Andrew Scarbrough
My name is Andrew Scarbrough and I have a doctoral degree (PsyD) and am a licensed practicing clinical psychologist. I use a culturally adaptive, evidence-based style that develops based on the strengths of the individual, the context for their struggles and their level of readiness for change. I feel adaptivity is an undervalued skill for therapists, because people are different in so many ways. I am known to be a therapist that helps patients develop tangible goals and build real skills. I believe it is critical for a therapist to help a patient develop techniques that help foster noticeable positive changes in their day to day life.
First session
The first session is mostly about getting to know the individual(s), but it is also important for a person to leave the first session with some specific information about how the goals they have for therapy can be addressed. It's fine if a person comes in and can't articulate their goal very well. I make a point that by the end of the first session, I have worked with the person to develop some clearly defined goals and some specific mention of how they will be addressed with empirically supported interventions.
Strengths
I would say the three biggest compliments I regularly get from patients is that they feel heard and truly understood, that I help them develop specific skills and techniques to address problems (not only listen and reflect) and that I am "real." I think some therapists are much more listeners than problems solvers. Don't get me wrong, good listening skills are critical for therapy, but the most common complaint I get from patients about previous therapists is that they "only" listened and that therapy often felt like simply venting or chit chat. I think you have to include more value than that for people. As far as the being "real" comment I get sometimes, when I hear that explanation from people, they usually say that they feel I'm just more genuine and authentic that others they've worked with. That feedback always makes me smile and I take some pride in that.
Ideal clients
I am a generalist practitioner which means I a great deal of familiarity and experience with a variety of mental health issues. I have particular expertise in working with people with anxiety issues which might include things like Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, phobias, Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I am also highly qualified in working with depression, psychosis (e.g. Schizophrenia), personality disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, autism, impulse control disorders, anger management, interpersonal difficulties and relationship/marital issues.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
This method focus on the interplay between a person's thoughts, behaviors and feelings.
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
This method integrates cultural awareness, sensitivity, and adaptability to provide effective, inclusive care tailored to each client’s unique cultural identity.
Interpersonal
This method explores how your relationships affect your mood and vice versa.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
This response is more about the client leading the process and includes a therapuetic approach that involves empathy, unconditional positive regard and genuineness.
Exposure Response Prevention (ERP)
Exposure therapy is a psychological treatment that helps individuals confront and reduce their fears by safely facing the objects, situations, or activities they avoid.
Location
Virtual sessions