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Dr. Amanda Stanley, Ph.D, L.P. and her staff of clinicians provide in-person and remote diagnostic evaluation & therapy in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and beyond with an office located in Mansfield, Texas. Stanley Psychology treats a variety of conditions for patients of all ages, both individually and in group settings. Our Team Stanley Psychology is a group of experienced, unique, and passionate employees who work together to create a welcoming and supportive therapeutic environment for you. Each staff member is committed to evidence-based practice and ongoing professional development. Please see below to learn more about the team! Dr. Amanda Stanley Supervisory Psychologist & Owner of Stanley Psychology Qualifications: Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, Sam Houston State University M.A. in Clinical Psychology, Sam Houston State University B.S. in Psychology, Summa Cum Laude, University of Houston 15+ years of practice, 8 years as the owner of a private practice Selected Additional Trainings/Certifications: Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) Neuropsychotherapy Advanced Clinical Supervision Has instructed university-level courses in: Research Methodology (undergraduate) Psychology and the Law (undergraduate) Advanced Psychological Testing and Assessment (graduate) Rape Law (ad hoc lectures) Expertise: Trauma Recovery & PTSD Abuse & Violence Psycholegal issues Psychological Testing & Evaluation Anxiety, Mood Disorders, & Adjustment Disorders dr.stanley@stanleypsychology.com Dr. Amanda Stanley is a graduate of Sam Houston State University’s renowned Clinical Psychology doctoral program. During her tenure at SHSU, she published several articles in peer-reviewed journals on areas including trauma and psycholegal issues under her maiden name of Amacker, and worked as an instructor and peer supervisor for less-senior students. Her clinical experience spans areas including inpatient treatment, neuropsychiatrics, forensic psychology, outpatient clinics, and the federal prison system, where she worked in mental health services for seven years. Although she treats a wide range of clinical issues in her practice, areas of specialty include trauma recovery, substance abuse, and women's issues. Due to her training and research, she is an expert on sexual assault and has a passion for providing talks to groups on rape laws, psychological sequalae post-assault, and post-traumatic growth. She also enjoys providing talks to groups on substance abuse diagnostics and recovery. In addition, Dr. Stanley has developed expertise in conducting psychological evaluations and considers this a primary part of her clinical practice. In her free time, Dr. Stanley enjoys time with her husband, Adam, and their dog-children Roxy (16), Roux (6), and their latest addition, Raider (4); Riddle, also pictured, gained his angel wings in 2022, five weeks shy of 15. As an avid sports fan, she spends much of her down time watching New Orleans Saints football and Houston Astros baseball- she was born in New Orleans and grew up in Houston, hence the team loyalties. She relocated to the Dallas/Fort Worth area with her husband in 2016 and is happy to call this area home. Whenever possible, she enjoys spending time with her father, siblings, and kiddos of the family who range in age from 7 to 26 years old. The memory of her beloved mother, who passed in 2018, keeps her motivated to be the best she can be every day, in both personal and professional endeavors. Adam Stanley Co-Owner of Stanley Psychology Adam is a co-owner of Stanley Psychology, and as you may have guessed (or read above), Adam is Amanda's husband. Adam has an MBA from Texas Tech University and is an experienced strategic sourcing professional who currently works as a director for a large healthcare system. Additionally, Adam is often behind the scenes at Stanley Psychology, handling most of the business issues and allowing Amanda more time to focus on patient care. As a result you may see him in-office from time to time doing various tasks, such as checking the A/C system, running payroll, meeting with other professionals, and networking. In his spare time, Adam focuses on family time with Amanda and their dog-children. He also has a love for all things Texas Tech, his alma mater. As a sports-lover like Amanda, Adam's favorite time of year is the college football season, although he also promised to be a Saints fan for his NFL team in his wedding vows. The Stanley Psychology Team Proficient. Open-Minded. Empathetic. Dedicated. Veronica Guerrero-Quan, M.S. Licensed Psychological Associate - Independent Practice Veronica is a Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA) with Independent Practice (License # 38808), which is the most advanced Psychological Associate license. Click here to learn more about LPAs. Veronica attended Nelson University and earned her Master of Science in Clinical Psychology, Associate of Arts in Biblical Studies, and Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Veronica's clinical experience includes diagnostic testing and evaluation, trauma-informed therapy, assessing and addressing acculturation challenges, crisis intervention, family therapy, and spiritual integration. Additionally, Veronica has completed post-masters training to become a Certified Mindfulness-Informed Professional and integrates these skills into her treatment approach. She is also currently a seminary student who happily integrates faith into therapy treatment for people of faith. veronica@stanleypsychology.com Do you experience excessive worry? Do you experience significant fear or anxiety about a specific object or situation? Or about social situations? Do you intentionally avoid what you fear? Do you ever experience unexplained heart palpitations, sweating, trembling, chest pain, lightheadedness, difficulty breathing, tingling sensations, chills/heat sensations, or nausea? Do you struggle with insomnia, fatigue, or muscle tension? If you answered yes to ANY of the above questions, Veronica is your girl! She believes you deserve a life FREE from the crippling control of fear and anxiety. Her clinical experience includes treatment for anxiety, trauma, OCD, phobias, panic attacks, and stress management. In her personal life, Veronica is happily married and loves spending time with loved ones. Meet her niece in the picture! She places a high priority on faith and family, because life is too short not to! Her greatest joys also include learning, traveling, playing board games, hiking, and spending time outdoors. Veronica is first generation bilingual Mexican-American, meaning she is the first in her family of origin to be born in the United States. For this reason, Mexico holds a dear place