Mrs. Joana G. Fernandes | Health Psychology Award | Best Scholar Award
Mrs. Joana G. Fernandes, Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences at University of Porto, Portugal
Joana G. Fernandes is a dedicated Clinical and Health Psychologist, currently pursuing a PhD with an FCT Grant, specializing in Reproductive Health research at the University of Porto. š With a diverse background in clinical practice, research, and teaching, she exemplifies strong organizational skills, critical thinking, and leadership abilities. Fluent in English, Spanish, and French, she possesses a wealth of experience in psychosocial adjustment, particularly in the context of breakups and reproductive challenges. š§ Joana’s contributions extend beyond academia, as seen through her publications, presentations, and mentorship of emerging scholars. She is committed to advancing understanding and support in psychological well-being during critical life transitions. š
Publication Profile:
Education:
Joana G. Fernandes completed her Master’s Degree in Psychology, specializing in Clinical and Health Psychology, at the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto. š Her academic journey also included a Pedagogical Skills Training program at the Alamedas Office, where she excelled with a commendable rating. š Equipped with advanced knowledge and practical training, Joana demonstrates a deep understanding of psychological principles and their applications in clinical settings. Her dedication to honing pedagogical skills underscores her commitment to effective communication and knowledge dissemination, enriching both her academic pursuits and professional endeavors. š§
Experience:
Joana G. Fernandes has enriched her professional journey as an Invited Professor at the School of Health, Polytechnic Institute of Porto (ESS-IPP), where she imparts knowledge on diverse subjects including Introduction to Occupational Science and Psychosociology, catering to Bachelor’s Degree and CTesP students. š Her role extends to providing clinical support as a Clinical Psychologist for Student Support at ESS-IPP. š¼ Simultaneously, she pursues her doctoral studies as a PhD student at the Center for Psychology, University of Porto, while engaging as an Informal Co-supervisor for the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences. š Joana’s concurrent position as an FCT Research Fellow underscores her commitment to academic research and mentorship. š
Research Focus:
Joana G. Fernandes has dedicated her research efforts to exploring various aspects of reproductive and fertility health, particularly focusing on the psychological and psychosocial dimensions. š§ Her research interests span from understanding the impact of depression, anxiety, and stress on sexual functioning in couples trying to conceive to investigating the effectiveness of educational interventions on fertility awareness. š¤° With a multidisciplinary approach, Joana contributes significantly to the field by addressing the nuanced challenges and dynamics surrounding fertility, intimacy, and mental health during significant life transitions such as pregnancy, postpartum, and relationship changes. š±
Publication Top Notes:
Portuguese Adaptation and Validation of the Fisher Divorce Adjustment Scale ā Short Form to Assess Adjustment to Breakup During Emerging Adulthood
Breakup Adjustment: The impact of selfdifferentiation and fear of intimacy.
Effect of depression and anxiety on sexual functioning in couples trying to conceive with and without an infertility diagnosis
Effects of trying to conceive using an every-other-day strategy versus fertile window monitoring on stress: a 12-month randomized controlled trial
Mapping intentions to adopt fertility protective behaviours: the role of couple congruence and the importance of relationship and fertility awareness
Effectiveness of a video-based education on fertility awareness: a randomized controlled trial with partnered women