Alexandra Willmes, MA

Training: Alexandra completed her master's degree through Pennsylvania State University and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Clinical and School Psychology at Roberts Wesleyan University. 

Expertise: Alexandra has obtained vast knowledge and expertise working with a diverse array of clients. Her range includes working with individuals of all ages in community mental health settings, alongside experience in running group therapy and conducting assessments. She has developed skills in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention in individual settings, aspiring to address the overlap between personality, anxiety, and trauma. At GVP, she specializes in OCD, which requires 25 hours of initial training on the gold standard, evidence based treatment for OCD (Exposure and Response Prevention, ERP), and 3 hours each week of ongoing training and supervision, throughout her tenure at GVP.

Diversity and Inclusion: Alexandra honors the intersectionality between mental health and cultural identity, welcoming continuous learning and growth as a means  to promote a safe environment for all. 

Approach: Alexandra places significant importance on the therapeutic relationship, tastefully using humor and self-disclosure to build trust and a sense of safety. She is person centered, providing psychoeducation for clients to understand and take an active role in the therapeutic process. While direct at times, Alexandra encourages clients to tap into the relationship to confront their anxieties and explore uncomfortable truths. The goal is to challenge in a way that is respectful, compassionate, empowering, and transparent while supporting clients towards making meaningful change. 

Ages: Alexandra works primarily with individuals 18 years or older.