Dr. Valerie Ahl

I originally trained in Developmental Psychology, and I use a lifespan perspective to understand how prior learning influenced a person to become "stuck" or thwarted in their growth and development. For me, labels mean less than the lived experience of the individual. I use humor to keep meetings joyful, and make sure sessions end on a positive note. If therapy is all pain, who would want to go back for more? I believe that everything makes sense, and we can build an understanding together. Then we can focus on how to use existing strengths and new learning to promote a life of thriving and continued growing.

I use a combination of interpersonal, attachment-based thinking and a skills-oriented approach. Once we understand what led to the present situation, I use techniques from CBT, DBT, CPT, etc., to best meet the needs of my clients.

Clients can expect to take away hope and happiness. Even in the face of suffering. I worked at our State Psychiatric Institute for 10 years, and with Veterans for 15 years. I am trained in multiple evidence-based therapies, and have worked with a wide range of individuals, ages and diagnoses. I bring this repertoire to sessions to ensure that we use our time wisely, and that clients get as much as possible out of every therapy session.