Doreen Hamilton, Ph.D.

As a Clinical Psychologist I have been working with individuals and couples for nearly 30 years. I am also a group facilitator, seminar leader, trainer, and business consultant. As Training Director of Speaking Circles International I lead programs and retreats worldwide. My compassionate coaching techniques lead to genuine presence and authentic communication.

Phone: 510-524-4055
Email: drdoreenh@cs.com
Web: www.essentialspeaking.com
Speaking Circles International
www.speakingquest.com

My approach:

My work with individuals and couples begins with deep and reflective listening. To make it safe to reveal your concerns, I first create a supportive environment where you can experience acceptance and non-judgment. This full welcoming of your genuine expression continues throughout our sessions.

You are an amazing puzzle. What you say verbally as well as what you don’t say communicate pieces of this picture. There may be parts that are hard for you to face, but together we gently turn to examine the difficulties and in so doing you build the courage to look boldly at the truth of your life.

Our time together has the purpose of helping you explore and discover your true self.

My belief in your natural power coupled with your willingness and determination to grow will lead you on a path of transformation. You can find your strength, tap into your heart’s desire, heal wounds, set goals, and achieve results.

Population:

I work with men and women, all ethnicities, all sexual preferences, and all levels of the economic spectrum.

I work with adults, 18-80 years old. For those who are transitioning out of high school, there may be social challenges with peers, career options that loom ahead, college preparation and academic decisions to be made.

For those in their 20’s to 80’s, life presents its challenges, some of which are specific to the time of life such as having children or concerns about aging, while others result from an unexpected turn of events such as divorce, disease and loss.

Specific issues around finding a loving partner, making commitments, and establishing a healthy connection are concerns that many people face. When you feel stuck in a difficult relationship, you may need to consider your options.

I can help you look at whatever is going on in your life and create solutions that will enliven your sense of well being and give direction and meaning to the path you choose.

Treatment for the following issues:

• Depression – how to find the energy that will uplift and motivate you
• Anxiety – learn to focus and calm yourself in any situation
• Relationship difficulties – experience a new way of listening to each other
• Life transitions – discover the opportunity waiting in the midst of change
• Eating disorders – find and maintain a healthy connection to food
• Grief and loss – move through pain to a brighter day
• Public speaking anxiety – dissolve fear and build your confidence

Area of Specialization:

Treatment for anxiety related to the fear of public speaking. I can work with you privately to ease your anxiety and help you tap into the power of your inner voice. I also lead seminars in which I gently guide people in a 7-step process that results in the confidence to stay fully present whenever you speak. My website is www.essentialspeaking.com

Therapeutic Specialties

I have been trained in a wide variety of therapeutic specialties and will integrate what is most appropriate for each individual.

• Interactive Therapy
• Interpersonal Therapy
• Behavior Therapy
• Cognitive Therapy
• Psychodynamic Therapy

The following techniques are helpful as needed:

• Hypnosis
• Guided visualization
• Meditation
• Dreamwork
• Breathwork
• I have additional training:
• Life Coaching
• Certified Speaking Circle Facilitator

Appointments

Most sessions are in person at my Berkeley, CA therapy office. I am also available by telephone and can arrange appointments for people who live out of the area.

Each session lasts 45-50 minutes.

Sessions are usually arranged from one to two sessions per week.

Most of my clients pay privately. I take the following insurance plans:

• United Behavioral Health
• Blue Shield
• Benefit Risk Management

My background

Ph.D. Counseling Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, 1988
M.S. Marriage and Family Counseling, San Francisco State University, 1980
B.S. Sociology, University of California, Berkeley, 1970