Kimberly Balsam, Ph.D.
- Recovery from trauma and abuse,
including treatment of PTSD - Cognitive-behavioral treatment of depression
and anxiety - Couples therapy with same-sex
and heterosexual couples - Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender affirmative therapy
- Coping with illness, injury, and disability
- Coping with infertility
- Transition to parenthood
Theoretical Orientation
As a "generalist," I work with clients with a wide range of concerns and problems. My practice includes work with individuals and couples. My theoretical approach to therapy is primarily cognitive-behavioral and is also informed by interpersonal, family systems, and feminist therapy approaches. Cognitive-behavioral approaches focus on identifying and changing unhelpful patterns of thoughts and behaviors that may be contributing to emotional distress and problems in your life. I am also interested in learning about any relationship concerns, family problems, life events, and social or cultural factors that are relevant for you. I view the psychotherapy process as an individualized and collaborative one in which we will work together to identify problem areas, set treatment goals, and find effective ways to achieve these goals. I bring to the process my background and expertise in providing effective, empirically supported treatment; you bring your expertise on yourself and your own unique issues. Thus, your active involvement in the therapy process is a crucial ingredient for a successful outcome.
My style can be described as both supportive and directive. I aim to create a respectful, non-judgmental atmosphere in which you feel comfortable to discuss your problems, experience your emotions, and try out new solutions. I will ask questions that encourage you to think about your problems more deeply and in new ways. I will also give feedback on the concerns that you present to me and will make suggestions that I think might help you address these concerns. I will encourage you to actively work on the things that we discuss, both in session and outside of session. As therapy progresses, we will periodically assess your progress and make modifications in the treatment process as needed. Ultimately, my goal is for you to become empowered to live your life in accordance with your own goals and values and to cope effectively with life's challenges as they arise.
Background
Dr. Balsam earned her doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Vermont in 2003. She completed her internship at the VA Puget Sound Healthcare System in Seattle, where she received specialized training in the treatment of trauma-related disorders, substance abuse treatment, and couples therapy. She also holds a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from the University of Oregon, which she completed in 1994. Dr. Balsam has practiced psychotherapy and assessment for 16 years in several different settings, including community mental health, University Counseling Center, inpatient psychiatric hospital, and correctional settings as well as independent practice. She has been trained and supervised in a wide range of approaches to psychotherapy and assessment, including empirically supported cognitive behavioral therapies for depression, anxiety, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Dr. Balsam is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in the state of Washington and joined Associates in Behavioral Health (PLLC) as an Associate in 2003.
In addition to private practice, Dr. Balsam is a Research Assistant Professor in the School of Social Work at the University of Washington, where she conducts research on how social and cultural factors affect the mental and physical health of minority group members. She has published numerous scholarly articles and book chapters and has given talks at several professional conferences around the U.S., focusing largely on lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender psychology and the impact of stigma on individual and community well-being. She is also active in the American Psychological Association.
Insurance Panels
Dr. Balsam is a preferred provider for Aetna, First Choice, and Premera. She is also an out-of-network provider for several other companies. It is advised that you contact your insurance company to confirm that Dr. Balsam is available to you under your specific plan and to obtain information on session limits and co-payment amounts.