7 Quick Questions: Meet Kim Penberthy

Ever wonder what your doctor or health provider does outside the exam room? Our 7 Quick Questions series gives you a personal glimpse into the people of UVA.

J. Kim Penberthy, PhD, grew up in the beautiful hills of Lewisburg, WV. She joined UVA’s Department of Psychiatry & Neurobehavioral Sciences in 2000.

What did you want to be when you were little?

I wanted to be a ballerina and an astronaut!

What’s your favorite place to travel?

I love to travel to foreign countries where I do not speak the language! I love China and Germany the most.

What’s your favorite thing about Charlottesville?

The people and energy of the college.

What’s the most unhealthy thing you eat?

I love peanut butter filled pretzels!

What’s the most exciting thing/research happening in your field right now?

Promoting light boxes to help treat cancer-related fatigue.

Why did you choose your specialty? 

I love people and love to hear their stories and help them solve their problems.

What’s your favorite thing about working at UVA?

The wonderful people I work with and get to help.

Who’s your inspiration/hero?

My mother, definitely! She was a nurse, a wonderful listener and wise, wise woman. I miss her!