Todd Giardina

As a psychologist I have several goals in therapy. I begin by developing a relationship with my patients, with the understanding that I am an expert in my field, but that the patient is the expert on themselves. I believe in educating my patients and empowering them to take charge of their lives and take responsibility for improving their situation. I teach coping skills, largely using cognitive behavioral techniques and by having patients practice by doing "homework". In addition, I explore a patient's history and past relationships, but only after first managing their distress in the moment. I specialize in treating patients with pain and other medical illnesses, assisting patients in developing coping skills and adjusting to their new circumstances. I also work with patients who have a history of trauma, having worked with combat veterans and sexual assault survivors. I am skilled in couples therapy as well. I work in a large group with several other clinicians. The benefit to patients is that if I am unable to accommodate an appointment time or if a patient has issues that I don't treat, one of my colleagues will likely be able to assist.