in her heart and she easily relates to people of Latino origin. Morgan Brown, M.S. Licensed Psychological Associate Morgan is a Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA; License #40486). She earned her Master of Science in Clinical Psychology at Nelson University and has worked at Stanley Psychology in progressing positions since 2022. She has a heart for helping others since childhood and has a desire to make sure people feel heard and supported throughout life. With this passion, she sought education for this career path, having completed her Bachelor of Science in Human Services and Psychology before enrolling in and completing her graduate studies. mbrown@stanleypsychology.com Morgan is a compassionate therapist with a special passion for helping children and adolescents navigate anxiety, self-esteem challenges, and ADHD. She brings warmth and creativity to her work with young patients and their families, particularly those from underserved communities. While Morgan specializes in working with kids, her clinical skills extend to adults as well—especially those managing anxiety, struggling with adult ADHD, and navigating life transitions. Whether you're a parent seeking support for your child, or an adult ready to work on your own growth, Morgan creates a welcoming, judgment-free space where change and healing can begin. In her personal life, Morgan loves spending time with her husband and her pug puppies, Frankie and Harper. Her hobbies include crocheting, painting, and jigsaw puzzles. Morgan Flores, M.S. Licensed Psychological Associate Morgan Flores, M.S., LPA (License #40186), is a Licensed Psychological Associate who earned her Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from Nelson University. Since 2022, she has been grateful to serve as a clinician at Stanley Psychology. Morgan is committed to meeting clients where they are, offering support and evidence-based tools to foster intentional healing, personal growth, with the belief that the best is yet to come. She is honored to work with both individuals and couples, with clinical focus areas including marital and family conflict resolution, affair recovery, maternal mental health, and teenage/young adult girls. Additionally, Morgan is trained and experienced in conducting psychological evaluations. mflores@stanleypsychology.com Morgan is Christian and holds a pastoral license as an ordained minister. She has an academic background that includes training in Christian-integrated clinical care. She believes a person’s journey of faith can be beautifully coupled with the intentional work in therapy to see breakthrough, healing and truly abundant life as a believer. While this is certainly not an expectation that her patients hold this perspective, one of her joys is to make space in therapy to process emotional distress related to deep faith questions and use the Bible as a foundation for growth for those who center their life in Christ. If you find yourself wondering… Is this all life is meant to be? Am I doomed to always be depressed? Will my emotions run the show out of control forever? Will I always feel like a doormat to others? Will my past always cloud my future? Will I ever be able to open up and love my spouse again? Will “mom guilt” ever get easier? Is genuine peace even possible? … Morgan would love to meet you, express - you are not alone! And you do not have to navigate this alone. What is, and what always has been, does not have to be your story forever. Therapy can be a tool to turn the page and begin a new narrative today. Outside of her professional work, Morgan enjoys a full life with her husband and their three young children. Morgan is bilingual in English and Spanish, having lived in Nicaragua for several years in her early adult life, and enjoys Latino culture and Latino food. Her hobbies include enjoying a cup of coffee, playing strategic board games, painting, and organizing almost anything and everything. Jessica Simonetti, M.S. Licensed Psychological Associate Jessica is a Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA; TX License #40699). She earned her Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from Nelson University and also holds a Master of Science in Forensic Psychology from Nova Southeastern University. She has a background in neuropsychological assessment and has experience supporting individuals in acute mental health crises. jessica@stanleypsychology.com Jessica provides comprehensive mental health services to children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. She tailors her therapeutic approach to meet the unique developmental and emotional needs of each client, with a focus on creating a safe, respectful, and empowering environment. Her areas of specialization include perinatal mental health, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, grief and trauma, and behavioral challenges in children. Jessica is deeply committed to the belief that all individuals are inherently worthy of dignity and compassion. This principle informs every aspect of her work, from therapy sessions to psychological evaluations, allowing her to offer personalized care that honors each person’s story. In addition to her clinical work, Jessica co-owns a local gym in Abilene with her husband. Her passion for fitness and wellness informs her holistic approach to mental health, recognizing the profound connection between physical activity and emotional well-being. She often integrates lifestyle and wellness strategies into her therapeutic work to support clients in achieving balance and resilience. Outside the office, Jessica is a proud mother of two toddler boys and has been married for six years to her amazing husband. She enjoys playing tennis, hiking, traveling, and diving into true crime podcasts and mystery novels. Most of all, she cherishes quality time with her family. Karla Palma Practicum Student Clinician Karla Palma is a practicum student clinician at Stanley Psychology. Originally from Houston, Texas, Karla is currently completing her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology at Nelson University. She holds her bachelor’s degree in Pre-Professional Psychology from Nelson University. At Stanley Psychology, Karla offers reduced-cost services under the supervision of Dr. Stanley. Karla was drawn to the field of psychology by a strong desire to provide accessible mental health services to Spanish-speaking individuals. As an aspiring clinician, her goal is to serve immigrant communities, especially those navigating the complex and often distressing immigration process by offering culturally responsive care. In addition to her focus on immigration related mental health concerns, Karla is interested in practicing in the areas of identity development, family therapy, anxiety, and depression. In