Derek Pehle, PsyD

When we are burdened by negative moods, self rejection and unhelpful thoughts or perspectives, the quality of our lives is diminished. I believe healthy emotional flow is key to embracing life's joys and processing challenges. We are often taught to reject and avoid our feelings which contributes to depression and anxiety. When we learn to accept and allow our feelings in a healthy manner, we are able to process our past and present effectively. This supports good presence in our lives and empowers us to respond versus react. My belief is that self-awareness is an essential element to any healing or change process. In addition, I feel that in order to move forward in life, the past must be dealt with and completed. I have been working in mental health in a wide variety of settings since 1988. Over my career, I have specialized in trauma recovery and the treatment of anxiety and depression. I very much enjoy my work and find this career to be extremely rewarding. I am a seasoned general clinician who strives to meet my clients as human beings first. You feeling safe, not judged, and supported by me is the base on which we can do our work together. My interest is in helping you lead a meaningful and rewarding life. The work we may do together may include addressing old issues-unfinished emotional or traumatic experiences, illuminating and challenging unhelpful beliefs (shoulds), growing and improving your relationship to yourself, developing relationship skills, and sustaining healthy self care. My working style always includes warmth and humor. My clients personally impact me and challenge me to always be growing as a clinician and a person. I have had the pleasure of training and supervising beginning therapists a great deal. I have a strong appreciation for the skills required to be an effective therapist and the gifts which come from being helpful to others. Good therapy involves vulnerability and the willingness to try new things with a therapist who is a good fit for you. Successful therapy requires the therapist to support emotional safety and challenge the client in a growthful manner. I believe bringing my clinical experience and care to my work supports clients “feeling felt” and gaining positive momentum for the change they seek. I very much respect and honor what clients chose to disclose and share with me! Thank you very much for taking the time to read this.