Dr. Alexa Connors, PsyD
License PSY34451
My clinical specialties include:
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Helping young adults become independent
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Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
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Child/adolescent anxiety or depression
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Trauma-focused CBT for kids/teens
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Psychological testing
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Detecting early psychosis
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Stepdown care after IOP or inpatient
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Helping therapists detect and understand psychosis
(Dr. Connors now offers psychosis consultations to mental health professionals!)
Training & Experience
I earned my Doctorate of Clinical Psychology (PsyD) from the University of La Verne in La Verne, CA. I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, extreme mood swings, suicidal thoughts, early psychosis, impulse difficulties, relationship challenges, and difficult family dynamics. I am also passionate about supporting the unique needs of the LGBTQIA community. I completed my clinical training at several hospitals including UCLA and Children's Hospital Orange County (CHOC) in their Intensive Outpatient program, mental health emergency department and mental health inpatient center. I completed an American Psychological Association (APA) accredited internship at UC Davis Medical Center where I achieved certifications in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and psychosis assessment (Structured Interview for Psychosis Symptoms). I have been trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I offer consultation services for outside providers, parents, teachers, etc. who want to learn more about complex mental health issues such as emerging psychosis, mood disorders, suicidality and other high-risk behaviors.
Philosophy & Style
I strive to integrate authenticity, warmth, cultural humility and a strengths-based approach to my clients’ values and individual treatment goals. One of my primary goals in treatment is to create a space where my clients can feel safe to express themselves while also being challenged to grow and learn new skills. My clinical work often involves collaboration with family members, psychiatrists, school psychologists, teachers, social workers, and medical doctors, which allows me to incorporate different perspectives and make holistic recommendations beyond individual therapy.
I collaborate with my clients to incorporate their personal views with my areas of expertise to address their goals. I use humor, music, and other creative methods in treatment. I am passionate about helping adolescents and young adults learn new skills and perspectives to navigate life’s challenges. I believe that no matter the diagnosis or symptoms, all people can create a life worth living and accomplish their goals with adequate support and care!