her free time, Karla enjoys listening to music, especially the Korean boy band, Straykids. She also enjoys reading books in the mystery and contemporary romance genres. karla@stanleypsychology.com Lisa Viviano Patient Care Coordinator Lisa Viviano, our Patient Care Coordinator, is dedicated to ensuring a smooth experience for all our clients, from scheduling appointments to managing the intake process. She is happy to assist with any challenges that arise. Lisa has over a decade of experience in administrative roles within healthcare and education, specializing in streamlining operations and enhancing client relations . Outside of work, Lisa enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and reading. info@stanleypsychology.com Norlisha Gistarb Billing Specialist Norlisha Gistarb, our Billing Specialist, has worked for over 18 years in the field of Physician Revenue Cycle Management, developing a wealth of knowledge in the field of medical billing. She earned her B.S. in Psychology and her M.A. in Adult Learning and Development from Northwestern State University at Louisiana. She has a passion for applying the vast skills and knowledge she has gained over the years for such a meaningful role in assisting mental health providers. Stanley Psychology is very blessed to have her as a part of the team! As Norlisha works behind the scenes, please direct any billing questions to our Patient Care Coordinator, Kelsye, who can consult with Norlisha as indicated. Raider Stanley Certified G.B. (Good Boy) Raider Burreaux Stanley is our 45-pound bundle of love and goofiness. As proof of the Stanley love of sports, Raider is named after Adam's Red Raiders of Texas Tech and Joe Burrow ("Burreaux" is the Cajun way), a legend in Louisiana. Raider is a mix-of-mixes (our favorite kind) and the youngest pup in our pack. Raider has completed two initial trainings and is working towards certification as a therapy dog. Although a bit shy at first, when he warms up, he brings a calming presence. During remote sessions, Raider has strong instincts with when he makes an appearance, often popping up when hearing a patient emotional. If you see him, feel free to say hi! Raider spends his free time lounging on the couch, playing football fetch with his dad, and following his mama around. If Amanda says “let’s go do the therapy, buddy!” he runs with excitement to the remote therapy area and gets comfortable in his spot. I have seen many therapists and nobody has been able to help me...until I found Dr. Amanda Stanley. Dr. Stanley has brought light and hope into my frequently dark world. I finally have hope for a much happier and brighter life.

Dr. Amanda Stanley, Ph.D, L.P. and her staff of clinicians provide in-person and remote diagnostic evaluation & therapy in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and beyond with an office located in Mansfield, Texas. Stanley Psychology treats a variety of conditions for patients of all ages, both individually and in group settings. PROUD SUPPORTER OF THE FOLLOWING ORGANIZATIONS AND EFFORTS ANIMAL SHELTERS & RESCUES MENTAL HEALTH MILITARY VETERANS AT-RISK CHILDREN STUDENT SUPERVISEES Stanley Psychology is an advocate for several charities and community efforts, and is honored to provide thousands of dollars in donations and time each year. Scroll below to view some of the causes closest to our hearts. NEW PARTNERSHIP ALERT! Stanley Psychology is proud to partner with Mansfield Mom Walk to offer compassionate, expert maternal mental health services. Together, we’re creating a safe space where mothers can prioritize their wellness, feel supported, and walk through motherhood surrounded by community. Learn More ANIMAL SHELTERS & RESCUES It only takes a minute of browsing the Stanley Psychology website to see that Dr. Stanley is massive dog lover. Although she loves all dogs, she is particularly fond of the dogs who have been rejected and need a second chance for love. Two of her dogs were discarded puppies, abandoned in the road (Riddle) and a shelter (Roux) days after Christmas. Roxy was another shelter animal, who was brought in as a stray and was days away from being euthanized. Raider may have the most dramatic story of all: he and his littermates were abandoned outside during the February 2021 Texas freeze at a mere three months old, and a rescue organized a 13-hour drive each way to get the dogs to a safe place. All that to say, three of the charities we support regularly are the Texas Sporting Breed Rescue (TSBR), the Second Chance Dog Rescue in Mansfield, and our local Mansfield, Texas animal shelter. TSBR is the rescue group that saved the lives of Raider and his littermates, which we are forever grateful for, and the local Mansfield community animal shelter is where Roux briefly called home after she was surrendered. Stanley Psychology takes pride in supporting the needs of these animals who are waiting for their forever homes, and highly recommends supporting these groups in their missions. Texas Sporting Breed Rescue Website Mansfield Animal Shelter Website Second Chance Dog Rescue Website MENTAL HEALTH As a mental health clinic, Stanley Psychology has a passion for supporting mental health efforts. Although there are several nonprofit mental health organizations that Dr. Stanley has supported throughout the years, two of her current nonprofit passions are the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Texas (NAMI Texas) and the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA). NAMI is an organization that focuses on the improvement of those impacted by various mental health conditions through education, support, and advocacy. For over 40 years, NAMI has been a beacon of help and hope, fighting for more research, better education, bolder advocacy, and broader public awareness of mental health.DBSA is a national organization that assists those with mood disorders with advocacy and support, including a large network of in-person and online support groups. This specific nonprofit organization is very close to Dr. Stanley's heart, as she donates in honor of a dear family friend who was lost in 2022. She was a second mother to Dr. Stanley since she was a child, and kindly provided additional support to her after the loss of her own mother in 2018. As a bonus, she is one of the few people Dr. Stanley has met that matched her love of dogs! Stanley Psychology is proud to support DBSA in her honor. If you would like to support the continued awareness of mental health, please consider visiting the below websites. NAMI Texas Website DBSA Website MILITARY VETERANS Stanley Psychology is a proud supporter of military veterans. After transitioning from military service, many veterans face challenges adjusting to civilian life, and therapy often plays a key role in helping them to reclaim their