Dr. Sandra Schein, Ph.D

About

I have been working as a licensed psychologist for more than 30 years. Having worked primarily within higher education, I have passion and expertise for working with college-age adults--helping them navigate overwhelming life-stage challenges, while at the same time, encouraging them to honor and embrace their unique physical and mental health needs.

My therapeutic approach is grounded in the belief that the behaviors and thought patterns (such us “I need to be perfect” or “People can’t be trusted”) that contribute to clients’ pain or distress were, at one time, adaptive and necessary. I help clients identify these patterns, understand how they developed, and gain clarity on the vital purposes they once served. Along this journey of reflection, clients are introduced to new perspectives- ones that fuel self-compassion and help cultivate a positive, affirming self-concept. From a place of self-acceptance and positivity, and within the context of a safe therapeutic alliance, clients are in a better place to realistically evaluate, revise, and replace the thought patterns and behaviors that keep them from being their best selves and living their best lives.

My work is informed by psychodynamic theories. The therapeutic techniques I employ integrate evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Positive Psychology treatment modalities. In collaboration with my clients, I ensure that the treatment goals and the therapeutic strategies I introduce align with each client’s unique values and needs. In general terms, I strive to help clients gain self- awareness, cultivate self-compassion, build resilience, and learn and practice the life skills needed to thrive, both personally and professionally.

My clinical work has helped individuals heal or effectively manage their depression, anxiety, eating disorder, substance use disorder, and chronic health conditions.

My educational background includes a PhD in Counseling Psychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara, followed by a two-year postdoctoral fellowship in the Research and Treatment of Eating Disorders at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry.