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Sydney for web 2I am a licensed psychologist in Austin, Texas, providing psychotherapy for individuals and couples who present with a broad range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, chronic illness, and grief.

Most people seek psychotherapy when they are in emotional distress. Therapy is a helpful and supportive path to self-understanding and self-acceptance. Through the therapeutic process, hurtful and confusing feelings are identified and resolved through safe, guided discussions. Similarly, harmful beliefs and attitudes are explored and rendered less powerful resulting in reduced anger, anxiety, despair and depression. As a result of therapy, people often feel more authentic in their relationships.

My personal style is warm and empathic but also direct. My therapeutic foundation is psychodynamic. However, I have experience and training in other therapeutic orientations and plan treatment according to each person’s needs.

Areas of Interest

  • marital and premarital counseling
  • parenting, including becoming a parent for the first time
  • coping with chronic/catastrophic illness
  • grief and loss recovery
  • midlife transition issues for men and women
  • phase of life issues including empty nest and retirement
  • adult attention deficit disorder (ADD)
  • coping with learning disabilities
  • functioning with neuropsychological impairment
  • family of origin issues in addiction recovery
  • exploration of spiritual issues

Education

Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin

Post-doctoral training
Multi-year study and supervision groups with the following areas of focus: family and couples systems, emotion focused therapy, System-oriented therapy, and psychoanalytic theory. In 2011, I completed the core training program in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP).

Work Experience

After receiving my Ph.D., I worked for 8 years at Austin Regional Clinic (a multi-specialty medical group) as a therapist for children, couples, and individuals. I have maintained a private practice since leaving ARC.