About Me
I am a licensed psychologist with a doctorate in clinical health psychology. As a health psychologist I have a unique understanding of the complexities of medical illness and the interplay between physical health and emotional wellbeing. My experience consists largely of work in medical settings, including cancer centers, rehabilitation medicine units, and primary care clinics.
A focus of my work has been psycho-oncology, which entails the
provision of emotional support to cancer patients and their loved ones across the cancer continuum. During my graduate training, I was involved in research and clinical work at Memorial-Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in the department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and worked with the team developing Meaning-Centered Psychotherapy, an existential therapy based on the work of the psychiatrist Viktor Frankl. I developed a strong interest in the existential concerns that serious illness can bring up, including questions of meaning, purpose, and identity.
As a health psychologist, I work with all those impacted by illness, including patients, family members, caregivers, and high risk groups. I also address general mental health issues including depression and anxiety, and have expertise in parental wellness, work-life balance/career concerns, women's health, and young adulthood.
My theoretical approach is integrative and I pull from a variety of orientations, including cognitive-behavioral, existential, and supportive psychotherapy. I believe the best care is collaborative and patient-centered and can coordinate care with the referring clinician to enhance your overall well-being.
In addition to my private practice work, I have facilitated support groups for those impacted by medical issues including cancer and heart disease. Prior to opening my practice, I worked as a pain psychologist at the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, serving those with spinal cord injury and brain injury.
Education and Training:
Bachelor of Arts in Health and Societies, University of Pennsylvania
Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with a health emphasis, Yeshiva University
PhD in Clinical Psychology with a health emphasis, Yeshiva University
Internship in Clinical Psychology, VA New York Harbor Healthcare System, Manhattan Campus
Post-doctoral Fellowship in Clinical Health Psychology, VA New Jersey Healthcare System