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Kristina Barger
Science Director at Performa Labs
Professional Background
Kristina Barger is an accomplished psychologist and expert in cognitive science and decision-making with a robust career spanning various roles across multiple sectors. Her diverse experience ranges from behavioral science consulting to product leadership and executive coaching, emphasizing her passion for mental health and wellness. As the former Chief Product Officer at Hana, she played a pivotal role in shaping the direction and strategy of the organization, ensuring that products align with the latest scientific research in psychology and cognitive science. Kristina has also served as a Behavioral Science Consultant at TALA and Bloom Coaching & Mentoring, where she applied her expertise to enhance personal and organizational outcomes through behavioral insights.
Education and Achievements
Kristina’s educational background is as impressive as her professional experience. She studied at prestigious institutions, earning a Master’s Degree in Cognitive Science and Decision Making from University College London (UCL), an area that is critical in understanding how to process information and make choices effectively. Additionally, she obtained an MA in Applied Psychology with a focus on Mental Health and Wellness at New York University, which equipped her with an in-depth understanding of psychological principles and therapeutic practices.
Her journey in academia began with an Honors Psychology degree from the University of Haifa, and she capped it off with a BA in Psychology from The University of Queensland. Each of these educational experiences has enriched her knowledge base and offered her unique perspectives that she integrates into her professional life.
Notable Achievements
Kristina has also made significant contributions through various roles, such as her position as a Clinical Psychotherapist at NYPCC-New York Psychotherapy Counseling Center, where she dedicated herself to helping individuals overcome psychological challenges. She has been an executive coach, utilizing her background in cognitive science to unlock client potential and enhance peak performance fundamentally.
Apart from her clinical work, Kristina has embraced research by serving as a Graduate Research Assistant at Tel Aviv University and a Research Assistant at New York University — roles that enabled her to contribute to significant findings in psychological research and its application in real-world scenarios.
Furthermore, Kristina has actively engaged in the startup ecosystem, advising budding companies like PrimeFlow and Kadho Sports, and serving as a Coach at ZINC VC. Her ability to integrate rigorous scientific knowledge with strategic business insights is remarkable, making her a sought-after consultant in digital change management for public sector initiatives, including her work with the NYC Department of Education. Overall, Kristina Barger exemplifies a commitment to personal and organizational growth through her multifaceted roles, and her journey reflects her unwavering dedication to applying psychology for transformative impact.
