About Me
Hi there!
I am Dr. Alena Gittens, a licensed clinical psychologist in California. I was
born and raised in the small Caribbean island of Barbados before moving to
Brooklyn, NY with my family. I eventually moved to California for college at
Stanford University where I majored in psychology. I then earned my doctorate
in clinical psychology at Palo Alto University. I have been providing individual
psychotherapy for the past eight years and love what I do.
I chose to become a psychologist after realizing the need for more psychologists
of color who are also gender or sexual minorities. Throughout my training and
clinical experiences, I focused on ways to help those I worked with develop a
deeper sense of self-love, compassion, and awareness, ultimately facilitating a
healing process. I understand that pain and suffering do not exist in a vacuum,
that said while working with me we will focus on all aspects of the self to help
you on your journey.
I have worked with a wide variety of patients specializing in those with more chronic and complex issues. I believe that everyone who feels misunderstood, silenced, erased, or marginalized in our society deserves respect and the resources they need to not just live, but thrive. Regardless of how painful, dark, or hopeless you may feel, there is more for you and it would be an honor to help you discover that.
When you work with me, I take time creating a safe space for you as we get to know each other. As our treatment progresses, I will push you when I believe you are ready for more, you will always be able to tell me when you want us to slow down and I will respect that. I will always make time to close up anything that we open in our sessions. Wherever you are, know that I am here for you. I look forward to our work together.
Warmly,
Dr. G
I utilize a strengths-based integrative treatment approach that is individualized for each person I work with utilizing various evidence-based practices such as:
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Emotion Focused Therapy
Seeking Safety
Gay Affirmative Therapy
Solution-Focused Therapy
Mindfulness-Based Interventions
TRAUMA & ABUSE
DEPRESSION
ANXIETY & STRESS
LGBTQI+
SEXUAL & GENDER MINORITIES
BIPOLAR DISORDER
BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER
VALUES & CAREER EXPLORATION
INDIVIDUAL PSYCHOTHERAPY
CLINICAL CASE CONSULTATION
**All services conducted virtually.**
Due to state licensing laws,
I can only work with individuals in California at this time.
Fees:
$375 - Intake (Initial Session, 75 mins)
$325 - Individual Therapy Session (50 min)
Free Brief Phone Consultation (20 mins)