Medical Health Psychology
Our Specialties
Our work takes place at the intersection of mental and physical health. Those with medical conditions, whether acute or chronic, enter into a layered psychological experience. Shock, grief, fear, shame, and a sense of overwhelm are all common in those facing health challenges, no matter your age. Whether your condition has been lifelong or had a more sudden onset, we are prepared to meet your needs.
Work with Medical Patients
If you live with chronic medical conditions, have weight-related health concerns, or have experienced medical trauma, you have a unique need for mental health support. Our partners understand the inner world of living with medical issues through decades of experience, listening to thousands of patient stories, and personal experiences.
Adults and children as young as 10 years old are welcome to come to our practice for help managing the psychological aspect of chronic health concerns.
Examples of Traumatic Stressors
- Cardiac or Neurological events
- Physical illness or injury
- Serious or terminal diagnoses
- Surgical or Medical trauma
- Cumulative stress, anxiety, or mood concerns from living with weight or other medical conditions
Some of the Chronic Conditions You May Face
- Stress
- Type 1 or 2 Diabetes
- Epilepsy or other neurological disorders
- POTS or Dysautonomia
- Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS)
- Insomnia/Sleep disturbances
- Weight & Obesity
- Eating disorders (e.g., Binge Eating Disorder) & disordered eating
- ADHD/Executive Function/Neurodiversity
for teens and adults - Chronic pain
Examples of Anxiety & Mood Struggles
- OCD and Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors
- Anxiety, Panic, or Excessive Worry
- Body image concerns
- Health-related anxiety
- Identity development concerns
- Relationship struggles and loneliness
Work with Medical Providers & Caregivers
Those who treat and care for patients with medical conditions have their own unique set of circumstances and challenges. We work with you to navigate your own physical and emotional experiences in your role as a caregiver, whether that role was chosen or imposed by life circumstance.
You may be experiencing:
- Cumulative stress
- Burnout
- Vicarious (second-hand) trauma
- Loneliness
- Grief
You may want help with:
- Caregiver burnout
- Destigmatization
- Understanding the role of mental health in healing
- Treating patients with more consideration for their mental health
- Learning to navigate your own, or your care recipient's, anxiety
Weight & Disordered Eating
If you’re struggling with weight or eating concerns, you are in good hands with us. With decades of experience, we specialize in the psychological, behavioral and social issues that are related to weight, eating and body image concerns. Whether you're focused on weight loss or embracing body acceptance (or even finding a way to do both), we can help. You deserve compassionate, professional care to help you navigate these issues with confidence and understanding, free from judgment.
Reducing Stigma
Weight bias, whether from external sources or internalized beliefs, can have a significant negative impact on both physical and mental health. At our practice, we address this issue with a comprehensive approach, working closely with you to identify and challenge weight-related biases that may be affecting your well-being. Additionally, we collaborate with your care providers to promote a more inclusive and supportive approach to health, ensuring that treatment aligns with your individual needs and values. Our goal is to create a space where you feel empowered to move beyond bias and focus on your overall health and quality of life.
Managing Treatment
We specialize in helping you manage the psychological aspects of weight management and/or disordered eating. By reducing self-blame and self-judgment, you can foster a more compassionate relationship with yourself and your body which allows space to address your emotional and behavioral challenges. We also provide expert support for individuals undergoing weight-related medical treatments and interventions. Whether you’re exploring medications like Ozempic, considering bariatric surgery, or navigating other medical options, we work collaboratively with you—and, when appropriate, your healthcare team—to ensure your psychological well-being is prioritized throughout the process.
“I was in a constant state of panic, anxiety and hopelessness about my weight and eating. I didn't even realize how much brain space was occupied by these thoughts. I feel so much calmer about my relationship with food and my body since working with you. And somehow, I am even taking better care of myself than ever before."
Connect With Us
We’re so glad you made it this far, and we can’t wait to create space for you. Please fill out an appointment request online or leave us a voicemail, and we’ll be in touch soon.
