Shanna Alvarez, PhD
CONTACT:
Address: 1700 Westlake Ave N, Suite 400 | Seattle, WA 98109
My Practice
Shanna received her Ph.D in Psychology at the University of Washington and completed an APA- accredited internship in Clinical Psychology at UNC School of Medicine- Chapel Hill. She then completed her Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Clinical Psychology at the University of Washington’s Center for Human Development and Disability.
Shanna has worked in a wide array of clinical, educational, and research settings across the U.S and internationally. Her clinical and research focus has included autism spectrum disorders, parental well being, challenging behaviors and Acceptance Commitment Therapy. Shanna’s greatest passions are evidence based, systems-focused interventions. By embracing the familial and educational systems that surround each child, she truly honors the complexity of individual growth and change. To this end, Shanna currently specializes in the following:
Challenging Behaviors:
Shanna co-directs The Incredible Years® Program for families of children ages 3-9 with challenging behaviors. Interventions are provided in group or individual settings. Families may choose parent-only or parent and child interventions. All caregivers and family constellations are welcome (e.g., foster, adoptive, biological, multiple caregivers).For more information on these services, please click The Incredible Years® Program
Reducing Parenting Distress:
Often, the parenting experience does not match what we imagined or feel it “should” be. This disconnect can create shame, anger and distress. Shanna is passionate about helping parents reconnect with their values, within and beyond their parenting role. Re-connecting with these values can increase acceptance and inner peace within their family.
TEACCH Consultation for ASD:
Shanna is a certified TEACCH consultant, collaboratively creating structured learning environments for students with ASD in the home and school settings. She provides training and coaching for teachers and families. Online modules for parents creating structures in the home are also available.
Values Based Executive Functioning Coaching:
Teen and young adult years are full of “What’s next” and “what do I want” questions. This time can be particularly overwhelming those who struggle with executive functioning. Shanna enjoys co-navigating this journey by helping individuals identify their values, make peace with the “chatter” in their minds and in the world, and align their daily lives with their true values.
Dr. Alvarez believes in creating warm and authentic connections through which she can bring help evidence- based practices into the realities of her clients’ daily lives.
For testimonials, click here.
For information on her services and approach please visit www.helpingfamiliesthrive.com
New Client Inquiry:
Dr. Alvarez is currently accepting new clients. Please reach out via the contact form below.
We are also continuing to accept additional families into our The Incredible Years® programs every fall and spring. Please click here for more information.