Hi, my name is Dr. Bertrina Olivia West Al-Mahdi. But most people call me Dr. O. I am a U. S. Navy veteran, Licensed Professional Counselor, Coach, Trauma, Diversity & Inclusion consultant, a Human, Social, and Civil Rights Advocate and Activist, with a Doctoral Degree in International Psychology. I am the Clinical Director at Out of the Box, Counseling, Coaching, and Consulting and I specialize in the area of trauma recovery and I have dedicated my life and career to helping individuals, families, couples, adolescents, and children overcome emotional, cognitive, social, and behavioral challenges. Some of these challenges may include family or individual crisis, trauma, death, loss, or divorce, depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral issues, addiction, eating and body image disorders, personality disorders, sexual dysfunction, self-harm, and suicide, or complex mental health disorders. I received my Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University in Phoenix, Arizona. I graduated with honors and specialized training in cognitive therapy and trauma-focused therapy. After completing my Master’s degree, I completed a doctorate degree in International Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, with a concentration in Trauma.
It is believed that over 70% of the US population have or will experience a traumatic event in their lifetime. This may be alarming to some because when most people think of trauma, they think about complex trauma (war, famine, abuse, death, violence, etc). However, what most aren’t considering is that trauma is simply STRESS. Stress that has become so overwhelming it has affected your ability to cope and live an effective life. Trauma is individualistic and it affects people differently. What may have been a traumatic event for me, may not have been for you. Symptoms of trauma are often depicted as depression, anxiety, restlessness, anger, feeling overwhelmed, exhaustion, relationship problems, sexual dysfunction, eating disorders, personality disorders, and so much more. The root cause of almost every mental health diagnosis can be traced back to trauma. As a trauma specialist, I look at your current issue causing you distress through a trauma lens. Although it may not be readily evident that you experienced a traumatic event, I partner with you to find the root cause of your distress.
I believe in taking a holistic approach to therapy, coaching, and consulting. Because not everyone is familiar with therapy, or on the same level of recovery, I believe in stepping Outside of the Box of traditional talk therapy, and doing whatever it takes to meet you where you are at your current stage of life. I believe therapy is not just about “fixing the mind” (ie thoughts and behaviors), but it is important to understand how our physical health and personal affairs also play a part in our mental well being. Thus, I incorporate an equal balance of wellness and harmony in your mind, body, and personal affairs. Some may call my approach to counseling, coaching and consulting unorthodox, as I step away from traditional approaches and ways of thinking. However, I believe in truly partnering with each individual client to meet their unique needs and accomplish goals. I am passionate about supporting individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, organizations, and communities throughout all of life’s transitions and challenges; as well as advocate for equality across nations.
My compassionate demeanor is, undoubtedly, impacted by my own multicultural background, traumatic experiences and exposures. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my husband, playing with my two children, traveling, writing poetry, and working out.
Additional areas of focus: Addictions, LGBT, Relationship issues, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Eating disorders, Sleeping disorders, Anger management, Self esteem, Career difficulties, Bipolar disorder, Coping with life changes, Coaching, Compassion fatigue, ADHD
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Dr. Bertrina Olivia West Al-Mahdi. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
Really understanding and helped me to understand what I needed to grow.
Written on Jun 15, 2022 after therapy with Bertrina Olivia for 2 years and 8 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy-related issues, eating disorders, sleeping disorders, parenting issues, self esteem, career difficulties, coping with life changes, coaching, compassion
Dr. West Al-Mahdi is a highly experienced and competent therapist. I've had one session with her and I am looking forward to continuing our work together.
Written on Oct 18, 2019 after therapy with Bertrina Olivia for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, parenting issues, self esteem, career difficulties, and coaching
My counselor Dr. West Al-Mahdi is the best counselor I’ve ever had. In the two months I’ve been with her I got more help than on the 5 years I spent with my former therapist.
Written on Aug 21, 2019 after therapy with Bertrina Olivia for 2 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, grief, eating disorders, sleeping disorders, self esteem, and coping with life changes
Dr. West Al-Mahdi is patient and attentive with my concerns. I am able to relax and speak freely with her. My patterns of thought are changing for the better. I am very thankful!
Written on Aug 21, 2019 after therapy with Bertrina Olivia for 1 month on issues concerning stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, self esteem, anger management, and coping with life changes
Wonderful counselor, I would highly recommend to anyone looking for assistance in any realm or matter. She has a beautiful way with words which puts things into perspective and makes you feel confident in dealing with your issues. Thanks for the help, Dr. O!
Written on Aug 16, 2019 after therapy with Bertrina Olivia for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, and adhd
Dr. O is incredible! Pride counseling was my first contact with therapy and she managed to make me feel comfortable and able to be open to her. I appreciate the convenience and flexibility of this service and would recommend Dr. O to anyone whether through online counseling or in person.
Written on Aug 04, 2019 after therapy with Bertrina Olivia for 2 weeks