Dr. Rebecca S. Martínez began her tenure as director of the Indiana Resource Center for Autism (IRCA) in the fall of 2023. Her diverse professional background includes roles as a bilingual classroom teacher, school psychologist, school psychology trainer, tenured professor, director of clinical training, and licensed psychologist.
Degrees
Martínez holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Florida, Gainesville, a master’s degree in Program Evaluation, and a Ph.D. in School Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin.
Personal Statement
Martínez's mission as director of the IRCA focuses on fostering a neuroaffirming approach to understanding and supporting neurodivergent individuals. She aims to build strong professional relationships with stakeholders in Indiana and nationwide. The programs she is implementing emphasize community engagement and support for neurodivergent individuals and their families. Martínez works to close the research-to-practice gap by translating findings into practical strategies. She also trains counselors and psychologists to provide compassionate, informed care. Her dedication is to create an inclusive environment where neurodivergent individuals are valued and supported.
Research Interests
- Creating Neuroaffirming Workspaces: Developing environments that celebrate neurodiversity, providing accommodations and support to ensure neurodivergent individuals thrive professionally.
- Evaluating Autistic Adults: Conducting comprehensive evaluations to understand the strengths and needs of autistic adults, ensuring they receive appropriate support and resources.
- Promoting Psychological Wellness: Focusing on the unique needs of autistic women and girls, ensuring they receive tailored support that respects their neurodiversity.
Publications
- Martinez, R. S. (2022). Becoming culturally responsive: Diversity and multicultural issues in school psychology. In K. W. Merrell, R. A. Ervin, G. G. Peacock, & T. L. Renshaw (Eds.). School psychology for the 21st century: Third edition foundations and practices (pp. 68-83). The Guilford Press.
- Ng, J., Martinez, R., & Martinez, S. (2020). Focus on faculty: A missing link in community-university partnerships. Journal of Psychological and Educational Consultation, 31(1), 99-109, DOI: 10.1080/10474412.2020.1726765
- Ng, J., Stull, D. S., & Martínez, R. S. (2019). What if only what can be counted will count? A critical examination of making educational practice “scientific.” Teachers College Record, 121(1), 1-26.
- Martínez, R. S., & Nellis, L. M. (2019). Learning disorders of childhood and adolescence. In J. Maddux & B. Winstead (Eds.), Psychopathology: Foundations for a contemporary understanding (5th ed.). Routledge.
- Albers, C. A., & Martínez, R. S. (2015). Promoting academic success with English language learners: Best practices for RTI. The Guilford Press.
Awards and Honors
- 2022 Coach Excellence Award, National Center for Faculty Development and Diversity