I combine my training in neuropsychology and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help my clients develop awareness, identify barriers, challenge thoughts, experiment with new behaviors, and practice effective ways of reaching goals. I apply my knowledge of brain-behavior relationships to help clients understand their own strengths and weaknesses and maximize their quality of life. By taking an individual’s unique medical, social, and cultural circumstances into account, I can help identify the most important issues and generate a treatment plan in a compassionate, respectful, and supportive environment. For individuals with cognitive challenges, I take the time to adapt sessions to their needs, and may incorporate strategies to improve memory, attention, and organization into treatment.
I tailor a variety of evidence-based practices (cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness) to each client’s unique goals and circumstances. For example, I may help someone struggling with Insomnia and Post-Traumatic Stress disorder prioritize which issue to address first, and offer them the choice of multiple evidence-based treatments (e.g., CBT-I, CPT, PE). In another example, I may help someone struggling after a concussion to better understand their symptoms and effectively manage the recovery process. As a scientist and practitioner, I consult the research to ensure that I am providing you with the best available treatments. However, I also recognize that clients arrive to treatment with their own preferences, and treatment planning is always collaborative. Together, we will monitor your progress towards achievable goals that are in line with your values. For some clients, this is achieved in a few sessions, while other clients may benefit from longer-term psychotherapy.
My practice has been most influenced by my study of the following areas and techniques:
Neuropsychology: Neuropsychology is a specialty within the field of psychology that is dedicated to enhancing the understanding of brain‐behavior relationships and the application of such knowledge to human problems. Clinical neuropsychologists apply specialized knowledge in the assessment, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of individuals with neurological, medical, or neurodevelopmental disorders across the lifespan. For example, neuropsychologists are well suited to adapting treatment to cognitive strengths and weaknesses, helping individuals learn about and accept medical conditions such as dementia or brain injury, and training individuals in effective strategies for improving memory and other thinking skills. https://www.apa.org/ed/graduate/specialize/neuro
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychological treatment that has been demonstrated to be effective for a range of problems including depression and anxiety. CBT places an emphasis on helping individuals learn to be their own therapists by evaluating thinking patterns and changing behaviors. Through exercises in the session as well as “homework” exercises outside of sessions, clients are helped to develop coping skills, whereby they can learn to change their own thinking, problematic emotions and behavior. CBT therapists generally emphasize what is going on in the person’s current life, rather than what has led up to their difficulties. https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/cognitive-behavioral
Motivational interviewing: Motivational interviewing is a counseling method that helps people resolve ambivalent feelings and insecurities to find the internal motivation they need to change their behavior. It is a practical, empathetic, and short-term process that takes into consideration how difficult it is to make life changes. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapy-types/motivational-interviewing