Dr. Vesna Sturman is a licensed clinical psychologist whose approach to therapy is client- centered and research-based, meaning that she uses what is considered by research as an appropriate method to help with your issues. She will educate you about the different methods and the research behind why one might be more beneficial than the other for your presenting problem. Being client-centered, she works with you to find the best treatment method that feels right and comfortable for you. Included modalities are: cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, progressive relaxation, guided imagery, and mindfulness. These have been proven to be effective treatments for both mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, and physical problems such as chronic pain/illness. She also specializes in all forms of trauma, either past or current.

You will work together to set goals. There can be many goals or just a few. These goals may change in time, and your priorities may shift, but Dr. Sturman will do her best to help you at the present time and to prepare you for dealing with future stressors.

Together you will create a treatment plan that lists the goals, the ways that you will accomplish them, and how you will measure progress towards that goal. Dr. Sturman will ask for your approval of the plan, which can change at any time, and which you will review together periodically.

During treatment she actively listens, asking questions for clarification if needed or to help to lead to some resolution. She gives homework assignments if you are comfortable with that.

Dr. Sturman was born in Croatia and moved with her family many times. She grew up in Toronto, which was named by UNESCO as being one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the world. Her interest in different cultures led her to travel to over 60 different countries (mostly on a “shoestring budget”). She enjoys swimming, practices mindfulness, and her guilty pleasure is watching reality t.v.