Alexandra (Ali) Poling, LCSW

Perhaps you are dealing with painful events outside of your control, your emotions are becoming unmanageable, or you are experiencing a new symptom that is sudden and overwhelming. It is very human to want to \"feel normal\" when dealing with these, but sometimes how we attempt to do this hurts us more. This could include the different ways we avoid our emotions, attempt to “be perfect\" or negatively judge ourselves. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and techniques from Mindfulness and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT,) I will help you identify and change (as needed) ways of thinking and behaving that are impacting your mental health. My approach includes teaching coping skills that will target symptoms and addressing the triggers and any unresolved or painful emotions that may be impacting you. My style is warm and empathic, yet direct and to the point. My goal is to give you symptom relief with use of coping skills and to help you to understand your triggers and warning signs so that you feel empowered to take on future challenges as they come. I have 10+ years of experience and training using this approach to treat anxiety, panic, grief, PTSD and depression and the underlying issues that contribute to these such as trauma, loss, anger or unresolved relationship conflict.

In person sessions available in my Carlsbad, Ca office. Telehealth sessions available throughout California. I offer \"floating\" weekly sessions for those who need flexible scheduling. Please contact me for current openings or to schedule a free phone consultation!