PVD Psychological Associates

  When life feels unclear, the mind often tries to “fill in the blanks” and not always in helpful ways. Anxiety can pull you into worry and worst-case thinking. Depression can make everything feel heavy, pointless, or too overwhelming to even start. Both can keep you stuck—but neither defines you. With the right support , you can begin to find clarity, take small steps forward, and feel like yourself again. You don’t have to figure it all out alone 🤍 https://pvdpsych.com/about/ #ProvidenceRI   #MentalHealthMatters   #AnxietySupport   #DepressionSupport   #TherapyWorks   #PVDPsych

  Meghan Haines, LMHC-A, MSEd I am a mental health counselor associate in Rhode Island, where I provide individual and group therapy to adolescents, college students, and adults. My areas of specialty are anxiety, depression, perfectionism, student mental health, impulsivity, relationship difficulties, and issues with self-esteem and identity. I am committed to supporting and empowering my clients to grow and feel inspired to be their best selves. I strongly believe that therapy is a place to explore what in your life needs attention and support, and working together to determine what strategies will best enhance your life. https://pvdpsych.com/meghan-haines/

  “If I’m not the best, I’m failing.” That’s the kind of pressure many teens are carrying quietly. We help them unpack it—using evidence-based approaches like CBT , ACT , DBT , and mindfulness to: • shift all-or-nothing thinking • respond to stress instead of reacting • reconnect with what actually matters to them • create space for rest, not just performance And for parents—we’re here for you too. To strengthen communication, set boundaries, and move away from the “us vs. them” dynamic. https://pvdpsych.com/reduce-the-pressure-on-our-teenagers/ #pvdpsych

  🌿 At PVD Psychological Associates , we’re here for you—every step of the way. We provide compassionate, professional therapy across all stages of life, supporting individuals through a wide range of challenges. 💬 ✨ Our specialized areas include: 🎓 College Mental Health 😟 Anxiety 💙 Depression 🍽️ Eating Disorders 🧠 Trauma 🏳️‍🌈 LGBTQIA+ Support 💞 Relationship Difficulties No matter what you're facing, you don’t have to go through it alone. We’re here to listen, understand, and help you heal. 🤝 https://pvdpsych.com/about/ #MentalHealthMatters #TherapySupport #Wellbeing #HealingJourney #YouAreNotAlone

  Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for  substance use disorders  has demonstrated efficacy as both a monotherapy and as part of combination treatment strategies. This article provides a review of the evidence supporting the use of CBT, clinical elements of its application, novel treatment strategies for improving treatment response, and dissemination efforts. Although CBT for substance abuse is characterized by heterogeneous treatment elements—such as operant learning strategies, cognitive and motivational elements, and skills building interventions—across protocols several core elements emerge that focus on overcoming the powerfully reinforcing effects of psychoactive substances. These elements, and support for their efficacy, are discussed. https://pvdpsych.com/substance-use-problems/

  They’re the ones everyone relies on. The ones who *always* say yes. The ones who get it all done. On the surface, it looks like ambition. Drive. Discipline. But underneath? It can look like answering emails late at night. Taking on more than anyone expects. Never fully unplugging—even on a “day off.” Waking up exhausted becomes normal. Rest starts to feel… uncomfortable. And the mind never quite quiets down. This is the quiet reality for many high-functioning professionals . Not burnout all at once—but a slow, steady overextension. Just because you *can* keep going doesn’t mean you’re meant to—without rest. There’s strength in pausing. There’s clarity in boundaries. And there’s real resilience in learning when to step back. If this feels familiar, it might be time to check in—with yourself. 🔗 Learn more:  https://pvdpsych.com/are-you-worried-youre-in-burnout/ #MentalHealthMatters   #HighFunctioning   #BurnoutAwareness   #WorkLifeBalance   #ProvidenceRI ...

  Dr. Brabeck I am a licensed Counseling Psychologist and a Professor of Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Rhode Island College. I integrate evidence-based interventions within a trauma-informed, social justice framework in my work with adults (ages 18+) and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, complex trauma and attachment issues, relational stress, and personality challenges. I primarily practice Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and have been trained in, and utilize, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I am also recently trained in Emotionally-Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT-C), which integrates humanistic approaches with the science of attachment, and is regarded as the gold standard of evidence-based approaches for couples work. Finally, I am Spanish/English bilingual and have many years of experience working with immigrants from Latin America in English and Spanish. https...

  Treatment can help  reduce the intensity and frequency of your panic attacks and improve your function in daily life. The main treatment options are psychotherapy and medications. One or both types of treatment may be recommended, depending on your preference, your history, the severity of your panic disorder and whether you have access to therapists who have special training in treating panic disorders. https://pvdpsych.com/anxiety-disorders/

  2SLGBTQIA+ Affirming Services PVD Psychological Associates is a recognized BCBSRI LGBTQ Safe Zone. The therapists at PVD Psychological Associates have expertise working with 2SLGBTQIA+ identified individuals and their families. We offer 2SLGBTQIA+ Affirming and Gender Affirming Therapy. We may work with these individuals on issues non-specific to their sexual orientation or gender identity/expression, such as an eating disorder or relationship problems, or therapy might focus on very specific issues such as exploring one’s gender identity or coming out. Whether the topic of therapy is specific to being 2SLGBTQIA+ identified or not, many of our clients have told us they find it to be important and helpful that their therapist is knowledgeable about the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and is affirming in their approach. The same is true that being Affirming and knowledgeable is very important for providing a comfortable and accurate neuropsychological testing experience. Our therapists ...

  Sleep is not downtime. It’s repair mode. When you cut sleep short, your body can’t fully recover—and that stress doesn’t just disappear. It builds. Over time, poor sleep can impact both physical health and mental well-being in ways you may not even realize. Protect your sleep. Protect your mind. https://pvdpsych.com/ #SleepIsHealth   #MentalHealthAwareness   #WellnessStartsWithin   #PVDPsych

  Mindfulness , from a therapeutic, secular perspective is a conscious awareness of our present moment. This includes openness and non-judgment about the experience. It is often coupled with other types of therapy, such as Cognitive-based Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). https://pvdpsych.com/

  Dr. Lucille Waagen I am a licensed psychologist in Rhode Island and offer individual therapy for adolescents over 12 and adults of all ages. My areas of interest include: depression, anxiety, relationships, identity development, vocational stressors and satisfaction, trauma, academic challenges, and adaptation to major life changes. I specialize in trans-affirming care, 2SLGBTQIA+ identity development, and experiences of queer identities. My therapeutic approach is tailored to every client, depending on their unique needs. My approach utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). The common theme across my approaches is a feminist, multicultural lens in which clients and I explore the impact of societal messaging and engage in discussion of cultural values as they relate to a client’s experiences. https://pvdpsych.com/lucille-waagen/

  “Am I going to lose my job?” For many people, job insecurity creates a constant background stress that never fully shuts off. Even when nothing has happened yet, the possibility of losing stability can keep your brain in a state of high alert. That’s why job insecurity can lead to anxiety , trouble sleeping, irritability, and difficulty focusing. If you’ve been feeling this way, you’re not imagining it. Your brain is responding to uncertainty. Understanding why this happens is the first step toward managing the stress. Learn more:  https://pvdpsych.com/why-job-insecurity-causes-stress/ #WorkStress   #JobAnxiety   #MentalHealthAwareness   #WorkplaceStress   #PsychologyInsights   #pvdpsych  

  Exceptional Therapy and Testing in PVD PVD Psychological Associates (PVD Psych) is a private psychology practice with offices in Rhode Island and online services available in Massachusetts, New York, and all PSYPACT states. We specialize in providing evidence based treatment (ie CBT, ACT, DBT) and comprehensive neuropsychological testing for individuals. Particular areas of expertise for us include depression, anxiety, ADHD, neurodiversity individuals, student mental health, trauma, and relationship difficulties. We are a BCBSRI certified LGBTQ Safe Zone practice and offer Inclusive and Affirming Care to individuals who identify as part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. We strongly believe that everyone has the right to safe, respectful, and affirming, high quality care. https://pvdpsych.com/

