Stephanie Van Stralen, PsyD

Dr. Stephanie Van Stralen (PSY28471) graduated with her bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a minor in Counseling and Social Change from San Diego State University. She received her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) from the California School of Professional Psychology, San Diego. She has worked in a variety of mental health settings including hospitals (UCSD Moore’s Cancer Center and SHARP Pain Rehabilitation Program, San Diego) and at several university counseling centers. She completed her APA-accredited internship at California State University, Northridge and her postdoctoral fellowship at Loyola Marymount University. Before beginning at Brain Wellness Institute she spent several years as staff psychologist at University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). In addition to therapy she is passionate about training and has supervised interns and post doctoral fellows. Dr. Van Stralen has extensive training in evidence-based treatments for anxiety and depression. Her therapeutic approach integrates relational and psychodynamic theory with more present-focused cognitive behavioral techniques with the goal of understanding how early experiences may have impacted current concerns. Dr. Van Stralen utilizes a multicultural lens when working with clients, considering diverse beliefs and backgrounds. She believes the relationship between the therapist and client to be the most important tool in therapy. Dr. Van Stralen strives to create a space of safety, empathy, support, and challenge. Therapy with Dr. Van Stralen will focus on decreasing symptoms, increasing coping, learning new ways to care for yourself, and gaining insight into the origin of your concerns. You will be provided with a collaborative relationship with a professional who is there for you and wants you to succeed. Goals for therapy are discussed and agreed upon at the start of therapy to help facilitate an effective experience. Dr. Van Stralen enjoys working with adolescents, adults, and couples. She specializes in the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, and managing stress (work/life balance). She has a particular interest in working with athletes, Veterans and their families, members of the LGBTQ community, and adults on the Autism Spectrum.