Mat Chirman

My approach to therapy….

Since 1999 I have worked successfully with adult clients dealing with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, abuse issues, personality issues, drug and alcohol abuse/dependence, and other relationship and mental health concerns. I specialize in and enjoy working with challenging problems that have been resistant to change. I have advanced training in Cognitive Therapy, and I use a variety of therapeutic approaches including mindfulness, skills building, stress reduction and psycho-education, and "anything that works", all within a context that is supportive, client-centered, and recovery focused.

I respect the strengths and knowledge that my clients bring with them to the therapy process. You are the expert in what will work in your life situation. I see my role as one of offering alternative perspectives, helping you develop life and relationship-enhancing skills, and supporting you in making positive changes in your life.

I have been happily married for 28 years and have two children, both adults. My interests include hiking, natural history, cooking and baking, and organic gardening.

My education and training....

I completed my Masters of Science Degree in Community Counseling with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy at Minnesota State University, Mankato. I hold a second Masters of Science in Educational Leadership.I am a Diplomate in Cognitive Therapy of the Beck Institute for Cognitive Therapy and Research in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I am a Standard Level Certified Individual Schema Therapist. I have additional specialized training and experience in the treatment of mental illness.

My specialized experience....

I am trained in treating both victims and perpetrators of intimate partner abuse and violence, and in the related field of anger management. Over the last 15 years I have facilitated treatment groups for clients with Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and Panic/Anxiety Disorders.

My licensing and professional affiliations…

I am licensed in California as a Marriage and Family Therapist (# 39579) and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (#551). I am a National Certified Counselor through the National Board of Certified Counselors (Certificate # 57159). I am a Diplomate of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy (#01049), and a Certified Individual Schema Therapist (#1122-S). I maintain a clinical membership in the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (#59707), the California Association for Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors(#5260376) the Academy of Cognitive Therapy and the International Society of Schema Therapy (#US000711) .

For more information, visit these websites:

• Psychology Today