I am a Clinical Psychology Ph.D. student in the Department of Psychology at the University of Arizona. Before pursuing my Ph.D., I worked across four labs at the University of Arizona and Yale University where I developed my interests in LGBTQ+ psychology, suicidality, and the unique intersection of these two areas.

Outside of research, I serve as the co-chair of the University of Arizona Psychology Department's Student Wellness Committee and am the graduate advisor for the University of Arizona chapter of the national mental health advocacy organization Active Minds.

Research Interests: 

• Integrating ambulatory assessment methods to investigate how the psychological adjustment of sexual and gender minority populations is impacted by the unique stressors experienced in their everyday lives.
• Using naturalistic observation methodology (namely the Electronically Activated Recorder) to explore the role of the family environment in adolescent suicidality.
• Explore the intersection of these two foci.

Selected Publications: 

• Tidwell, C., Kaplan, D., Nugent, N., Mehl, M. (2021). Everyday LGBTQ+ Family Conversations among LGBTQ+ Youth: A Qualitative Thematic Analysis 
• Shepherd, B., Tidwell, C.A., & Layland, E.K. (in prep). Beyond Not My Type: Heightened Within-Group Discrimination Experience of Gay Men Who Use Dating Apps. Under Review.
• Tidwell, C.A., Kaplan, D., Nugent, N., Mehl, M. (2021). Everyday LGBTQ+ Family Conversations among LGBTQ+ Youth: A Qualitative Thematic Analysis 

• Galione, J., Kaplan, D., Tidwell C., Mehl, M., Nugent, N. (2020). Naturalistically-observed vs. Self-reported Social Predictors of Self-injurious Thoughts and Behaviors Among Sexual and Gender Minority Youth

Updated 02/28/23