Hello! I’m Dr. Dianne Sterling, a clinical psychologist and psychedelic researcher who takes an integrative mindfulness therapeutic approach to help bring about lasting change. My practice of psychotherapy bridges spirit with science: I integrate cutting-edge strategies of Western psychology and neurobiology with timeless contemplative Eastern philosophy and mindfulness, while bringing wisdom, compassion and sensitivity to my work: I have successfully treated hundreds of people over three decades in my private practice and for the last several years in psychedelic treatment and research including ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP) at Kadima Neuropsychiatry Institute and in clinical trials with psilocybin and have extensive training in preparation and integration.
To me, it is important to have an empathic alliance and collaboration with the people I work with in order to proactively move beyond obstacles to achieve inner peace and self understanding. Mindfulness becomes a lifestyle and not just a technique. I provide tailored treatment in a collaborative, flexible and action-oriented way. My overall focus is to strengthen coping resources, while dismantling limiting beliefs and alleviating current symptoms and difficulties. While relief of symptoms is often what brings people to start therapy, ultimately developing a life conducive to growth, creativity, productivity and balance is the “big picture” goal. Each person has a unique background, temperament and situation. I offer compassionate competence to my treatment of each person. If you feel stuck in an ongoing pattern of symptoms or the confines of a limiting self-definition, it may be time to consider results oriented therapy that is particularly tailored for what works best for you as an individual.
Mindfulness Meditation
Please enjoy this 10 minute guided meditation.
My approach
Over my career, I have been adding, blending and refining many treatment modalities to ensure the best fit for each individual. My effective comprehensive approach utilizes the holistic interrelationship between emotions, thoughts, actions and physical wellbeing. Melding the wisdom of Buddhist psychology with psychodynamic theory, I synthesize mindfulness, mindful self-compassion, and mind/body healing to alleviate suffering. I bring expertise from my many years of experience and practice in mindfulness, meditation, psychodynamic psychotherapy, interpersonal neurobiology, mindful self-compassion, yoga, somatic and energy therapies, mindfulness based cognitive therapy (MBCT), and a mind/body approach to trauma treatment.
Therapy involves identifying and unraveling repetitious patterns and “blind spots” in thinking, feeling, and acting that are obstacles to a fully rewarding life. Scientifically grounded mindfulness strategies are then employed to increase awareness, repattern, and then cultivate self-compassion to promote resilience, health and well being. Current research in interpersonal neurobiology demonstrates that this practice literally changes your brain. My range and depth of experience and understanding gives me the wisdom to effectively tackle a variety of issues from anxiety, depression, life transitions and trauma.
Why seek therapy
There are different reasons for seeking therapy. Sometimes people are faced with unexpected challenges and stress, such as life, family or work transitions, loss or illness. Others want to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression or trauma. Sometimes personal growth, increasing self-awareness and finding a new path is sought. Whatever obstacles you are facing, my mindful integrative approach promotes insight and development of improved coping strategies and problem-solving skills. I work with adults and adolescents who are willing to embrace an active process that involves self-examination, change and desire to acquire new tools to achieve optimal wellness and become the best version of yourself. It starts with you!
Attain a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values
Develop skills for improving your relationships
Find resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
Learn new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
Manage anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures
Improve communications and listening skills
Change old behavior patterns and develop new ones
Discover new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage
Improve your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
What therapy involves
Therapy involves identifying and unraveling repetitious patterns of “blind spots” in thinking, feeling and acting that are obstacles to a fully rewarding life. Scientifically grounded mindfulness strategies are then used to increase awareness, then diffuse, repattern, and cultivate self-compassion to promote resilience, health and well-being. Current research in interpersonal neurobiology demonstrates that this practice literally changes your brain. My range and depth of experience and understanding gives me the wisdom to effectively tackle a variety of issues and obstacles.
Services / Areas of Practice
Adult & Adolescent Therapy
Mind/Body Trauma Treatment
Consultation, Coaching, Psychedelic Therapy
