching or listening to?
I’m currently reading “Olga Dies Dreaming” by Xochitl Gonzalez as a part of the Chicago Public Library’s One Book, One Chicago programming, connecting the city through reading and engaging in a common theme. I’m also a sucker for the holiday season so I will admit to already listening to Christmas music!
What’s your favorite Thanksgiving dish?
Garlic mashed potatoes! The more garlic, the better!
Thanks for sharing, Abby!
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