Joyce Hoffspiegel, Ph.D.
clinical psychologist and psychotherapist

I provide a variety of psychotherapy and counseling services in my Palo Alto office. I work primarily with adult men and women, but I sometimes also see teenagers in the context of family therapy. I also consult with executives on organizational development issues, including team building and leadership.

During an initial consultation I help my clients clarify their presenting issues and define goals. This allows us to agree upon the treatment modality that makes the most sense at that time. Most patients are seen in individual psychotherapy however as we work together, other therapy modalities (couples, family or group work) might be suggested. I am flexible and responsive in either providing these services myself, or referring my clients and their partners or family members to other professionals. Additionally, I work closely with physicians and psychiatric colleagues and make referrals for medication consultations if symptoms greatly undermine my clients' well-being and if one is receptive to this.

I offer both short term psychotherapy as well as more long term work. Most of my clients are seen in weekly sessions although some people require more intensive work during periods of crisis, or in times of intensive self exploration. Months or years after the end of therapy, many of my clients choose to return for short term work or consultation in order to address new issues or developmental challenges. Most often, long term therapy is not needed for returning clients.

My theoretical orientation is rooted in psychoanalytic, self psychology and existential theory. I draw upon my background in developmental psychology, psychodynamic and family systems modalities. In my everyday work with clients I am an active therapist who poses astute questions and engages in dialogue aimed at promoting individual insight. During each session I provide direct feedback that facilitates my clients' ability to use new insights in their actual life activities.

My areas of expertise include mood, adjustment, personality, psychosomatic, and post-traumatic stress disorders. The issues presented the most frequently by my clients include:

• Depression, anxiety
• Anger management
• Trauma
• Relationship patterns
• Separation and divorce
• Personality development
• Eating disorders
• Self-destructive behaviors
• Life transitions
• Gay and lesbian identity
• Professional identity
• Parenting
• Organizational development