Dr. Amanda Parker, PsyD
Specialties: ages 18+, eating disorders, body image, trauma, relationships, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, substance use, ADHD, and OCD
I am glad you are here looking for support. I provide personalized care to address my clients unique needs. I strive to be a compassionate and skilled therapist who brings experience and expertise to my work. I am dedicated to improving the lives of those impacted by a wide variety of mental health struggles.
I take a holistic approach to mental health care, listen without judgment, and will work with you to get the most out of life, no matter your circumstances. My approach to therapy uses an integrated theoretical orientation incorporating various research supported therapies as I strive to help my clients integrate all aspects of well-being within themselves.
I have extensive experience working with individuals who have experienced acute, chronic, and complex trauma. I work with individuals who have experienced intimate partner violence, childhood trauma, combat trauma, sexual trauma, and post traumatic stress disorder. I also have experience and am passionate about working with individuals with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, OCD, substance use disorders, religious/spirituality concerns, relationship challenges, and health issues. I have experience providing therapy at the Veteran Affairs Administration, the Nia Project, and Walden Behavioral Healthcare (Dunwoody Center for Eating Disorders), and at Kennesaw State University.
In addition to my clinical work, I am committed to advancing the field of psychology through research. My research interests include inter-generational trauma, exploring the intersection of trauma and physical health, and assessing the barriers to addressing adverse childhood events.
I am here to answer any questions or concerns you have. I know you might be feeling stuck or unsure at this moment. Hope is being able to see the light when you feel like you are surrounded by darkness. Know that we will work together to help you feel better and live your best life. I look forward to the opportunity to meet you.
Therapy Approach
I draw from different therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), attachment-based therapy, narrative therapy, art therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. This allows me to provide personalized care that addresses each person’s unique needs. My experience and training in different approaches allows me to use tools that specially help each person I work with to process and express their emotions safely and develop specific tools to help them overcome the challenges they are facing.
What would you say to someone who is considering therapy?
Going to therapy means that you are taking a proactive step to improve your mental health and well-being. Many people find that therapy is a positive and transformative experience that helps them to lead more fulfilling and satisfying lives. I encourage anyone who is considering therapy to take the step and explore it further. Therapy can be a valuable and transformative experience that can help you to better understand yourself, navigate challenges, and improve your overall well-being.
Education
- –> Best Within You Therapy and Wellness, Postdoctoral Psychology Fellowship
- ->Kennesaw State University, Doctoral Internship
- -> Mercer University, Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) & Masters of Science (MS)
- -> Georgia Gwinnett College, Bachelor of Science (Major in Psychology and Minor in Developmental Psychology) Magna Cum Laude
Experience
- -> Two time President’s Award recipient-Georgia Gwinnett College
- -> Presentation and guest speaker on mental health related exercise and Alzheimer’s Disease, the importance of increasing communication, reducing stigmas regarding trauma and mental illness, and overcoming grief, anxiety and depression
- -> Behavioral Science Student of the Year Award recipient
- -> Healing Through Art Therapy, Creator and Facilitator -Fort McPherson, Georgia Department of Veterans Service
- -> Psychology Club, President for University
- ->Foster Care Support Foundation, Volunteer