Bridges Therapy and Wellness Center is proud to offer Doctoral Psychology Externship for Clinical Psychology students in training to advance professional development.

Externs are masters-level, doctoral students who are pursuing their doctorate in Clinical Psychology.

Along with training future Psychologists, our Externship program allows us to offer therapy and testing services to the community at a significantly reduced rate, making clinical services available to a broad range of clients who might not otherwise readily afford such treatment. Direct supervision of our therapists in training allows them to build their skills while providing high-quality, cost-effective treatment to clients. All trainees are under the supervision of our Training Director and Licensed Psychologist, Dr. Megan Strause. Additionally, Dr. Justine Simpson, Dr. Sydney Mills, Dr. Lisa Kellogg and Dr. Michelle Mullaley assists in supervision of students as well. Please contact our office at 703-865-4900 x0 for more information.

It is no secret that life is uniquely challenging. Sometimes a person can experience a life event(s) that brings up distressing symptoms impacting their mind and body. It can lead to feelings of anxiety, fear, depression, trauma, and isolation. Therapy can address navigating through these challenges and painful experiences. During my clinical training, I have worked with a wide range of diverse individuals across ages struggling with issues ranging from depression, anxiety, adjustment, trauma, stress, family conflict, grief, academic difficulties, attention, and behavioral difficulties.

Therapy is a space to develop strengths and resources as well as examine problems and pain. In therapy, we will highlight your strengths, identify areas of need, and focus on how you can be kind to yourself throughout this therapeutic process. I will meet you where you are and introduce change at your pace in accordance with your individualized goals. Psychotherapy is a collaborative process, and I want you to feel comfortable in the therapeutic process as we work as a team in your process of discovery and reflection. I help clients look at the past – not to open old wounds – but to make sense of the present and prepare for the future. Developing insight can be empowering and lead to satisfying change. However, I know that “one size” does not fit all, so I strive to personalize every session to the client. I frequently implement concepts and interventions from psychodynamic, interpersonal, family systems, solution-focused, humanistic, play therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Of note, the therapeutic process may involve other individuals including, parents, teachers, spouses, and other supportive individuals, when appropriate.

I also offer comprehensive psychological evaluations to assist you or your child in gaining a better understanding of yourself, which can be used as valuable information in providing therapeutic recommendations. I approach both therapy and evaluations with warmth, respect, cultural sensitivity, humor, and optimism. I strive to offer a safe, accepting, and nonjudgmental environment in which clients have an opportunity to achieve their personal counseling goals and gain a greater understanding of experiences, suffering, and strengths. I am thrilled to be working at Bridges Therapy and Wellness Center, and I look forward to supporting you in your journey of growth.

Background: Danielle Bochert, M.Psy. is a Psychology Extern at Bridges Therapy and Wellness Center and a Doctoral student who attends The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Washington, DC. Danielle earned her Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Washington DC in 2020. Danielle completed her undergraduate studies from Bridgewater College. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a Human Health Services concentration and a Neuroscience minor. My training has included working with a diverse group of clients in various settings including private practice, elementary, middle, and high schools, university, and outpatient community mental health

Danielle Bochert, MPsy will be with Bridges Therapy and Wellness Center until Summer 2023.