Dr. Sharon Young

Hello! I am a Clinical Psychologist licensed in Pennsylvania with over twenty years of experience practicing psychotherapy. I earned a doctorate (PhD) in clinical psychology from Georgia State University. I have worked with clients of various ages (e.g., children to older adults) in a variety of settings (e.g., outpatient community mental health and health centers; outpatient private practices; inpatient units of private and public hospitals; a state psychiatric hospital; and a university counseling center). In addition, I have worked with clients experiencing a wide variety of psychological challenges and concerns, including: mood disorders (depression and bipolar); anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety; obsessive-compulsive disorder; and panic disorder); psychotic disorders; attentional difficulties; impulse control and behavioral problems; substance use and misuse problems; and problems associated with significant stress and trauma (acute-, post-, and complex post-traumatic stress disorders). Additionally, I have assisted clients in targeting specific behaviors, including persistent suicidal ideation or acts of self-harm. I have also assisted people in working on life issues and challenges, such as: grief; shame; adjustment difficulties; stress related to employment, education, or relationships; relationship difficulties; parenting challenges; self-esteem issues; problems related to identity; and experiences of imposter phenomenon. While I view clients’ difficulties and the therapy process through the lens of psychodynamic theory, my therapy style (or how I am “in the room”) is warm, collaborative, empathic, and client centered. I work hard to be present, listen attentively, and understand a client’s experience from his/her/their perspective. Also, I utilize techniques and strategies from various psychotherapies, including: cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based-cognitive-behavioral, dialectal-behavioral, compassion-focused, emotion-focused, narrative, and humanistic-existential therapies. I view clients as experts of their experience and work collaboratively on goals established for making psychological changes to improve their lives. You’re brave in seeking therapy to explore making constructive changes in your life. I look forward to working with you in this endeavor!