I experienced how our sense of "self" is influenced by the context in which we live while I was growing up in Windsor, Connecticut. There, I straddled two cultures: the multi-generational American community of my public school, and the tight-knit recent-immigrant Ukrainian community of my parents. I learned two languages, two cultures, and studied two different versions of History taught in the Ukrainian and American schools that I attended. But despite these differences, I saw that everyone, regardless of background or context, struggled in their own way. And everyone sought to belong and contribute in some meaningful way.
I pursued the scientific study of this universal human quest for meaning and belonging as I studied Psychology in college, graduate school, and in my various post-doctoral trainings. Along the way, I grappled with ways that I and the people I loved personally struggled with issues of trauma, disability, grief, and identity as I transitioned from my childhood and into my adulthood. Along the way, I experienced first-hand the power of a safe and supportive environment that made this journey easier.
Eventually, I found my way to Montclair, NJ, where I formed my own family, cultivated deep and lasting friendships, and developed my career. I enjoy the vibrant and diverse community of the greater New York City area where I frequent art and music shows and enjoy food from the farthest reaches of the globe! And yes, I still consider myself to be an active member of the Ukrainian community. But now I have a better understanding of how I, and every individual, with our own unique identities and perspectives on the world, stretch the very definition of what our culture represents.
Education
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Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology – Fairleigh Dickinson University
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M.A. in Psychology – Long Island University
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B.A. in Psychology with Honors – University of Rochester
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Post-Graduate Training – Multicultural Family Institute in Highland Park, NJ
I've also taken specialized coursework at the Ackerman Institute for Family and completed extensive continuing education in advanced clinical methods.
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Clinical Training & Specializations
My advanced training spans multiple treatment modalities, ensuring a versatile approach to client care. My certifications and areas of expertise include:
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Couples and Family Therapy
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CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)
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ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention)
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ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)
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EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
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Motivational Interviewing
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Play Therapy
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Skills-Building Treatments
Her clinical experience includes treating conditions such as:
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Couples, Family, Sibling, and other Relationship Difficulties
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Workplace and career issues
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Anxiety, Phobias, and Panic Disorders
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OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) and related disorders
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Stress and Trauma
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Compulsive Disorders and its impact on relationships with others
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ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)
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Autism Spectrum Disorder
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Gender and Sexuality Issues and its impact on family
Additionally, I'm committed to supporting the LGBTQ+ community and individuals navigating immigration and cultural issues, ensuring care is accessible, inclusive, and culturally responsive.
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Professional Roles
I've held prominent roles in clinical, academic, and community-based organizations, including:
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Supervising Psychologist – Fairleigh Dickinson University
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Staff Psychologist – Generations Counseling and Care Management
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Staff Psychologist – Rutgers Medical Center
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Staff Psychologist – The Youth Center of South Orange and Maplewood
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Assistant Professor – Fairleigh Dickinson University and Montclair State University
I'm also a frequent invited speaker at educational and community events, sharing insights on interpersonal relationships, mental health, and conflict resolution.
Contact Me
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