Joanna Cloutier,
PsyD Candidate
(She/Her)

My Approach

First and foremost, I aim to have a deep understanding of my clients’ experiences and to cultivate a trusting, collaborative therapeutic relationship. Research consistently shows the therapeutic relationship is the most important predictor of successful therapy, more so than any specific technique or model.

I approach therapy from a feminist lens, which means I see you as an expert on your own life. We will work together to meet your goals, while also paying attention to the broader social, cultural and systemic contexts that are shaping your experiences.

Alongside my feminist and collaborative approach, I use evidence-based practices and am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Trauma Focused CBT. I will work to understand your specific goals for therapy, and together, we will figure out the path that makes the most sense for you and your challenges.

Clinical Interests

I have a particular interest in working with adults navigating past or current trauma. I have specific training working with sexual violence and interpersonal violence survivors. I also enjoy working with folks experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, life transitions, and other stressors. Finally, I have experience working with individuals with OCD, including a specific interest in perinatal OCD, anxiety, and depression (which often go hand in hand).

About Me

I graduated from Bates College with honors and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. I spent two years working among psychologists at Massachusetts General Hospital before pursuing graduate school. Currently, I am enrolled in the Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) program at William James College. In the past, I have worked with sexual violence and interpersonal trauma survivors and people of all ages experiencing anxiety, OCD, depression, and complex trauma. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, gardening, crafting, and hiking!