Mark Pennick - Ph.D.

I began my working to help people in 2002, doing direct services for people with developmental disabilities. My career has included post-graduate work focusing on autism and resulting in a doctoral degree in Lifespan Developmental Psychology. I earned my Psychologist License in the State of Colorado during my 8 years of working with adults in the community mental health field. These diverse experiences have lead me to be adept at diagnosing mental health problems; as well as developing and delivering interventions throughout the lifespan and for the full spectrum of challenges experienced by those seeking services.

Currently, I focus on delivering Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Solutions Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). ACT is a third-wave behavioral technique that is applicable to a wide range of challenges, as well as ages. It focuses on mindfulness, cognitive flexibility, and taking valued action; that is, reacting to challenges by only, and to the exception of experiential avoidance, taking well-planned steps that get you closer to the core of what is most important in your life. CPT is an evidence based best practice developed by the Veteran’s Administration to treat PTSD and other trauma related disorders. SFBT is a therapeutic technique that is limited in the number of sessions delivered, and focuses exclusively on the strengths of the individual and in amplifying what is working to elucidate the desired outcome of therapy.

My approach to treating an individual is that every person has great and astounding strengths. This fact leads to positive outcomes in treatment and is embraced by my methods. I believe that all people are capable of excellence and that meeting each person where they are, with compassion and unconditional positive regard, is the best approach to helping others actualizing greatness.