I have dedicated my life’s work to serving others and supporting their growth. This deeply rewarding journey has given my life greater meaning and taught me invaluable lessons. I am honored to be invited into the lives of clients who have entrusted me with their personal experiences, enabling us to collaboratively achieve their goals through self-discovery. At the core of my approach is a commitment to nurturing personal growth and fostering self-realization. Through our judgment free and collaborative therapeutic relationship, we will uncover the experiences that have held you back while supporting your strengths.
On a personal note, I started as a student studying hard science and music composition. After a few years, I realized my passion for helping others and decided to pursue psychology. For over 25 years, I have been privileged to help individuals, teams, and organizations as a licensed and board certified psychologist. When I'm not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, pursuing creative hobbies, being in nature, and exploring new and delicious restaurants in Charlottesville.
My qualifications
Credentials
1992 - B.S. from Clark University with a major in Psychology, and minors in Biology and Music.
1994, 1997 - Masters and Doctorate in Psychology from Nova Southeastern University’s Center for Psychological Studies.
1998 - Licensure in Clinical Psychology.
2008 - Board Certification in Clinical Psychology.
Leadership
I have had the privilege of leading regional and national organizations throughout my career as President of the Broward County Psychological Association and President of the Association of Counseling Center Training Agencies (ACCTA). Currently, I am a board member of The Association of Psychology Postdoctoral and Internship Agencies (APPIC) that supports doctoral programs in clinical, counseling and school psychology, as well as doctoral internships and postdoctoral residencies across the U.S. and Canada. My focus areas in leadership include promoting diversity in psychology, addressing social justice issues, improving internship and postdoctoral matching, and access/workforce issues within the field.
Speaking & teaching
I have given talks and joined panels at conferences and universities across the country. I speak about various topics in psychology such as contemporary trends in psychology, eating disorders and body image, brief therapy, mental health in college, and intersectionality. I have also taught graduate and undergraduate psychology courses at the University of Virginia, Nova Southeastern University, and Piedmont Community College.
After finishing my internship and postdoctoral residency, I started the Center for Personal Growth in Fort Lauderdale, Florida along with Dr. Bill Bracker. In 2005, I moved to The University of Virginia’s counseling center where I became the Training Director. In this role, I have trained hundreds of doctoral trainees who work as psychologists in the U.S. and internationally. I remain actively involved in psychology, addressing a range of issues in the field. national and regional issues. I am the author of "Choosing a Psychotherapist: A Guide to Navigating Mental Health," focused on helping those seeking therapy find the best fit.
My philosophy
The desire to become our best selves is natural, yet can be interrupted by difficult experiences in childhood or adulthood. During certain periods, we may feel like we are at our worst in our relationships or jobs. In therapy, I help people identify the underlying reasons that are hindering their natural drive for positive growth. This is done through connecting with their thoughts, feelings and physical experiences, which ultimately leads to better understanding of self and choices that support positive change.
Contact Dr. Zimmerman below for information about Therapy or Resilience Consultation