Allie Vierra

During our sessions, we will collaborate to increase your self-awareness and self-acceptance. I utilize interventions that emphasize awareness of the present moment, exercises that integrate the mind and body and encourage focusing on staying with feelings, rather than avoiding them. Through this approach, it will help individuals to rethink limiting perceptions and create new perspectives. I strive to present my genuine true self and encourage you to do the same. Authentic change can only happen when individual feels secure enough to reveal their true selves. Not sure who you truly are as a person? That’s what we will aim to figure out! Our time together will encompass moments of genuine laughter and enjoyment, but will also involve periods of difficulty and unease. Instead of avoiding these challenging moments, we will learn how to be curious about our feelings, confront them in a safe and supportive way and learn a new approach to handle life’s inevitable obstacles in a new and constructive way. "Do you specialize in any areas?" I specialize in working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, addiction and challenging life changes. "What is your academic history and experience?" I completed my bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Criminal Justice at Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo. I then obtained my master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, Santa Barbara. I began my career at a local non-profit family services agency. Over the past four years, I have been managing a wraparound justice involved program through San Luis Obispo County, providing assistance to individuals with chronic homelessness, severe mental illness and substance use disorders. I have more than 7 years of experience working with individuals dealing with addiction, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and trauma. Additionally, I have extensive experience working with preteens, teens, and their families during the challenging developmental years. I have served youth involved in the child welfare system and teens and adults in the criminal justice system. "Do you accept insurance?" I currently accept Blue Shield, Blue Cross, Aetna and Oxford and use Headway to aid in navigation with insurances. I hope to be able to accept additional insurance in the near future. For those who would like to utilize their out-of-network benefits from another insurance company in the interim, I will provide a monthly superbill to submit for reimbursement. “How do I get started?” The key to a successful therapeutic experience is finding the right fit. Please contact me to schedule your initial session and set up a free 15-minute phone consultation. Whether or not we end up working together, I want to acknowledge the strength that it takes to reach out for help. Change can be difficult, but to quote the great Dolly Parton, “if you don’t like the road you’re walking, start paving another one”.