Alumni Spotlight: Caroline Brasch Noonan '10
A Conversation with Caroline Brasch Noonan '10
March 24, 2026
In celebration of Women’s History Month, we are proud to feature Dr. Caroline Brasch Noonan ’10. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a thriving independent practice, Caroline has dedicated her career to the profound work of healing, self-discovery, and maternal mental health.
Beyond her clinical work, Caroline continues to "Pass It On" to the next generation of Eagles. She is a dedicated partner in the Eastin Family WORX Internship Program, providing invaluable, hands-on professional experiences for ESD rising seniors interested in the field of psychology.
A Philosophy of Healing and Celebration
For Caroline, the goal of therapy extends far beyond the relief of symptoms. Her practice, Caroline Brasch, PhD, PLLC, is built on the belief that true healing comes from understanding the present-day impact of one’s past.
I work to support my patients in learning to celebrate who they are," Caroline says. "I want them to leave therapy with a stronger sense of self, deeper relationships, and more fulfilling and joyful lives.
While she treats general anxiety and depression, she is particularly passionate about supporting clients through trauma, family relationship concerns, grief, and maternal mental health.
The ESD Foundation: Service and Community
An eight-year student at ESD, Caroline credits the school’s early emphasis on service with helping her discern her life’s calling. She notes that the confidence instilled by her teachers and classmates made her feel that she could tackle any goal if she was willing to work hard and lean on her support systems.
Perhaps the greatest blessing of her ESD experience, however, was the community. Not only did she meet her closest friends on campus, but she also met her husband.
Being able to travel through so many of life’s chapters—high school, college, moving back to Dallas, and now motherhood—with lifelong friends from ESD has been an enormous blessing.
Education and Professional Experience
- Undergraduate: University of Virginia; B.A. in Psychology & Spanish (Phi Beta Kappa, Echols Scholar, High Distinction)
- Graduate: UT Southwestern Medical Center; Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology (Outstanding Intern Award)
- Postdoctoral: Fellow at Baylor University Medical Center (Dept. of Obstetrics & Gynecology)
- Current Role: Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Independent Practice (Caroline Brasch, PhD, PLLC)
- ESD Impact: Eastin Family WORX Internship Program Partner Company; Mentoring the next generation of mental health professionals
Purpose: Hearing as an Act of Love
Caroline’s definition of purpose is rooted in the idea of helping others feel seen and understood. She often revisits a quote by David Augsburger that guided her through graduate school: “Being heard is so close to being loved that, for the average person, they are almost indistinguishable.”
By witnessing the "ripple effect" of individuals improving their self-understanding, Caroline finds deep meaning in seeing her clients inspire those around them to live more authentic lives.
Advice for Aspiring Psychologists
For current students looking to follow a similar path into clinical psychology, Caroline offers this humble and practical advice:
- Seek diverse experiences: Engage with communities and perspectives different from your own.
- Do your own work: "The best training to become an effective therapist is by participating in your own therapy."
- Establish a kind relationship with yourself: Strive for a self-connection that is truthful, kind, and loving.
- Stay curious: Approach the world—and your future patients—with humility and a non-judgmental heart.
Every day, our alumni are fulfilling ESD’s mission by making an incredible impact on the world. From innovative entrepreneurs to community leaders to creative trailblazers, their stories are a testament to the power of our community and the values we share. This series is dedicated to showcasing the diverse paths our alumni have taken and the meaningful work they are doing. We believe their journeys will inspire you and highlight the many ways our alumni are living lives of purpose.
Are you an alum with a story to share? We want to hear from you!
Each month, we feature a new Alumni Spotlight, and we're looking for alumni stories to highlight your success, purpose, and impact. Whether you've launched a new business, led a community initiative, achieved a personal goal, or made a difference in your field, we want to celebrate your accomplishments. Ready to be featured? Submit your updates and achievements through the form below for a chance to be our next alumni spotlight.
