We are dedicated to promoting mental well-being, supporting emotional growth, and helping people overcome challenges in a safe and nurturing environment.
About Us
The Psychology Training and Evaluation Center (PTEC) began as an idea from our executive director, Dr. Joshua Fulwiler, who saw the overwhelming need for critical behavioral health services. Through his private practice, Dr. Fulwiler quickly developed a waiting list of over a year for diagnostic services; in that role, he has personally served over 2,000 patients and families by providing formal diagnoses for conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, anxiety, and depression. However, the challenges of navigating insurance plans, hiring experienced and credentialed providers, and maintaining a profitable model for these services led him to realize the majority of families experience significant barriers to appropriate care.
As a nonprofit, we are able to overcome some of these barriers. For example, insurance requirements limit the type of testing or diagnoses that can be covered. Additionally, services cannot be billed if provided by non-credentialed providers. That limits the experience opportunities for emerging clinicians, who need hands-on training experiences and qualified supervision in their journey to become the next generation of mental health providers. PTEC was created to solve both of these needs in our community. With the exception of DeSoto County, all areas in North Mississippi have a shortage of qualified health professionals. One of the driving factors is the lack of appropriate resources—there is no shortage of need!
Through individualized care, we strive to empower everyone to reach their full potential, while fostering resilience, confidence, and lasting positive change.
In 2024, PTEC received approval to operate as a non-profit clinic in Mississippi. Our clinic is dedicated to offering accessible services to families in our community while ensuring that behavioral health providers receive the training and experience they need. By combining academic training, clinical supervision, and community-based services, PTEC aims to address the shortage of these resources in North Mississippi. By eliminating financial, administrative, and systemic barriers to care, PTEC ensures that critical testing and assessment services are available to those who need them most. Through our work, we strive to strengthen the future of mental health care services in Mississippi while improving the lives of children and families in our community.