Dr. Lori Dinwiddie
Hi there, I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist, based in Ventura County, California. I earned my B.A. and M.A. in Psychology from Pepperdine University, and my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (with an emphasis in Families and Couples) from the California School of Professional Psychology in Los Angeles.
Having worked within community mental health for over 10 years, I have had the pleasure of bearing witness to individuals changing their lives within intense life-circumstances.
I have worked in various mental health settings over the last 15 years which brings a level of expertise and true understanding of lived experiences. I have specialities in family systems, relational difficulties, perimenopause/menopause as well as depression, anxiety, and trauma.
First session
In our first session together, we'll start with brief introductions, the expectations of therapy will be explored, then we dive into the specific challenges you're currently or have been facing. I offer a space in which we pay close attention to what is happening within and around you, emotionally, physically, relationally and provide a safe space in order to do so. We work together to connect you to the underlying meaning of your pain, bringing not only relief but an increased capacity to tolerate future struggles. Part of our work will involve exploring your life's patterns and expanding the awareness needed to helpfully move them in your desired direction. You will grow non-judgmental curiosity about yourself and others through this process, which will nurture a more authentic engagement in your relationships. The way I work is typically integrative, which means I draw from several theories in order to meet the immediate as well as underlying patterns of behavior that may not be serving you. This will help me develop a tailored plan for us to work through in follow-up sessions.
Strengths
Having worked within various mental health settings for over 15 years, I have had the pleasure of bearing witness to individuals changing their lives within intense life-circumstances. This has facilitated my growth not only as a person but also as a Psychologist in order to sit with my clients in their pain as well as assist them in their process of growth.
Ideal clients
I enjoy working with individuals who are currently going through transitions in their life, may that be becoming a new parent, new job, physical changes due to aging (perimenopause/menopause), and new and/or long standing relationships. My clients are eager to improve, often considered "high achievers" although have yet to realize the tools they have in order to assist them through these life phases. They often feel stuck, overwhelmed and anxious about these transitions.
Treatment methods
Psychodynamic
Over 15 years of experience utilizing this approach in order to address core issues that ultimately manifest in relationships, self constructs, job and physical performance.
Eclectic
In utilizing several modalities such as Psychodynamic, CBT, attachment, relational, somatic, humanistic, person-focused, trauma informed, I am better able to meet the needs presented during the session.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Serves
Licensed in
- CaliforniaLicense 28005