Hi, I'm Dr. Chris and I am a psychologist with almost 20 years of experience. I have experience working in a number of mental health settings with a wide variety of clients. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, childhood issues, substance use, mood regulation disorders, self-harm, and trauma.
My style is warm and approachable and I focus on developing a healthy and collaborative therapeutic relationship. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, compassion, and honesty. Despite being a very scientific and experienced clinician, I am not a big fan of stigmatizing clinical labels and recognize the limitations of those terms. I prefer to try and see the whole person, not the label. I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities including Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, and a Psychodynamic approach. Regardless of technique or diagnosis, it is my perspective that learning to relate to your self and others is a central focus of the work.
I know, that it is a big step to be willing to open up to someone about your struggles and it takes a lot of courage to do that. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you.
I look forward to working with you!
Additional areas of focus: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, LGBT, Family conflicts, Intimacy-related issues, Eating disorders, Parenting issues, Self esteem, Bipolar disorder, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue, Autism and Asperger Syndrome, Blended Family Issues, Co-morbidity, Codependency, Dissociation, Drug and Alcohol Addiction, Family of Origin Issues, Gender Dysphoria, Immigration Issues, Military and Veterans Issues, Multicultural Concerns, Personality Disorders, Post-traumatic stress, Sexual Assault and Abuse, Social anxiety and phobia, Traumatic Brain Injury, Young Adult Issues
Clinical approaches: Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Dr. Chris Laviola. 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.
Listens to me very well and is a kind and gentle soul
Written on Apr 12, 2022 after therapy with Chris for 3 months
Took the time to understand my underlying diagnoses that affect my mental health, asked very good questions that showed he listened and was being thoughtful in his approach in order to get to know me and get past the initial facade. He was able to gain some level of initial trust with studied ease. I look forward to continuing to work on becoming a more present, calm and successful being with the good doctor’s help.
Written on Jan 25, 2022 after therapy with Chris for 1 month on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, sleeping disorders, parenting issues, self esteem, coping with life changes, compassion fatigue, and adhd
