Obituary: Dr. Ofer Zur

Dr. Ofer Zur, a 1984 graduate of the Wright Institute's Clinical Psychology Program, passed away after a short illness on February 19th, 2025.

"From 1990 until recently, he worked as a psychotherapist, consultant and educator. From 1995 to 2020, he offered online continuing education courses for psychologists through the Zur Institute, based in Sebastopol," his obituary states. "But mostly, he was an adventurer—both intellectually and in the real physical world."

Read the full obituary here.

Faculty Spotlight: Allyson Troxel-Galang

“When it comes to thinking about the work we do, I think if we're not willing to actually be in the mess with our clients, we're doing them a disservice,” shared Dr. Allyson Troxel-Galang, an adjunct faculty member and 2019 graduate of the Wright Institute’s Clinical Psychology program. “If we come in as complete experts, acting like we know everything, we’re going to miss things.” Dr. Troxel Galang’s passion is working with adults who have suffered from trauma and she recognizes that her clients are the experts in their own experiences.

Obituary: Dr. Barbara Bunn McCullough

Dr. Barbara Bunn McCullough, a graduate of the Wright Institute's Clinical Psychology Program, passed away on March 2nd, 2025.

"Beginning in the late 1970s, with the founding of Karibu House in Sonoma County, now known as Community Support Networks, she devoted her life to caring for disadvantaged and vulnerable communities, with a special focus on children and families," her obituary states. "No matter the responsibility, big or small, Barbara always did her best. And her best was more than good enough for her colleagues, friends, and family."

Read the full obituary here.

Student Spotlight: Chiara Ogan

“When I got my first master’s in library science, I told myself I was done with school. Famous last words because here I am again,” laughed Chiara Ogan, a second year student in the Wright Institute’s Counseling Psychology Program. “I’ve been so excited about my classes and what we’re learning - I haven't felt this invigorated about my work for years.”

Student Spotlight: Rajika Mehra

“I envision a future where our collective efforts foster a more equitable and compassionate society, and I'm committed to being part of that change,” explained Rajika Mehra, a fourth-year student in the Wright Institute’s Clinical Psychology program. “Growing up in India and now training in the U.S., I’ve had the opportunity to work across diverse populations and systems, which has instilled in me a profound sense of cultural humility and a deep commitment to social justice.”

Student Spotlight: A.J. Tyler

“It's the most rewarding thing to help someone achieve what they're capable of achieving,” shared A.J. Tyler, a second-year student in the Wright Institute’s Counseling Psychology Program. “People usually already have the tools that they need and they just need a little reminder.” Throughout A.J.'s life, the common thread has been supporting and mentoring others—whether as a big brother, manager, father, or future therapist.

Staff Spotlight: Stuart Lee

“There are so many obstacles you can put in the way of a change that may be good for you,” explained Stuart Lee, a 2010 graduate of the Wright Institute’s Counseling Psychology Program. “I was coming up with every reason.” After two decades in the field of forensic science, Stuart overcame an array of obstacles and his own self-doubt and pivoted to a new and more fulfilling career in psychology.

Congratulations, Dr. A!

Kulvadee Thongpibul, PsyD, affectionately known as Dr. A, is a 2011 graduate of the Wright Institute. We recently learned that Dr. A has been elected as the President of the Thai Clinical Psychologist Association for the 2025-2026 term. This achievement represents a significant milestone in her professional journey and underscores her dedication to advancing mental health care in Thailand.

Dr. A is committed to fostering collaboration, innovation, and advocacy to enhance the accessibility and quality of psychological services nationwide. Her vision for the association centers on empowering Thai clinical psychologists through robust professional development, advancing impactful research, and increasing public awareness of mental health's vital role in Thai society.

Faculty Spotlight: Larry Miller

“In this profession, we’re forced to be humble,” shared Dr. Larry Miller, a 2001 graduate of the Wright Institute’s Clinical Psychology Program and current Half-Time Institute Faculty member. “We’re also forced to be flexible because we don’t know where the path is going to lead us.” Humility and flexibility are both qualities that Dr. Miller exudes, as a clinician and as a professor.

Dr. Miller was born and raised in Long Island, New York, the youngest child of Orthodox Jewish parents. Although his sister was only four years older, they weren’t close growing up and Dr. Miller often felt like an only child. In their family and religion, there was a huge emphasis placed on helping the less fortunate. “I remember one Rabbi said ‘he who saves one person saves the world’ and I loved that,” he recalled. Dr. Miller carried that message with him from an early age and it has informed his work throughout his career.

Student Spotlight: Vanessa Rafanan

“I'm the kind of person who believes you can have your cake and eat it too!” shared Vanessa Rafanan, a student in the Wright Institute’s Clinical Psychology Program. “I would encourage folks to pursue and explore all of their interests because it's so hard to know early on what’s for you and what's not.” During her time at the Wright Institute, Vanessa has explored a wide variety of interests, both in and out of the classroom, as she prepares for her future.