Dr. Stephanie Byrd
owner + psychologist
I earned a Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University and I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist in the state of California. I previously earned a Master’s Degree in Family and Child Relations as well as Bachelor’s degrees in both Psychology and Communications from Florida State University. Go Noles!
My clinical experience spans over 25 years and includes working with various populations within diverse clinical settings. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults and elders providing individual, group, family, and couples therapy. My experience also includes training in personality, intelligence, forensic, trauma and disability assessments. I use a dynamic approach with therapy tailored to meet the needs of my clients.
During my own journey of personal growth and discovery I learned that exercise and physical health are crucial for my own psychological well being. I played soccer competitively for over 15 years and played collegiate soccer at Florida State University. My experience as a competitive athlete allowed me the opportunity to understand the power of physical health with respect to mental balance and happiness. I enjoy using my experience as an athlete and as a psychologist to work with collegiate and professional players to enhance their sense of personal wellness and optimize their performance on the field.
Military services
Physical, psychological and emotional stress among active duty service members and Veterans has reached epidemic levels. Severe depression, anxiety, insomnia and escalating suicide rates continue to plague the military community. The fear of stigma or the availability of services often hinders the ability to get help. Despite many new effective treatments being offered you may still be hesitant to seek help from within the system for fear of being deemed "broken” or “unfit for duty.” I understand the barriers in seeking help that you face as a service member and have specialized experience in working with military personnel and their families. I look forward to helping in your journey toward healing and growth!
Competitive Athletes
Over the past several years, I have watched college athletics transform. The pressure on athletes has increased while the global pandemic limited access to support. I understand the demands of being a competitive player at a NCAA Division I program. The stigma around mental health in athletics is changing. Athletic superstars are coming forward to share their journey towards wellness. I would be honored to be a part of your journey towards wellness, towards a better sense of self, towards improved performance on the field and off.
Relationships
As Brene Brown says so perfectly, “We don't have to do all of it alone, we were never meant to.” We are meant to have relationships, connection and to give + receive love, care and support. I truly believe (and know this from my own life!) that meaningful and connected relationships are the hardest and most underrated work we will ever do in our lives. Healthy relationships take work, effort and vulnerability to build a solid foundation anchored by trust, authenticity and commitment. Using principles of Emotionally Focused Therapy I can help you learn to recognize the painful cycles and patterns which have taken over your relationships, often leading to sadness, withdrawal and ultimately loneliness. I will collaborate with you to help reframe these patterns and begin to safely tolerate + express your feelings in your relationships.
trauma
Our pasts are with us, but they don’t have to define us. I work with adults who have experienced various types of trauma, including childhood trauma, relationship trauma, and military + combat trauma. Additionally, I work with individuals who are dealing with loss and grief, whether through death, relationships, or other life situations. Making the connections between your trauma and subsequent patterns of unhealthy behavior, emotional instability and confusing thoughts is part of how I will help you establish a coherent story within which to understand your difficulties. Through this process of healing I will also help you learn to identify, tolerate, safely manage and appropriately express painful emotions. In our work together we will seek to rebuild your capacity for trust, attachment and secure relationships.
How I Help
My passion is helping you achieve a sense of balance and well-being in your life. In our work I will help you to gain insight and greater understanding of yourself and to the obstacles that impede growth, healing and happiness. I provide an authentic and non-judgmental environment where you can safely and comfortably explore and identify the issues that you are facing.
More About Me
I am currently navigating through my own journey as a mom and love just hanging at home with my family and enjoying the downtime that we have together. I enjoy seeing the world through my son’s eyes and I'm always finding ways to make him belly laugh because it's the best sound on earth! I also really believe in the importance and power of self-care which means a good workout to start my day, winding down with a good book or relaxing in the evenings while watching a thought provoking show! You can always find me folding laundry- it’s my secret form of therapy!