Robert A

Robert A. Berley, Ph.D., C.G.P.
Licensed Psychologist
Certified Group Psychotherapist

1314 NE 43^rd St., #214
Seattle, WA 98105 (206) 935-4573

Treatment Philosophy

I offer psychotherapy with individuals and groups using an underlying dynamic perspective that integrates our early history with our abilities to respond creatively and flexibly in the present day. The aim of therapy is to facilitate the development of a stable base from which work, love and play can all be experienced as rich and satisfying aspects of a full and expressive life.

In the complex and often difficult process of individual development, early experiences are powerfully embedded in our ways of thinking and feeling even though they may operate outside of our daily awareness. Sometimes a particular experience is known to be an important impediment to a full participation in life, while sometimes the accumulation of smaller challenges combine in a manner that can be difficult to pinpoint.

In any case, the goal of psychotherapy is to become safe and secure enough to confidently tolerate our internal landscape so that the influential elements of past experience can be known, accepted, and then put aside to make room for different choices. The result is access to a creative internal world and to related, productive, satisfying, and affirming experiences with the world outside.

To work best, this process has to engage characteristics of each unique person. I therefore try to bring into the treatment as deep an understanding of an individual's subjective world as possible. The goals and components of therapy are developed and revised with each patient in light of their own history.

Background and Training

In 1971, I received my B.A. in physics and chemistry and an M.S. in Education from the University of Pennsylvania. I earned my doctorate from the University of Washington in 1983 and became licensed as a psychologist in 1986. For three years I was on the staff of an inpatient drug and alcohol treatment facility, and then for two years served at a hospital-based eating disorders treatment program.

My post-graduate psychoanalytic training is from the Seattle Psychoanalytic Institute and Society's CAPP (adult psychotherapy) program. I have been admitted as a member of the American Academy of Psychotherapists and am certified as a group psychotherapist by the American Group Psychotherapy Association. I am also a member of the American Psychological Association, and subscribe to their Code of Professional Ethics.

I have served on the faculties of Seattle University, Antioch University, the Washington School of Professional Psychology (now Argosy University) and the University of Washington where I am currently a Clinical Associate Professor, teaching group dynamics and supervising Residents in the Department of Psychiatry. I am a Fellow of the American Group Psychotherapy Association and served two terms as the President of AGPA's local affiliate. I also conduct consultation groups for therapists who work with individuals and groups in dynamic psychotherapy.

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