My teaching philosophy is grounded in adult learning theory, with a focus on creating inclusive, respectful, and engaging environments that support the diverse needs of learners. I aim to foster curiosity, critical thinking, and collaborative learning among students and trainees.
I have taught in a variety of university and college settings and have held several academic appointments such as:
Adjunct Professor, Counselling Psychology Program, University of British Columbia (UBC)
Instructor, Department of Psychology, UBC
Clinical Associate, Clinical Psychology Centre, Simon Fraser University
I enjoy teaching clinical practice courses and providing both individual and group-based clinical supervision for Master’s and doctoral psychology students. In my role at Vancouver Psychology Centre, I also provide clinical supervision to doctoral interns, post-doctoral residents, and early-career psychologists, with a particular focus on psychoeducational and diagnostic assessment.
Research
I view psychological science as a powerful tool to serve society, and the central theme of my research is identity development and transformation across various life contexts.
One stream of my work explores how athletes adapt to sport retirement, particularly the psychological impacts of identity loss and transition. My award-winning research in this area led to recognition as a UBC Public Scholar, where I investigated how identity-based supports can promote healthier post-sport adjustment. Learn more about my public scholarship here.
A second stream focuses on identity development during emerging adulthood in the general population. My doctoral research demonstrated the positive impact of group-based interventions designed to help young adults explore and define their identities, leading to increased clarity about their values, goals, and sense of self.
Supported by funding from national research organizations, my research program addresses real-world challenges and aims to improve psychological interventions that promote well-being in young adults and athletes. I have authored over 15 peer-reviewed journal articles and regularly present my work at national and international conferences.
If you are interested in learning more, both my Doctoral Dissertation and Master’s Thesis are available for your reading pleasure. Please contact me for information about my published articles. You may also watch this video for a brief synopsis of my work:
Zarina A. Giannone, Ph.D., R.Psych., CMPC 