IPSC
 

Dr. Sara Patterson is a licensed clinical psychologist (PSY 26584) specializing in the therapeutic care and treatment of adults, college students, and adolescents navigating mood and anxiety disorders, grief and loss, relationship challenges, and life transitions.  Using a solution-focused application of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), she tailors treatment to each individual’s unique needs. Dr. Patterson has been an integral member of the team at Insight Psychological Services Center (IPSC) since 2011.

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Dr. Patterson earned her undergraduate degree from the University of California, San Diego, and completed both her Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Clinical Psychology at Alliant International University.  Her clinical approach emphasizes empirically supported treatments, with a focus on using CBT to help clients develop effective coping strategies. Over the course of 15 years in private practice, as well as her experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, Dr. Patterson has developed specialized expertise in helping young adults and college students navigate the unique challenges they face, including identity development, academic and professional stress, social pressures, and emotional regulation. She has extensive experience in addressing attachment issues and relationship difficulties, helping individuals and couples understand and heal from unhealthy relational patterns and create healthier, more fulfilling connections.

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Dr. Patterson has also worked with high-risk families in community mental health settings and has supported individuals diagnosed with mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, and behavior disorders, helping them improve functioning and cope effectively with life's challenges. Her background includes guiding families with positive parenting strategies, behavior modification, and faith-based counseling when requested

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Throughout her training and career, Dr. Patterson has had the privilege of working with individuals from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. This experience has shaped her passion for providing personalized, culturally sensitive cognitive behavioral therapy to meet each client’s unique needs.

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Born and raised in a small town in Northern Italy, Dr. Patterson moved to San Diego at the age of 14. This experience of transition ignited her passion for supporting individuals through difficult life changes and fostering resilience during stressful times.

Outside of her professional work, Dr. Patterson enjoys spending time with her extended family, her husband, and their three active boys, ages 13, 11, and 3. She has a passion for cooking, staying active, and volunteering with local nonprofit organizations. Dr. Patterson looks forward to continuing to serve the community by helping individuals build strong, healthy relationships and achieve emotional well-being.

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 Feel free to reach out to Dr. Patterson at drg@ipscsd.com to inquire about availability and appointment times. 

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