Copyright © Carolyn Swearingen, Ph.D.. All rights reserved.

Biography


Licensed Psychologist

415-321-9171     •    carolyn@carolynphd.com

2161 Union Street   San Francisco, CA 94123

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I am a Licensed Psychologist and have been practicing psychotherapy with individuals and couples for several years. I was drawn to this profession from a young age out of a strong desire to connect with people in a meaningful way and use my natural skills and abilities to help individuals and families live more fulfilling and balanced lives. The work that I do and the progress I witness clients make each day continues to inspire me deeply.

I earned my Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology from Smith College with a concentration in Clinical Psychology. I went on to study at the University of Oregon where I earned a Masters of Science (MS) in Counseling and Human Services and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Counseling Psychology.

​During my graduate education I received training in university counseling centers where I had the opportunity to work with undergraduate and graduate students from diverse backgrounds. I was trained as an Eating Disorders Specialist and worked as part of a multidisciplinary treatment team providing individual and group psychotherapy to students struggling with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating and body image disturbances. Throughout my predoctoral internship and postdoctoral fellowship I supported individuals and couples in addressing a wide variety of issues, including: anxiety, depression, relationship and family problems, trauma recovery, codependency, grief and loss, and sexuality. I also led groups on Coping with Depression and Assertive Communication Skills, where I helped individuals develop skills to improve their self-esteem and self-care as well as enhance their communication skills and interpersonal relationships with others. 

​Since becoming licensed I have continued my path of learning by training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), in which I am now Certified. In conjunction with continuing to develop and enhance my skills in EFT Couples Therapy I have also been developing expertise in EMDR Therapy, a powerful therapy used to resolve a number of psychological issues stemming from difficult life experiences. I am now Certified in EMDR therapy. As a licensed clinician and lifelong learner, I am continually working on enhancing my knowledge base through continuing education, seminar/workshop/conference attendance, peer consultation, certification courses and professional community involvement. For more on my approach to working with clients, see my Individual Therapy, Couple Therapy and EMDR pages.

Professional Memberships:
  • International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy
  • Northern California Community for Emotionally Focused Therapy
  • ​EMDR International Association
  • ​Parnell EMDR Institute
  • Association of Professionals Treating Eating Disorders
  • National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Eating Disorders
  • American Psychological Association
  • California Psychological Association
  • San Francisco Psychological Association

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Licensed Psychologist, PSY 21657​


Contact Me   -   415-321-9171