I am a clinical psychologist specializing in treating people (ages 13+) with Eating Disorders and/or body image issues.  My approach incorporates cognitive-behavioral strategies, particularly useful at the beginning of therapy to begin to change the behaviors/symptoms, and psychodynamic strategies.  The psychodynamic strategies are used to help the patient understand why s/he developed these behaviors (e.g., we might look at how significant relationships, past or current life events, etc. contribute to the development of particular ways of thinking or behaving).  This depth of self understanding helps the patient achieve self acceptance and the strength to move through life in a healthier way.
   
In addition to treating eating and body issues, I work with patients who have a wide variety of other concerns, including depression, anxiety, and relationship issues.  My approach focuses on understanding why the patient feels/thinks/behaves the way they do so that s/he is in a better position to change (if change is the goal).  My overall approach is collaborative: the patient is the expert on himself/herself, and I contribute knowledge about the most effective ways to resolve issues and improve self-understanding and self-acceptance.
  
Credentials:  I received my Ph.D. from Temple University and additional intensive training at Harvard University.  In addition to having a private practice, I have worked in a college psychological services center, a hospital-based outpatient clinic, a day program for adolescents and adults, and am adjunct faculty at UCSB's Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology Department.