mental and emotional freedom. Despite industry attempts to increase access to appropriate mental health care, many military veterans continue to face barriers to receiving treatment. In an effort to address this significant issue, Stanley Psychology offers reduced costs and pro bono services through the office for evaluation services and treatment. We network with local veterans groups to ensure individuals are aware of these services and are given the opportunity to receive help. Dr. Stanley is particularly passionate about providing psychological evaluations to those going through the VA evaluation process for service-related benefits. We have had several cases where veterans who were previously denied benefits through the VA process were able to gain favorable decisions for compensation benefits through our evaluations and treatment. Please reach out to the office if you or someone you know could benefit from these services. Click Here to Contact Us! AT-RISK CHILDREN The Texas Pythian Home for Children is a nonprofit organization that provides safe and stable environments for children. These children are typically from families suffering from homelessness, unemployment, drug/alcohol addictions, and incarceration, and as a result are unable to care for the child. This group home is licensed by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services and is located in Weatherford, Texas. This home is of particular interest for Dr. Stanley for two reasons. First, Dr. Stanley's mother had a passion for assisting this home, and after her death the family requested donations for this home in her honor in lieu of flowers. Second, after working in prison environments and treating countless individuals with drug and alcohol addiction, Dr. Stanley has seen firsthand the impact these issues can have on a family, and support for innocent children in these circumstances is of the utmost importance. Texas Pythian Home for Children Website STUDENT SUPERVISEES Dr. Stanley donates countless hours of her time to assist in the training of Stanley Psychology’s student clinicians. Clinical supervision gives students firsthand experience with a trained professional and prepares them for their own professional career as they work alongside their supervisor to identify their strengths and opportunities. This process enables students to improve their own clinical performance, treatment effectiveness, and patient care. Because these pre-licensed clinicians require supervised experience as a requirement of licensure, many licensed supervisors charge their hourly rate for the time training the students. However, Dr. Stanley is passionate about training our future clinicians, and offers these services as part of her pro bono work, saving students in training thousands of dollars. Due to this policy, Dr. Stanley is able to engage in an application and interview process with potential trainees, and be selective in choosing student clinicians for a training year. Dr. Stanley believes we only accept the highest quality students, and, as a result, can offer top-tier services to our patients through their work. Click Here to Contact Us!

Dr. Amanda Stanley, Ph.D, L.P. and her staff of clinicians provide in-person and remote diagnostic evaluation & therapy in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and beyond with an office located in Mansfield, Texas. Stanley Psychology treats a variety of conditions for patients of all ages, both individually and in group settings. Testimonials Scroll down to view the incredible feedback Dr. Stanley and Stanley Psychology has received from patients and fellow professional clinicians. PATIENT TESTIMONIALS "I have experienced anxiety and depression for many years. I have seen many therapists and nobody has been able to help me ... until I found Dr. Stanley. I’ve been in her care for over 8 months. During that time, Dr. Stanley has brought light and hope into my frequently dark world. She has taught me how to deal with difficulties when they arise, and provided the tools to deal appropriately with life’s challenges and quickly recover. As a result my dark despair has lifted, and I finally have hope for a much happier and brighter life. I see Dr. Stanley virtually on my computer screen which is very convenient as I don’t have to travel to and from her office. Dr. Stanley is a kind and caring person, she listens, she helps. She has the highest credentials ….. and it shows. Dr. Stanley is, quite simply, the very best of the best!" "I have suffered from depression which at times has been completely debilitating. When I first met Dr. Stanley I wasn’t sure if she would be able to understand my issues since I am much older than she is. But, I needed a therapist and decided to give it a shot. That was a great decision! In the time that I have been seeing Dr. Stanley she has helped me redo my thinking patterns. I used to just spiral down when stress hit me, thinking there was no way out and that it would just get worse. Now I realize that Dr. Stanley has been guiding me to change my thinking patterns to more positive and healthy ways of dealing with life’s hard times. I am much more able to handle stress by thinking differently when the challenge first arises. I come up with healthier ways to look at the situation and come up with healthier alternatives. I am not “cured” and may never be, but I am so much happier and healthier than ever before. If you are looking for a very competent and caring therapist I definitely recommend that you give Dr. Stanley a call." "Dr. Amanda Stanley has been a godsend to me. Up until about a month ago, I was in a very emotionally abusive job. I was referred to Dr. Stanley who has helped me to realize that I AM a good and caring person. I was always doubting myself and feeling I was worth nothing to others. I could not sleep or eat, and dreaded going to a job that I once loved. After just a few sessions with Dr. Stanley, I realized I am a better person, have a lot to offer others and can begin believing in myself. She has helped me find the good in myself. She is kind, soft-spoken and is the greatest listener I have ever known. I will continue seeing Dr. Stanley, as it uplifts me more than anything else. I am forever grateful to have met her!" "I started seeing Amanda in May 2018. Our first meeting was not your typical 1st time visit. I had a major crisis (in my eyes) about seeing a family member in the next week. She calmed me down, gave me excellent advice and I survived. Now, years later, Amanda has been fantastic. She listens to everything I have to say and then explains everything I need to know about how to live my life without guilt, confusion, anger and helps me navigate to becoming a better version of myself. I’ve been to several counselors, and Dr. Amanda Stanley has been my life savior