Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Vincent Miles.
Hi Dr. Vincent, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My story is really a testament to the power of understanding the deep connection between mind and body. It began here in St. Cloud, where I studied both psychology and biology at St. Cloud State University. That dual focus helped me hone a unique lens, allowing me to see people not just through a mental or physical lens, but as whole human beings, and the existing interplay between these two areas. I pursued my doctorate at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology (Chicago, IL), and specialized training at renowned pain clinics in Illinois and the VA hospital in Madison, Wisconsin, which cemented my passion for helping people navigate the complex intersection of chronic illness and mental health.
Returning to Minnesota to work in a pain clinic was fulfilling, but I saw a greater need, and an opportunity to build something that truly reflected my own values and the community I call home. In 2015, I took the leap and founded Miles Psychological Services. It was about creating a space for healing, but also about serving my clients in authentic and innovative ways. Beyond the clinic, my desire to impact our community led me work as an adjunct professor at SCSU and to serve on the board of the Great River Children’s Museum, where I had the incredible joy of chairing the exhibits committee since 2018. The museum opened in June 2025, and seeing over 20,000 visitors explore the museum in its first two months was a powerful reminder of our ability to build a brighter future, together.
This journey, from the clinic to the community, naturally evolved into my latest venture, Human Factor Leadership. It’s all an extension of the same core mission: to understand how people and systems work, and to support meaningful change, whether that’s in an individual’s life or within an entire organization.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The challenges have been both personal and professional. On a systemic level, the stigma around mental health, particularly within cultural communities and among Black men, is a significant barrier. The idea that seeking help is a sign of weakness, rather than profound strength, is a narrative I work every day to change. As one of very few Black psychologists in central Minnesota, I feel a deep responsibility to be a visible advocate and a safe harbor for BIPOC individuals, showing that their mental well-being is a priority.
On the business side, my training was exceptional for clinical work, but it didn’t come with an owner’s manual for running a practice. The transition to entrepreneurship can be daunting and have a steep learning curve. I had to become a student of business itself, educating myself and leaning on the wisdom of other peers and professionals. Navigating that challenge has become a point of pride; it’s now incredibly rewarding to pay it forward and mentor other clinicians as they embark on their own private practice journeys.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
My work exists on two complementary fronts:
At Miles Psychological Services, I provide a sanctuary for healing. I specialize in supporting adults and late adolescents who are grappling with the heavy burden of chronic pain or chronic illness, and the accompanying depression/anxiety that may be impacting their well-being. I also carry a caseload of those with general mental health concerns, ranging from mood disorder or adjustment disorders, to interpersonal conflict or life stressors. My approach is rooted in the understanding that physical and emotional health are inextricably linked. As a CBT-informed therapist, we walk alongside our clients, helping them build resilience and reclaim their quality of life.
With Human Factor Leadership, I take the principles of psychology and human behavior out of the therapy room and into the organizational and leadership space. This consulting firm is dedicated to leadership development and organizational consulting for businesses and non-profits. We focus on the ‘human factor’—the core of what makes organizations thrive: effective communication, cohesive team dynamics, and resilient leadership. I’m a strong advocate for having psychologists embedded in organizations and on boards; our problem-solving skills and deep understanding of human behavior are critical assets for any group navigating complex challenges.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I love most is the constant opportunity to be a student of humanity. I have a front-row seat to the most incredible stories of resilience and transformation, both in my clinical practice and in consulting with organizations. There’s no greater reward than helping a person, or a team, unlock their potential and achieve a desired outcome. I also find immense fulfillment in ensuring that the work I do reflects the beautiful diversity of our community, whether it’s through the inclusive exhibits at the children’s museum or by providing culturally competent healthcare to members of our community.
St. Cloud offers a unique experience for young families. There is much of the community that reflects a large small town, while at the same time offering so many opportunities for professionals and entrepreneurs. It has a very approachable business community, which can allow you to become someone known and established in the community rather quickly. You are able to build strong connections with other caring individuals, and in my opinion, able to leave a lasting mark on the community. It certainly has its quirks and conflicts, but in the full picture these are minimal and there are so many more positive opportunities you can tap into that aren’t as accessible in larger cities. I fully appreciate the sense that I am making an impact here and fostering something meaningful.
When I’m away from my professional responsibilities, I love playing and having fun with my family. Whether its entering the imaginative world of my 6 year old, going on adventures with my wife, building Lego, or learning new skills or information on YouTube, you will generally find me joyfully engaging with those I care deeply about.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.milespsychology.com
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-miles/
- Other: https://www.factorleadership.com
