Phone: (716) 221-0363
ALANNA M. LIPINSKI PH.D.
Licensed Psychologist
Welcome to my practice. I currently provide mental health care to children, adolescents, and young adults.
I have experience working with individuals with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, depression, and challenging behavior.
I utilize the following treatment modalities: cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT), mindfulness training, social skills training, parent training and consultation.
I believe in a goodness of fit in therapy. I invite you to continue reading to learn more about me and my practice. I encourage you to reach out with any questions.
SERVICES
ADOLESCENT/ADULT THERAPY
In therapy sessions, we'll work to solve current problems and improve positive thinking and behavior. We will work to "re-frame" your reactions and find the tools to help you cope with life's obstacles. Adolescent and adult therapy can be short-term and goal-directed to help manage difficult emotions or life transitions. Therapy can also be longer term to gain insight into the self, relationship, and behavior patterns.
CHILD THERAPY
Depending on the nature of the presenting issue, I work with children individually, or with the family together. A cornerstone of child therapy includes participation and follow-through from all parties. I can provide the tools necessary to be "on the same page" with one another. While change is difficult, I can help set, plan, and achieve goals within the individual child and the family. We can work through situations that cause distress at home or at school.
PARENT EDUCATION/TRAINING
Sometimes, children present us with difficult challenges such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, angry outbursts, noncompliance, and defiance. In some situations, it is best to work with the parents individually to teach behavioral strategies that can help alleviate stress at home. We will work together to problem solve difficult situations that arise.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Psychotherapy is difficult to describe as it is a different experience for everyone. It varies based on the personalities of the provider and patient, as well as the particular problems you wish to address. While my background primarily involves cognitive-behavior therapy, I first and foremost use a client-centered, individualized approach to therapy. Together, we will determine the correct approach for you or your child based on your needs, goals, and current research. I encourage communication and a good working relationship between us to help instill change.
ABOUT ME
I received my undergraduate degree at Canisius College, where I majored in psychology. I began working with children with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder at Canisius College through the Institute for Autism Research (IAR) in a number of research studies investigating the impact of group social skills training.
I received my doctoral degree at the University of Buffalo through the Counseling and School Psychology program. During my time at UB, I had the opportunity to work in various settings including schools, and a psychiatric center for children. I completed my doctoral internship at the IAR and completed my post-doctoral fellowship at The Summit Center, primarily working with individuals and families at the Behavioral Pediatrics Clinic.
I continued to work at The Summit Center's Behavioral Pediatrics Clinic before opening my private practice. In addition to providing therapy to children and adults, I enjoy teaching. I have taught courses at Canisius College for undergraduate and graduate students in Psychology and Education and online courses at Ball State University for Masters level behavior analysis students.