Meagan J. Brem, Ph.D.
Lab Director
Dr. Meagan Brem (she/her/hers) is an Assistant Professor in the Clinical Science program within Department of Psychology at Virginia Tech. She completed her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at the University of Tennessee in 2021 after completing an APA-accredited pre-doctoral internship at the Charleston Consortium/Medical University of South Carolina (Substance Abuse Track). Dr. Brem's research investigates the intersection of alcohol use and intimate partner violence (IPV) perpetration. To date, her research has focused on mechanistic testing of distal and proximal moderators of the association between alcohol use and IPV, broadening the definition and reach of alcohol-related IPV theories, testing brief, laboratory-based interventions for aggression, and examining IPV correlates among various populations (e.g., college students, adolescents, adults arrested for domestic violence, adults with substance use disorders, community couples, and individuals who identify as LGBTQ+). Her research has been funded by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA; R21AA030858; F31AA026489) of the National Institutes of Health, and the American Psychological Foundation (2017 Visionary Grant Recipient).
When she is not in the lab, Dr. Brem might be found going for a run, hiking through one of the local trails with her family, or exploring a new restaurant.
Chip & Moxie
Lab Mascots
Chip and Moxie make meaningful contributions to the REACH Lab, particularly by sharing their expertise in effective emotion regulation strategies. Chip encourages birdwatching and a healthy dose of sleeping. Moxie is an energetic pup who encourages (ahem, demands) daily exercise, social outings, and "treating" yourself.
Meet Our Team!
Allison Tobar (she/her), B.S. & B.A.
Graduate Student, Department of Psychology
Allison is a third-year Ph.D. student and received a B.A. in Criminology and Criminal Justice and a B.S. in Psychology at the University of Rhode Island. In undergrad, she was in various research labs exploring substance use, health disparities, and intimate partner violence on a NIDA K23 grant. After undergrad, she spent two years as a research assistant on a PCORI-funded comparative effectiveness study examining different models of care for pregnant women with opioid use disorder. Additionally, she studied how COVID-19 impacted recovery and prenatal care for mothers with substance use disorders. Allison’s research interests include sexual assault and risky behaviors with an emphasis on substance use while using mixed methods and a community-focused approach. She also has a particular interest in underrepresented populations within these topics.
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E-mail: atobar@vt.edu
Emily Sjafii (she/her)
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Project Coordinator
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Emily graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles with a B.A. in psychology. Prior to joining the REACH Lab, she worked as a research assistant and mindfulness coach for a study focusing on mindfulness-based interventions for adolescent mental health. Additionally, she completed an internship at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), where she analyzed the national data on treatment facilities with a tailored domestic violence program. Her primary research interests include understanding barriers and burdens to mental health care, developing and implementing culturally responsive evidence-based programs, and strengthening mental health infrastructure in underserved regions with high mental health needs and limited mental health resources.
Julia Krugh (she/her)
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Research Assistant
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Julia is a sophomore majoring in Psychology and Political Science. Julia is from Pittsburgh, PA. Julia hopes to earn a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology or get a J.D. in Law. She is also considering doing a joint program of getting a J.D. and a Ph.D. Julia is interested in Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) and continues to learn about it through REACH Lab. Besides research, Julia stays active through skiing and ballet.
Ella Reitmeier (she/her)
Research Assistant
Ella is a junior majoring in Psychology and Cognitive-Behavioral Neuroscience with a minor in Peace Studies and Social Justice. After graduation, she hopes to enroll in a PhD program for clinical or counseling psychology. In doing so she hopes to apply what she is learning in the REACH Lab about intimate partner violence and alcohol use to her broader interests in the impact of trauma on individuals and communities and in the development and implementation of violence prevention programs. Outside of academics, Ella is a facilitator for the Connection Project run by Hokie Wellness and can be found spending too much money on coffee and books.
Haley Hunter (she/her)
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Research Assistant
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Haley is a third-year student from Chesterfield, Virginia, majoring in Psychology on a pre-med track. Her goal is to take a gap year or two before continuing to medical school to earn her M.D. and eventually become an OB-GYN. Although Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is not specific to women, Haley is particularly interested in women's issues such as reproductive rights, IPV, and the general inequities women face. In her free time, Haley enjoys reading, going on walks, and spending time with her friends.
Joshua Farnsworth (he/him)
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Research Assistant
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Joshua is a current Psychology major that will graduate in Winter 2024. Following graduation, Joshua is interested in pursuing a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. He plans on continuing research in intimate partner violence, and alcohol and substance use. Outside of the lab, Joshua trains in mixed martial arts, skateboards, and exercise.
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Kaylin Upson (she/her)
Research Assistant
Kaylin is a senior majoring in Psychology with a minor in Adaptive Brain and Behavior (ABB). Kaylin is from Winchester, Virginia! After graduation, she hopes to enroll in a PsyD program In Clinical Psychology. Kaylin is interested in adolescents' mental health and developmental disorders. Aside from research, Kaylin enjoys going to the gym and spending time with friends and pets at home!
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Cassandra Ward (she/her/hers)
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Research Assistant
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Cassandra is a senior majoring in Public Health with a minor in Health Communication and Science, Technology, and Society (STS). Cassandra’s studies at Virginia Tech have focused on health equity, substance use disorder, and health promotion. Postgrad she hopes to continue working in research or further her education in mental health counseling. She hopes to one day open a comprehensive wellness center with treatments such as SUD counseling, family counseling, and outdoor therapies! In her free time, Cassandra works as a Recovery Chair for Students for Sensible Drug Policy VT and loves attending local live music.