and I am forever grateful for the things she has taught me and I look forward to the many lessons she will help me with in the future." "I was lost and now I'm found. I fought our Department of Veterans affairs for over 13 years. What I was telling them was true, but the words that I was using were emotional. Dr. Amanda Stanley saved my life. She took an enormous amount of her time to test me, to learn who I am and to understand what combat in Viet Nam had done to my brain. She then compared those findings to world knowledge and put ink to paper in words that the VA could understand. After years of near death desires – the VA understood the clinical effects that over 300 days in combat had on my life. The VA granted me Service Connection for everything that she examined me for. I have referred other Viet Nam Combat Veterans to Dr. Stanley with the same results." I was very satisfied with my experience in therapy with Veronica! feel like our discussions led to deeper understanding of my anxiety, but also the root of it and how to cope in healthy ways. We had great talks about the brain, too, and I loved learning more about how the brain works in relation to anxiety. What we talked about were things I could relate to all areas of my life, too, and I've been able to share with others around me! Veronica did a great job of validating my feelings and anxiety. She had the perfect combination of allowing me to feel comfortable and validated, while also challenging me in gentle ways that I know was really helpful. I felt very comfortable and safe and never felt like I needed to hold anything back. I felt that I could be honest and vulnerable in each of our sessions. I'm very thankful for therapy. A year ago, I was in a place where I thought I would have this debilitating anxiety forever. I am a completely different person now and have grown immensely and am so excited to go through each day without the lingering anxiety I dealt with before. "One candle wipes out darkness. One step can start a journey. One voice can speak with wisdom. One life can make a difference….this is Dr. Stanley! Dr. Stanley has demonstrated to me that consistent hard work leads to success. She is kind and caring, and has helped me beyond measure in the toughest of times." "Dr. Stanley, thank you for your professional assessment and diagnosis. The judge issued a favorable decision and order of 100% Service connection for post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depressive disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. It is very clear that your report and diagnosis was a major factor in the judge finding in our favor. Without your professional evaluation, I am convinced all appeals would have been continually denied. Your patience, procedures, and detailed evaluations were excellent. You are a first class professional and psychologist." "Your encouragement and constant reminder to not put added pressure on myself to control every outcome has drastically changed my outlook on life. I am forever grateful for you seeing the need to change for the betterment of my mental health and pushing me to go after it." Morgan Brown has always been so patient with my kids and does well to connect and engage with them. "I cannot thank you enough for walking with me through the most difficult journey. You show me over and over that you will continually give your all & do everything in your power to help me, however you can, for as long as I need. I can’t explain how much you’ve helped me live a more normal life!" PROFESSIONAL TESTIMONIALS "I’ve had the pleasure to work with Dr. Stanley since 2018. The success of individuals participating in our program is dependent on competent, complete, and thorough assessments – Amanda has provided us with above-and-beyond competent, complete and thorough evaluations. Her level of knowledge, skill and expertise in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of substance use disorders & mental health/personality conditions is exceptional and what I consider the “gold standard” in our field. Her report writing skills are fantastic and she always maintains excellent communication with me regarding our mutual clients. Without hesitation, I would recommend Dr. Stanley to provide the highest level of evaluation with integrity, attention to detail and professionalism.” Roland Rodriguez, LCDC, TPAPN Case Manager "Dr. Stanley is a highly skilled evaluator, diverse, and knowable on both DSM-V and ASAM criteria. As a professional in the field, Dr. Stanley has always been giving of her knowledge and expertise and as a case manager her services is greatly valued." Corinne Hernandez, MS, LCDC, TPAPN Case Manager I completed my Master’s-level Practicum and Advanced Practicum hours with Dr. Stanley at her private practice. During my time at Stanley Psychology, I learned a lot from Dr. Stanley’s previous experience and expertise in criminal psychology, substance abuse disorders, Veteran assessments for disability, testing/assessment including report writing, and therapy. It was such a delight being able to observe Dr. Stanley’s unique approach to every client based on case and client needs. I learned more about professional “tough love” with clients that tend to deceive or deny personal shortcomings. I LOVED IT. Dr. Stanley and I still maintain a positive relationship to this day. Veronica Guerrero-Quan, Licensed Psychological Associate, Former Practicum Clinician at Stanley Psychology MORE QUESTIONS? CONTACT US

Postpartum rage is an intense and often misunderstood experience many new parents face after having a baby. While the early months of parenthood are often described as joyful, many people experience overwhelming anger, irritability, and emotional exhaustion. Having a baby is supposed to be one of the most joyful experiences of your life. You imagine holding your newborn, feeling that instant bond, and being swept up in all the love and excitement a new family member brings. But for a lot of parents, the reality is way more complicated. Along with the joy, there’s the exhaustion, the anxiety, and sometimes this intense, overwhelming anger. It’s confusing, scary, and honestly, a little shameful to feel rage when you’re “supposed” to be happy. You snap at your partner, yell over the smallest things, or feel frustrated in ways that make you wonder if you’ve completely lost it. And then comes the guilt. No one really talks about it, so you’re left wondering if something is wrong with you. That full-body, white-knuckle fury; the kind that feels disproportionate and nonstop is rarely mentioned in nine months of prenatal visits, in every baby book, or in all the well-meaning advice you get. I remember the first time I actually said it out loud to my doctor: “I’m not sad. I’m furious. At everything. All the time.” And she didn’t