Curriculum Vitae
Since 10/2024
Research assistant in the department of social and economic psychology and doctoral student at the DFG Research Training Group 2493 “Consequences of Social Service”
01/2023 – 02/2024
Certified systemic coach, IneKO University of Cologne
01/2022 – 09/2024
Head of human resources, AWO Siegen-Wittgenstein/Olpe
01/2021 – 12/2021
HR officer and deputy head of human resources, AWO Siegen-Wittgenstein/Olpe
2019 – 2020
Specialist human resources development, Loh Services GmbH & Co. KG
2017 – 2018
Trainee human resources, Loh Services GmbH & Co. KG
Academic Background
2014 – 2016
Master’s studies (M.Sc.) in business psychology, University of Bremen
2011 – 2014
Bachelor’s studies (B.Sc.) in business administration, University of Siegen
Qualification Project
Self-help: support systems and their impact on mental health
The increasing mental strain in today’s living and working environments presents growing challenges for both individuals and social support systems. While conventional support systems exhibit barriers, whether through long waiting times, limited access or existing stigmatisation, the need for low-threshold, digital forms of self-help is growing. This is where the doctoral project comes in, by examining to what extent technological innovations such as artificial intelligence, in the sense of a self-help approach, can contribute to improving mental health.
The first sub-study investigates whether, and to what extent, the regular use of an AI-based ‘stress coach’ can help reduce subjective stress levels and support the development of individual stress management strategies. The study is conducted using a mixed-methods design, which includes both quantitative surveys on subjective stress levels and the development of stress management strategies. This is supplemented by qualitative insights into the user experience and the perceived effectiveness among participants.
The study examines both intended outcomes – such as the promotion of self-help skills or the development of coping strategies – and potential unintended consequences, such as the avoidance of human support structures or an excessive reliance on technological aids. Furthermore, the project is to be extended to a corporate context. The doctoral project provides initial empirical insights into the contexts in which AI-based applications can serve as a useful complement to traditional support systems – particularly as a preventive, everyday form of self-help for mental distress. In doing so, it contributes to the interdisciplinary discussion on the potential and challenges of new (self-)help structures.
