About Me
Hi, I'm Dhea Katkuri, a high school student with a passion for improving pediatric mental health through neuroscience research, community outreach, and health education.
My interests center around pediatric psychology, mental well-being, and how the brain, body, and life experiences shape mental health. Through research, service, and community engagement, I strive to make conversations about mental health more approachable, compassionate, and meaningful. My initiative, Mind Over Matter, reflects my commitment to reducing stigma, promoting awareness, and reminding others that mental health deserves the same care and attention as physical health. Whether I'm exploring neuroscience research, leading educational workshops, or serving my community, I'm driven by the belief that compassion and education can create lasting change. As I continue to grow as a student, researcher, and advocate, I hope to pursue a career in healthcare where science and empathy work together to help every person feel seen, supported, and understood.
Dhea Katkuri
My Mission
I believe mental health care shouldn't feel clinical or intimidating. By combining advocacy and science, I aim to make healing more human and approachable for children and teens.
My Research
"How Neurotransmitters Shape Depression"
Driven by my interest in neuroscience and mental health, I authored a 5,000-word review paper titled How Neurotransmitters Shape Depression under the mentorship of Professor Jobin Varkey at the USC Department of Physiology and Neuroscience.
My research examines proteomic biomarkers and protein-protein interaction networks to better understand how neurotransmitter dysregulation contributes to depression and how these discoveries may support future diagnosis and treatment.
Publication Status
Accepted for Publication
International Journal of High School Research
Expected Publication: December 2026
Honors and Awards
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3rd HOSA International Leadership Conference Mental Health Promotion 2025
7th HOSA International Leadership Conference
Mental Health Promotion 2026
3rd HOSA Georgia State Leadership Conference
Mental Health Promotion
2025
5th HOSA Georgia State Leadership Conference
Mental Health Promotion 2026
Gold Barbara James Service Award 2026
Silver President's Volunteer Service Award 2025
AP Scholar Award 2025, 2026
College Board National Recognition Program - School Recognition Award for Outstanding Achievement 2026
Certifications
My Leadership Activities
Leading the Change in Healthcare
Founder
Mind Over Matter
Co-Founder Revive the Mind
Main Officer
Alliance Academy HOSA
National Editorial Team
Developed a wellness initiative focused on sustainable stress management and evidence-based guidance.
Led a student campaign to reduce stigma and provide research-informed mental health content.
Directed chapter meetings and fundraisers while guiding members in competitive event preparation.
Promoted eco-friendly small businesses through research-driven digital media campaigns
Medical & Community Service
1. Work Based Learning Internship - Northside Hospital Forsyth
Analyzed hospital operations, multidisciplinary workflows, and inpatient care across diverse departments.
2. CIU Nursing Unit Volunteer, Emory University Hospital
Assisted nurses in CIU unit, supported patients while helping improve hospital operations, and helped w/ front desk management.
3. Med Tele3 East Volunteer, Wellstar Fulton Medical Center
Assisted patients and nursing staff in an acute-care hospital setting, supporting 20+ patients daily.
4. Memory Care , Oaks Senior Living
Assisted 75+ elderly residents by leading morning exercise sessions, organizing daily activities, and providing compassionate emotional support and companionship.
5. Leadership Initiatives / Marketing Intern
Public Health Intern for Leadership Initiative, supporting sanitation in Africa and Digital Marketing Intern for Therapeutic Impressions.
6. Medical Shadowing
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Dr. Shamir Bhikha, Podiatry, Ankles & Foot Center of America - Observed clinical diagnosis, treatment, and surgical management of podiatric conditions
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Dr. Aman Kakkar, Cardiology, Heart & Vascular Care - Gained understanding of cardiology procedures including EKG interpretation, cardiac stress testing, echocardiography, and other non-invasive cardiac diagnostics
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Dr. Vivek Brahmbatt, Dentistry, Cumming Dental Smiles - Managed clinical room setup, sterilization protocols, and patient workflows while assisting during dental procedures
7. CTAE Health Educator
Taught EMT & Clinical lab concepts to elementary students across 4 schools.
8. Community Support, Meals by Grace
Prepared, packaged, and distributed meals for 20+ families experiencing food insecurity, supporting local hunger relief efforts.
9. G100 Youth Patient Advocacy
Championed mental health advocacy, neuroscience research awareness, and community outreach initiatives.
10. Religious Activities - Gopakuteer
Volunteered & mentored children under age 10 during cultural group
gatherings.
Past and Upcoming Events
BOO-st of PositivityPast event held on December 4, 2024Alliance Academy for Innovation, 1100 Lanier 400 Parkway, Cumming, GA 30040, USA
The Self-Love WorkshopPast Event conducted on Feb 22, 2025Forsyth County Library - Post Road, 5010 Post Rd, Cumming, GA 30040, USA
Thanksgiving Firefighter TreatsPast event conducted Thanksgiving 2025Forsyth County Fire Station 14, 800 McFarland Pkwy, Alpharetta, GA 30004, USA
The HERoes EventMar 11, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDTForsyth County Arts and Learning Center, 1150 Dahlonega Hwy, Cumming, GA 30040, USA
Brain Awareness Week: The Science of MoodMar 06, 2026, 7:34 PM EST – Mar 22, 2026, 9:34 PM EDTForsyth County Library - Post Road, 5010 Post Rd, Cumming, GA 30040, USA
Neuro-Joy Launch: Children’s Mental Health Awareness WeekAug 11, 2025, 7:00 PM – 11:00 PMWellstar North Fulton Medical Center, 3000 Hospital Blvd, Roswell, GA 30076, USA
Color Your Canvas: Art & Emotional WellnessAug 11, 2025, 7:00 PM – 11:00 PMForsyth County Library - Post Road, 5010 Post Rd, Cumming, GA 30040, USA
Bake for Brain Health: NAMI Georgia Fundraiser (1)Aug 11, 2025, 7:00 PM – 11:00 PMFowler Park Recreation Center, 4110 Carolene Way, Cumming, GA 30040, USA
Gifts for Goodies: Honoring Our Healthcare Heroes (1)Aug 11, 2025, 7:00 PM – 11:00 PMWellstar North Fulton Medical Center, 3000 Hospital Blvd, Roswell, GA 30076, USA
Creative ConnectionsAug 11, 2025, 7:00 PM – 11:00 PMAlliance Academy for Innovation, 1100 Lanier 400 Parkway, Cumming, GA 30040, USA
Blogs
Gallery
Contact
CPR and First Aid Certification 2026
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FEMA 700 Certification
HIPAA Certificate 2025
National TIMS Training Certififcation
Hometown Health - Infection Control Certificate
Be There Certificate 2025
FEMA 100 Certification