flinch. She just nodded and said, “That’s one of the most common things I hear, and it is one of the least talked about.” Postpartum anger is more common than many people realize, yet it’s often hidden behind the expectation that new parents should be endlessly patient, endlessly loving, and endlessly grateful. The truth is, your body and mind are going through enormous changes, and your emotions are naturally affected. Recognizing that anger is a normal, understandable response to these pressures is the first step toward managing it effectively. What Is Postpartum Rage? Postpartum rage is intense anger or irritability that occurs after giving birth. Unlike the typical “baby blues” or occasional frustration, postpartum rage can feel sudden, overwhelming, and difficult to control. You might notice yourself snapping at loved ones, yelling over minor inconveniences, or feeling a deep sense of frustration that seems to come out of nowhere. It’s important to understand that postpartum rage is not a sign that you’re a bad parent. Your brain and body are undergoing massive changes after childbirth. Hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, and the stress of caring for a newborn can all amplify emotions, making it easier to feel triggered or frustrated. For some parents, these feelings are linked to anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma, while for others, they emerge simply from the exhaustion and pressure of new parenthood. Recognizing postpartum rage as a legitimate, common experience is the first step toward understanding it and finding ways to cope. You are not alone, and these intense feelings don’tmean you love your baby any less. They just mean your nervous system is overwhelmed and in need of support. What strikes me now, looking back, is how much the anger made sense once I understood what was driving it. It wasn’t random. It was a signal. How Common Is It? Postpartum rage is more common than the silence around it would suggest. Up to 1 in 5 new mothers experience clinically significant postpartum depression, and irritability and anger are actually among its most common symptoms. Some researchers even argue that anger may show up more than sadness, especially in women who have been socialized to suppress certain emotions but not others (Altshuler et al., 2000; O’Hara & McCabe, 2013). For many parents, that full-body, white-knuckle fury isn’t a side effect. It’s a core part of what they’re experiencing. And it’s not just birthing mothers. Fathers, non-birthing partners, and adoptive parents report postpartum anger too (Paulson & Bazemore, 2010; Cameron et al., 2016). So while hormones can play a role, rage is also about the very real pressures of new parenthood: the relentless sleep deprivation, the sudden shift in identity, the strain on relationships, and the constant demand to keep everything under control. Research backs this up. A 2018 study found that irritability and anger predicted persistent postpartum depressive symptoms more strongly than sadness alone (Sutter-Dallay et al., 2018). A 2021 review highlighted that anger is often underdiagnosed and undertreated in the postpartum period, even though it can affect both parent and baby (Giallo et al., 2021). The takeaway is clear: postpartum rage is real, it’s common, and it doesn’t mean something is “wrong” with you. It’s the result of biology, stress, sleep deprivation, and the massive life changes that come with having a new baby. You’re not alone, and talking about it doesn’t make you a bad parent. It makes you human! Why It Happens: Hormonal withdrawal After birth, estrogen and progesterone drop sharply and rapidly. These hormones play a huge role in regulating mood, and their sudden withdrawal can destabilize the brain’s emotional circuitry, making ordinary frustrations feel unbearable. Your nervous system is not overreacting, it is genuinely dysregulated. It’s not about being “too sensitive”; it’s your biology recalibrating under extreme stress. The neuroscience of sleep deprivation The prefrontal cortex, which is the part of the brain responsible for impulse control, planning, and emotional regulation, is one of the first casualties of sleep deprivation. New parents are routinely operating at levels of sleep loss that would be considered a clinical emergency in anyother context. Anger is not a moral failing in this state. It’s a predictable neurological consequence of running on empty, and understanding that can be surprisingly freeing. The invisible load Even in households that consider themselves equal, the cognitive and physical labor of new parenthood often lands disproportionately on one person. The constant anticipation; feeds, naps, diapers, developmental milestones and the mental management of everything else that nobody else sees or thanks you for, accumulates like snow in a storm. When that work goes unacknowledged, resentment is not irrational; it’s rational. And eventually, it surfaces as rage. Grief that has nowhere to go Becoming a parent comes with real losses: your autonomy, your previous identity, your body, your career trajectory, even the relationship you once had with your partner. That grief is valid, but it’s rarely given space. In my experience, when grief is not recognized or expressed, it often comes out as anger instead, and is raw, surprising, and sometimes frightening in its intensity. Layers upon layers What I’ve learned is that postpartum rage is rarely about one thing. It’s not just hormones. It’s not just sleep. It’s not just the invisible labor or the grief. It’s all of those things, colliding at once, and amplified by the pressure to be calm, happy, and grateful every single moment. It’s the perfect storm for anger, and it doesn’t mean you’re failing as a parent. It means you’re human. Why Nobody Warned Us & What Can Help Postpartum rage is common, yet rarely discussed. The research on mood changes, irritability, and anger after birth exists, but cultural expectations around motherhood often enforce silence. New parents are expected to feel joy, fatigue, or occasional sadness, but anger, especially toward one’s baby or partner, does not fit the script. This can create shame and prevent people from seeking help, even when symptoms are distressing. Addressing postpartum anger often requires multiple approaches. A first step is acknowledging the feelings and discussing them with a healthcare provider. Screening tools, like the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, can help provide a clinical framework, confirming that these experiences are recognized and treatable rather than character flaws. Therapy with a clinician who specializes in perinatal mental health can be especially helpful. Such specialists can help identify the underlying factors contributing to anger, including exhaustion, grief, and