Dr. Shammem Akhtar is a highly skilled clinical psychologist with expertise in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and intervention. Their clinical practice includes administering psychometric and neuropsychological assessments, such as intelligence, personality, and cognitive function tests, to diagnose mental health conditions. Specializing in adolescent mental health, Dr. Akhtar focuses on understanding the impact of parental expressed emotions on psychopathology and social-emotional competence, helping young individuals navigate emotional and behavioral challenges.
In therapy, Dr. Akhtar applies evidence-based approaches like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Family Therapy, addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, and emotional regulation. Their expertise also extends to neuropsychological rehabilitation, working with individuals recovering from brain injuries or cognitive impairments. Additionally, Dr. Akhtar integrates advanced research methodologies, including Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and mediation analysis, to enhance clinical interventions and contribute to psychological research.
My therapeutic style is client-centered, evidence-based, and integrative, focusing on creating a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions. I believe in collaborative goal-setting, where we work together to identify challenges, strengths, and solutions tailored to each individual’s unique experiences.
I primarily draw from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness-Based Approaches, helping clients develop emotional regulation, coping skills, and cognitive restructuring techniques. For adolescents and families, I incorporate Family Therapy to address relational dynamics, particularly focusing on how parental expressed emotions influence psychological well-being. My approach is holistic, considering not just mental health symptoms but also lifestyle factors, personal values, and social relationships to foster long-term resilience and self-growth.