Dr. McDermott on her approach to psychotherapy:
My approach to therapy incorporates evidenced based techniques that are specifically tailored to meet the needs of the individual. That said, I practice from a collaborative model which almost always employs elements of cognitive behavioral therapy. Other modalities of therapy that I often bring into session include, Mindfulness Based Interventions, Schema Therapy, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing). At almost every session I will use some type of brief outcome measure (short questionnaire) to measure the progress that is being made in therapy. I often assign homework for my clients outside of session to reinforce the topics that we are discussing and working on.
I believe that one of the fundamental tenants of psychotherapy is creating a safe space where the client feels comfortable and safe to explore their presenting concerns and share all aspects of their self. That said, I highly encourage individuals to call for a free consultation before they see me so that we can determine whether we might be a good fit in working with one another. I also assist clients with obtaining referrals for other providers as well.
While I do not prescribe psychotropic medications, I can assist clients with obtaining referrals for a consult for medication, and I often work in partnership with a client's primary care physician. Dr. McDermott is also a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) as well as a level 2 Anger Management Specialist.
My work with adults covers a wide array of topics and disorders including:
- Depression
- Anxiety and Panic
- Trauma
- Substance Abuse
- Self Esteem
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Life Transitions
- Chronic Pain
- Relationship Stressors
- Parenting
- Divorce or Change of Careers
Dr. McDermott is one of the only practitioners in the state of Hawaii to hold a certification in EMDR therapy and the only practitioner in the state to be certified in the Kazdin Method of Parent Management Training. She is also a member of the Gottman Referral Network. She has also completed a 100 hour course with Dr. Michael Yapko, one of the leading practitioners of clinical hypnosis.