  Your attention is a skill—and like any skill, it gets stronger with practice. Your phone is constantly pinging. Notifications never stop. In a world full of distractions, focus has become a superpower. Training your attention doesn’t require hours of meditation. Even a few minutes of mindfulness , deep breathing, or quiet reflection each day can help your brain notice distractions without getting pulled away by them. Another simple strategy: Work in focused blocks of time, then take short breaks instead of multitasking. Learn more about sharpening your focus: https://pvdpsych.com/how-to-sharpen-your-mind/ #Mindfulness #Focus #MentalClarity #BrainHealth #AttentionTraining #MentalWellness #pvdpsych

  ⚠️ Parental controls aren’t enough... Many parents believe that turning on parental controls will fully protect their kids while gaming online. While they’re important, **they’re not a complete solution.** Filters can block certain words or restrict some interactions — but they often **can’t detect emotional manipulation, grooming language, or the slow development of inappropriate relationships.** One of the most effective things you can do is surprisingly simple: 👾 **Sit with your child while they play.** Even casually being present changes the dynamic. It reduces secrecy, makes their online world visible, and shows that adults are part of the experience. Predators rely on **privacy and isolation.** When they sense adult awareness, they often back away. Just as importantly, being present sends a powerful message to your child: 💬 *You can talk to me if something feels wrong.* Children who feel their parents are curious — not judgmental — are **far more likely to speak up.** Lea...

  Gregory Katzen, PsyD I am a licensed clinical psychologist based in Rhode Island, offering both in-person and online therapy to adults and couples residing within the state. I specialize in helping individuals navigate issues such as shame, self-criticism, depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, and unhealthy habits. I also work with couples on enhancing communication, improving dynamics, and addressing marital conflict. I have training in evidence-based practices, including Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy (IBCT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT),  and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). My approach centers on creating a space that feels steady, supportive, and grounded—where you can show up just as you are and begin to explore the experiences, thoughts, or emotions that have felt hard to navigate. I offer a compassionate presence so you don’t have to carry it all alone. Together, we’ll build i...

  Everyone will experience the loss of a friend or loved one at some point in his or her life. You will grieve the death of someone you care about, the end of a relationship, a move to a new area, the loss of a pet, or a serious illness. Individual reactions to profound loss differ from person to person. The grieving process often occurs in stages, each of which brings with it different emotions. The stages of grief differ for everyone. Counseling and therapy  use discussion between the client and the  mental health professional  to help the client address emotional, mental, or behavioral issues and solve problems. https://pvdpsych.com/

  When you factor in busy schedules, difficulty finding childcare, and potential transportation challenges, getting to therapy can be difficult, if not impossible. Online therapy  makes therapy portable; this is particularly useful for clients who relocate or who are looking for a specialist and cannot find one in their area. https://pvdpsych.com/online-therapy/

  Stress   is often defined as a bodily response to the demands of life. But there are also emotional and mental aspects of stress.  Mental health professionals  often help people reduce and manage their stress. https://pvdpsych.com/blog/

  Therapy   provides a safe and confidential place for a person to talk to a professional about personal experiences, thoughts, feelings, or problems. People who go to  therapy may have experienced a situation that that disrupts and/or impacts his or her thinking, mood, feelings, or ability to relate to others. A person may also seek out therapy because they want a neutral and safe place to talk about general life experiences. Many people seek out therapy: adults, youth, teens, even therapists themselves. Everyone needs somewhere they feel safe and supported. https://pvdpsych.com/

  When life gets heavy, the little things can make a big difference. From mindful breathing to reconnecting with others — here are 5 small shifts that can ease mental strain and help you feel more grounded. 🧠💙 https://pvdpsych.com/ #pvdpsych   #mentalhealth   #providence   #rhodeisland