IPSC
 

Dr. Sara Patterson is a licensed clinical psychologist, PSY 26584, specializing in the therapeutic care and psychological treatment of adults, college students, and adolescents navigating Mood and Anxiety Disorders as well as grief and loss, relationship challenges, and life transitions using a solution focused application of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.  She has been part of the team at IPSC since 2011. Dr. Patterson completed her undergraduate work at the University of California, San Diego and earned her Master's Degree and Doctorates' Degree in Clinical Psychology at Alliant International University. 

 

Dr. Patterson’s primary treatment approach focuses on tailoring empirically supported treatments to individuals’ needs and using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to increase effective coping strategies.

 

Dr. Patterson’s background includes multiple years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She has worked in multiple community mental health agencies serving high-risk families.  She has experience working with adults and children diagnosed with mood and anxiety disorders, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and behavior disorders to provide effective coping strategies and improve functioning.  Dr. Patterson also has experience working with families providing positive parenting strategies, behavior modification, faith based counseling. During her training experiences, Dr. Patterson has had the privilege to work with individuals from many diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, an experience that has developed her passion for tailoring effective cognitive behavioral treatment modalities to individuals’ specific needs.

 

Dr. Patterson completed her doctoral dissertation with a focus on faith and spirituality, parenting stress, and children’s social and academic competence in elementary schools.  Her research investigated positive parenting practices, approaches to parenthood, and the impact of parent stress on fostering of healthy social skills in children.  

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Dr. Patterson was born and raised in a small town in Northern Italy and moved to San Diego with her family at the age of 14. This experience was the catalyst for the development of her passion for supporting individuals during difficult times of transition and helping others build resiliency during times of stress.

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In her personal time, Dr. Patterson enjoys spending time with her extended family, her husband, and three active boys, ages 11, 9 and 1.  She has a passion for cooking, staying active, and volunteering at local non-profit organizations. She is looking forward to continuing to serve our community by building relationships with individuals and helping them stay joyful and healthy.

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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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