Jessika Boles, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Practice, Psychology and Human Development
VKC Member
Overview of Interests
With her clinical background as a Certified Child Life Specialist and training in qualitative and mixed-methods research, Dr. Boles' program of inquiry aims to elevate child and family voices in the provision of pediatric medical and psychosocial care. Recognizing the essential expertise that children and families living with developmental, medical, intellectual, and behavioral needs bring to each healthcare encounter, her primary pursuit is to ensure that these perspectives are represented, honored, and prioritized in all aspects of decision making and service delivery.
Dr. Boles is the faculty advisor for the SibShops program at Vanderbilt, which she helped to establish in 2024 with one of her graduate students. SibShops is a play-based information and support program for children ages 7 1o 13 who have a sibling with intellectual/developmental disabilities, emotional/behavioral concerns, or complex medical needs.