perceived inequities in household or caregiving responsibilities, and provide strategies to manage them effectively. Structural changes, such as having clear conversations about the distribution of labor at home, are often necessary in addition to therapy. Clarifying roles, responsibilities, and expectations can help reduce the stress and resentment that fuel anger. Medication may also be part of a treatment plan for some parents. SSRIs and SNRIs are often considered compatible with breastfeeding, and pharmacological support can be an important tool for addressing neurochemical contributors to mood dysregulation. Recognizing the need for medication is not a weakness but a valid component of treatment. When to Seek Help for Postpartum Rage If postpartum anger feels overwhelming or begins affecting your relationships, daily functioning, or connection with your baby, professional support can help. Therapy with a clinician who specializes in postpartum mental health can provide strategies to regulate emotions, process stress, and restore balance during this transition. You Are Not Who You’re Afraid You’ve Become The version of yourself standing in that kitchen at 3 a.m., white with rage, is not your “true self” revealed. She is a person under extraordinary physiological and emotional strain, navigating a culture that underprepares and undersupports new parents, experiencing a recognized clinical symptom that has been kept quiet for far too long. This anger is not evidence that you don’t love your child. Often, it’s a sign of just how much you care and how little margin you’ve been given to do this well. Reach out. Tell your doctor. Find a therapist who understands this territory. Let someone see the whole picture. The shame that keeps postpartum rage hidden is what makes it hardest to heal. You don’t have to face this alone. If you feel like you need support, I would be honored to help guide you through this challenging time. Through therapy, we can work together to understand the roots of your anger, develop coping strategies, and create space for relief, healing, and self-compassion. Need Support After Baby? If postpartum anger or overwhelm is affecting your daily life, support is available. Schedule a session with me at  Stanley Psychology today. Call: 817-592-0750 To schedule a session with me, you can contact Stanley Psychology at 817-592-0750 or email info@stanleypsychology.com . Remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You are capable, resilient, and deserving of support. With the right tools and guidance, you can reclaim calm, confidence, and joy in your parenthood journey.

Struggling with intrusive thoughts or OCD symptoms? Stanley Psychology offers evidence-based OCD therapy, including virtual appointments for clients across Texas and in-person sessions in Mansfield. 📞 Call: (817) 592-0750 📩 info@stanleypsychology.com Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often portrayed as extreme cleanliness, organization, and the need for control. But let’s get real for a second… someone can be clean, organized, and have an anxious need for control without having OCD. And here’s the important part: many people with OCD don’t relate to this stereotype at all. This misunderstanding causes people to doubt themselves, minimize their symptoms, or assume what they’re experiencing “doesn’t count” as OCD. As a result, many individuals delay getting the support that could genuinely help. If you’re experiencing intrusive thoughts or compulsive behaviors that feel overwhelming, support is available. Stanley Psychology offers evidence-based OCD therapy, including virtual therapy appointments for clients anywhere in Texas, as well as in-person sessions in Mansfield. So let’s clear this up. What is OCD? OCD is characterized by obsessions and/or compulsions. Obsessions are: Recurrent and persistent thoughts, urges, or images that are experienced, at some time during the disturbance, as intrusive and unwanted, and that in most individuals cause marked anxiety or distress. The individual attempts to ignore or suppress such thoughts, urges, or images, or to neutralize them with some other thought or action (i.e., by performing a compulsion). In everyday language: these are thoughts that show up uninvited, feel disturbing or alarming, and refuse to let go—no matter how much you wish they would. Compulsions are: Repetitive behaviors (e.g., hand washing, ordering, checking) or mental acts (e.g., praying, counting, repeating words silently) that the individual feels driven to perform in response to an obsession or according to rules that must be applied rigidly. The behaviors or mental acts are aimed at preventing or reducing anxiety or distress or preventing some dreaded event or situation; however, these behaviors or mental acts are not connected in a realistic way with what they are designed to neutralize or prevent, or are clearly excessive. Compulsions can be visible or completely invisible to others. And yes, mental compulsions count. A crucial (and often missed) feature of OCD A crucial element of OCD is that obsessions are usually NOT in alignment with your identity or value system. That is why obsessions tend to be so disturbing. OCD doesn’t latch onto random topics. It goes straight for what you care about most. And then convinces you that the very presence of the thought means something terrible about you! Here’s what that can look like. Example: Intrusive thoughts that go against your values For example, let’s say you are a very family-oriented person who wants to become a parent one day. And to your horror, you keep having recurrent and persistent intrusive images of inappropriately touching your beloved niece. It FREAKS YOU OUT each time this thought pops in your head. You have never done something like this before and the mere thought of it disgusts and distresses you. Then you might doubt, “ Is me thinking this proof that I am a pedophile, or that I might become one? Am I a danger to children? Should I avoid my niece? Maybe I can’t become a parent after all… ” The extreme distress might lead you to avoid people and situations. It might even drive you to perform certain compulsions. Maybe you learn to tap a certain number of times when the intrusive image pops in your mind. Or maybe you learn to say a specific prayer each time. Or maybe you intentionally picture something else mentally immediately after the intrusive image, to replace that horrific image with something positive or neutral. This cycle becomes overwhelming and causes your quality of life to diminish. What’s important to understand here is this: the distress exists because the thought is unwanted and deeply inconsistent with the person’s values. That mismatch is a hallmark feature of OCD. It is not a sign of intent, desire, or character. Another