It was Dr. Gertrude Y. Kerns’ fascination for the human mind that led her to practice in the field of psychology for an astounding 50 years. During high school, it occurred to her that the next leg of her educational journey would not only allow her to study the mind, but also prepare her for a career dedicated to helping others. As a result, Dr. Kerns embarked on extensive academic training, earning a Bachelor of Arts from Olivet College in 1953 and a Master of Arts from Wayne State University in 1958. Her academia culminated with the receipt of a PhD from the University of Michigan in 1979.
Dr. Kerns has showcased her talents through her private, self-titled business in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, for the last 20 years. For this length of time, patients have sought her expertise in order to address an array of mental health issues and personal matters. She has treated those seeking solace from depression, chronic illness, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, grief and loss. Dr. Kerns has become successful in these endeavors due to both her knowledge of the field and her empathy for her patients. Expressive of the latter quality, she also volunteers her services for pro bono work.
In preparation for her current role, Dr. Kerns served as a school psychologist at Roseville Public Schools from 1958 to 1968 and Grosse Pointe Public Schools from 1968 to 1986. During this time, she also instructed psychology at Macomb Community College from 1959 to 1969.
Today, Dr. Kerns belongs to the Michigan Psychological Association and the American Psychological Association. Additionally, she was the president of the Lakeshore Psychological Association for one term from 1988 to 1989. She has also been honored with induction to Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology. Through such longevity in the field, she has become a capable psychologist with particular skills for adult psychotherapy and hypnotherapy. In the years to come, Dr. Kerns intends to expand upon her already accomplished career in psychology. An Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, she plans to write books in this area and thus, reach a far greater audience. She previously wrote “A Second Heartbeat” in 1979 and has authored numerous magazine articles.