Deborah Van Aken PhD

(she/her/hers)

I am a Pennsylvania licensed psychologist and have maintained a clinical private practice for over 30 years. I provide psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults and very much enjoy working with that array of age groups.  Sessions are scheduled in my private office space for in-person meetings with an option for virtual telehealth if deemed appropriate. 

I graduated magna cum laude from Mount Holyoke College and earned my PhD from Bryn Mawr Graduate School of Arts and Science with a Certification in School Psychology and specialization in Clinical Evaluation and Counseling Psychology.

My special areas of expertise include anxiety and mood disorders, change of life issues, ADHD and school related issues, adolescent and young adult issues, and childhood behavior management.

My Approach to Psychotherapy

The experience of Psychotherapy varies depending on the personalities of the psychologist and patient as well as the particular problems to be addressed.  My approach includes using scientifically-backed methods to help you or your child understand and work to change behavioral or thought patterns that are interfering with positive daily living.  Psychotherapeutic work is a collaboration between psychologist and patient and requires active work both during the session as well as between sessions.  Research has shown that the development of a positive and trusting relationship with the psychologist is essential for a positive outcome.  The individualized goals of treatment and the projected frequency and length of treatment are planned collaboratively during the first few sessions.