HNS is proud to recognize Adriana M. Strutt, Ph.D., ABPP-CN as the June Member of the Month.
Employer: Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. I have a joint appointment in Neurology and Psychiatry with privileges at Ben Taub County Hospital and the Methodist Hospital.
Clinical population you work with: I was trained to work with both pediatric and adult populations. I primarily assess adults, but I still see children and adolescents.
Research interests and/or current research projects: I have conducted clinical research in the areas of ALS, epilepsy, psychogenic seizures and movement disorders and neurodegenerative conditions. I am currently wrapping up a 2-year grant project, which will provide preliminary normative data for a Spanish dementia battery. I am interested in collaborating with others.
How did you get bitten by the Hispanic neuropsychology bug? My first language is Spanish and I greatly enjoy working with Spanish speaking patients. I am bothered by the current health disparity and hope that my professional contribution will make a difference.
Do you have any hidden talents? I currently participate in short-distance duathlons and triathlons. I also do long distance cycling events with my husband.
What profession other than yours would you like to try? This question made me laugh because I always tell my husband, “I should have done that for a living!” I have made this statement in reference to many types of careers including professional race car driver, police officer and veterinarian…it all depends on my mood. I am however extremely happy in my current position and appreciate the clinical and research variety of my day-to-day responsibilities.
What is the closest you’ve come to having your 15 minutes of fame? I love reality television and one of the items on my bucket list is to be on the Amazing Race. My husband and I were chosen to do a local Amazing Race type of event known as the Great Raise Houston. It was a local reality based television show that raised funds for the Houston Food Bank and a local child welfare program. In case you’re wondering…we made it through the whole competition and came in third place.
What is the best advice your parents gave you? “¡No es lo que dices, si no como lo dices!” My mom has always made me very well aware of body language and tone of voice. The manner in which a message is presented makes all the difference in the world. This advice has been of significant benefit to me in all areas of life.
What is the last book you read cover to cover? I know this much is true by Wally Lamb.