common OCD presentation: Fear of causing harm through illness Let’s go over another example to highlight how OCD is against your value system: let’s say that you fear spreading illness to those you love. You love your family and friends so much that you would never want to cause them any kind of harm or inconvenience. In the last year or so, you have become very concerned about getting sick and then feared inconveniencing or harming those around you by spreading the illness to them. You begin to experience recurrent and persistent intrusive thoughts like, “ What if I get COVID-19 and pass it along to my immunocompromised mom?” or “ What if I have asymptomatic virus and pass it on to my niece or nephew? After all,… sickness runs rampant this time of year.” These thoughts become so persistent that you decide to just deal with it and wash your hands excessively, to the point of hands getting raw despite using lotion. You also carry hand-sanitizer with you 24/7 and refuse to touch commonly touched surfaces or items. Your quality of life diminishes as this concern takes over your life and the freedom you once used to have. Again, OCD is doing what it does best: targeting love, responsibility, and care. It turns it all into fear. What all forms of OCD have in common OCD can focus on a variety of topics such as health, morality, relationships, taboo thoughts, harm, religion, etc. That said, most presentations share several core features: Intolerance of uncertainty Overestimation of responsibility or threat Temporary relief from compulsions that reinforces the cycle OCD targeting what you value most Different content. Same exhausting loop. OCD Therapy Options in Texas Many people struggling with intrusive thoughts benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)  and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) , which are considered the gold standard treatments for OCD. At Stanley Psychology, our therapists specialize in helping individuals manage obsessive thoughts, reduce compulsions, and regain control of their daily lives. Our approach may include: OCD therapy for intrusive thoughts• Treatment for compulsions and repetitive behaviors• Support for anxiety related to OCD Virtual therapy appointments available across Texas • In-person therapy sessions in Mansfield If you're unsure whether what you're experiencing might be OCD, speaking with a trained therapist can help provide clarity and a path forward. When Should You Seek Help for OCD Intrusive Thoughts? If intrusive thoughts or compulsive behaviors are interfering with your daily life, professional support can help. Our therapists at Stanley Psychology provide compassionate, evidence-based OCD treatment  to help individuals understand their symptoms and begin reclaiming their lives. You don’t have to figure this out alone. 📞 Call to schedule a consultation:  833-849-1009 📩 Or contact us through our website to get started. OCD is treatable. There is real hope. I promise! If you’re reading this and thinking, “ Wow… this feels uncomfortably familiar,” I want you to know something important: There is so much hope. The gold standard treatment for OCD is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), an evidence-based therapy that helps individuals learn to tolerate uncertainty, reduce compulsions, and reclaim their lives. This is done without needing 100% certainty first (because spoiler alert: OCD never accepts 100% certainty anyway). I also incorporate Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT), an OCD- specific approach that helps people learn to trust themselves again and step out of the doubt spiral OCD creates. You’re not broken, and you’re not alone! OCD can feel convincing, loud, and relentless. It can also be incredibly isolating; this is especially true when the thoughts are embarrassing, scary, or hard to explain. But OCD does not define who you are. If any of this resonates with you, support from an OCD-specialized therapist can make a meaningful difference. Helping people loosen OCD’s grip and reconnect with their values is genuinely one of the most rewarding parts of my work. And yes, you don’t have to do this alone. 💛 If you'd like to learn more about treatment options, you can also learn more about our therapy services at Stanley Psychology . Hope to chat soon, Veronica Guerrero-Quan, LPA-Independent Practice Frequently Asked Questions About OCD Can OCD cause intrusive thoughts? Yes. Intrusive thoughts are one of the most common symptoms of OCD. Is OCD treatable? Yes. Treatments like CBT and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) are highly effective. Can I receive OCD therapy online? Yes. Stanley Psychology offers virtual therapy for clients across Texas, making it easier to access support from home.

It’s the baby’s nap time, and you can’t decide whether you should take a shower, eat, drink some coffee, clean, read, or take a nap.  If you find yourself in this season of life, I see you, Mama! Let's talk about mental health for moms. There are so many changes that happen when becoming a mom. There is comfort in knowing that this season is one to cherish AND one that will graduate into future seasons with their own set of challenges and delights. No matter the season, however, the biggest blessings in life often come with the biggest sacrifices.  There is the expected hard. There is the unexpected hard.  There is the expected joy. There is the unexpected joy.  And there is a lot of life that fills the in-between.  It matters. Your family matters. You matter. You are not alone.  Motherhood holds a kind of hard work that shapes us in profoundly beautiful ways, yet there are seasons when we slip into unnecessary suffering that dims that beauty.  We can start to feel alone, overwhelmed, uninformed (or even overinformed lol), and feel broken down, anxious, angry, and upset that we cannot just stop feeling upset. Mom guilt has a way of wearing us down in ways no sleepless night ever could. Every mama has days that feel this way, but if it seems like most days are consumed by these feelings, take heart that there is hope. Motherhood doesn’t have to feel like this all the time. Being emotionally and mentally present is one of the most meaningful ways we can show up for ourselves and our families. This can become very difficult to walk in when we are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, or a lack of confidence in our lives as a new mama. Having the space to grow personally can have a significant ripple effect on your kids, your spouse, and ultimately generations to come after you.  Therapy is not a “fix-all,” but it can be a tool to help in very practical and meaningful ways. One thing I am passionate about is sitting with women in their season of motherhood, and I would love to have the chance to hear your story.