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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), the highest level of licensure for Psychological Associates in Texas. She earned her Master of Science in Clinical Psychology, Bachelor of Science in Psychology, and Associate of Arts in Biblical Studies from Nelson University. Her clinical training includes diagnostic assessment and psychological evaluation, trauma-informed therapy, acculturation and cultural adjustment concerns, and crisis intervention. Veronica has completed extensive post-graduate training in evidence-based treatments, including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) through the International OCD Foundation’s Behavior Therapy Training Institute (BTTI), Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). She has also received specialized training in the administration of the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5) through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, as well as advanced trauma-focused training endorsed by the Texas Psychological Association. Veronica is currently a seminary student and offers faith-integrated therapy for patients who wish to incorporate their spiritual beliefs into treatment. veronica@stanleypsychology.com Do you experience persistent or excessive worry? Intense fear related to specific objects, situations, or social interactions? Do you find yourself avoiding what you fear, or experiencing sudden episodes of physical distress such as heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating, or nausea? You may also be struggling with insomnia, fatigue, or chronic muscle tension. If these experiences resonate with you, treatment can help. Veronica specializes in evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), trauma-related conditions, specific phobias, panic attacks, and insomnia. Her approach is grounded in helping patients reduce avoidance, build tolerance for distress, and regain a sense of control and freedom in their daily lives. In her personal life, Veronica is happily married and values meaningful connection with family and loved ones. She places a strong emphasis on faith and relationships as central aspects of a fulfilling life. She enjoys ongoing learning, traveling, playing board games, hiking, and spending time outdoors. As a first-generation bilingual Mexican American and daughter of immigrants, Veronica holds a deep appreciation for her cultural heritage and maintains a strong connection to Mexico. This lived experience informs her ability to understand and support individuals navigating cultural identity, family dynamics, and acculturation processes. 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 is a Licensed Psychological Associate who earned her Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from Nelson University. Since 2022, she has had the privilege of serving patients at Stanley Psychology through therapy and conducting psychological evaluations. She is dedicated to providing thoughtful, evidence-based care in a supportive and collaborative environment. She is committed to meeting clients where they are, offering practical tools and compassionate guidance to support intentional healing and sustainable growth. She enjoys working with individuals and couples, with a clinical focus on marital and family conflict resolution, affair recovery, and maternal mental health. She offers services both in-person and online, as well as in English and Spanish. mflores@stanleypsychology.com Morgan received academic training in Christian-integrated clinical care and thoughtfully integrates faith and psychology for clients who desire that approach. Morgan believes that a person’s faith journey can be meaningfully aligned with the intentional work of therapy, creating space for deep healing, breakthrough, and growth. At the same time, she deeply respects each client’s individual worldview, and faith integration is never an expectation. Have you ever found yourself wondering? Is this all life is meant to be? Will my past always cloud my future? Will I ever be able to open my heart to my spouse again? Will “mom guilt” ever ease up? Is real peace even possible?Morgan wants you to know that you are not alone and that what has been does not have to define what will be. Therapy can be a space to process, rebuild, and begin a new chapter with clarity and intentionality. Outside of her professional work, Morgan enjoys a full and active life with her husband and their three young children. They often have four or more kids in their home, as they have the honor of stepping in for families in crisis by caring for infants in foster care. In her free time, she enjoys a good cup of coffee, strategic board games, painting, and being outside. 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. Devon Nanney, B.A. Practicum Student Clinician Devon is a counseling intern currently pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and developing skills in providing compassionate, patient-centered care. She earned her B.A. in Psychology from Texas Tech University prior to beginning her graduate studies. As a clinician-in-training, she brings impressive prior professional experience in the field, including work in community mental health and as a crisis interventionist. Her counseling approach emphasizes empathy, collaboration, and the creation of a safe and supportive environment where patients feel heard, respected, and understood throughout the therapeutic process. She is passionate about helping individuals navigate personal challenges, strengthen coping skills, and work toward meaningful growth and overall wellness. Her clinical interests include anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship concerns, and life transitions. Devon strives to integrate evidence-based practices with a culturally responsive, strengths-based perspective to support clients from diverse backgrounds. As an intern, she values ongoing learning, professional development, and ethical practice while working under supervision to provide high-quality counseling services. devon@stanleypsychology.com Jessica Brewer Patient Care Coordinator Jessica Brewer, Patient Care Coordinator, is dedicated to ensuring a smooth experience for all our patients, from scheduling appointments to managing the intake process. She is happy to assist with any challenges that arise. Jessica has over a decade of experience in the social services sector, specializing in administrative roles supporting both clients and teams. Outside of work, Jessica enjoys time spent outdoors with her husband, daughter, and dogs, staying active in her community through volunteering, and exploring new coffee shops! 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. DFW MOM SOCIETY Stanley Psychology is proud to partner with DFW Mom Society, a local community dedicated to supporting mothers through connection, encouragement, and shared experiences. What began as a simple walk has grown into a welcoming space where moms can meet, build friendships, and find the support system many women need during the journey of motherhood. Through regular walks, playdates, and community gatherings, DFW Mom Society creates opportunities for mothers and their children to connect in a relaxed, low-pressure environment. Many of these events are free and designed to help moms form real friendships, share life experiences, and feel less alone during the early years of parenting. In partnership with Stanley Psychology, the organization also helps support maternal mental health by raising awareness and helping fund counseling for mothers facing financial hardship, particularly those experiencing postpartum mental health challenges. Together, we are working to ensure that no mom has to navigate motherhood or mental health struggles without a supportive community behind her. DFW Mom Society Website Join Our Group Therapy for Moms! 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 "Veronica listened openly and allowed me to feel emotions without judgment. She always supported me. She was a terrific match for me. I couldn’t have asked for a better therapist!" "I was very satisfied with my overall experience in therapy. Veronica was instrumental in my healing journey, her empathy, insight, and unwavering support made me feel truly seen and understood. She created a safe, compassionate space that allowed me to grow and heal in meaningful ways." "Morgan Flores is very professional as well as personable, creating a safe environment to bring forward tough subjects. I would recommend Morgan to everyone if I could!" "I felt like Morgan really listened and offered constructive feedback. She always had a game plan and was able to pivot based on what the group needed that week. Morgan is a wealth of knowledge and always ready with a good book to back up what she shares. She was warm and friendly and very relatable." "I am so grateful for Morgan. She has been so amazing & has helped me tremendously. She was a PERFECT match!! I felt super comfortable with her! I love how she hears you out & makes you feel comfortable & values your feelings." "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. "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 referred a few clients to Jessica and have been super pleased with how she was able to get them on the schedule and how thorough her evals are. Gold star for me!" Stacy Reynolds, LMFT-A “Veronica is amazing! Aside from her strong clinical experience, she has a compassionate and empathetic personality which makes it so easy to talk to her! She is passionate about helping young adults befriend anxiety and learn how to live life alongside it!” Audrey Oakes, LPC “I have the pleasure of working with Veronica and witnessing her professionalism, insight and the incredible client care she provides. She has a brilliant psychological mind and is dedicated, trustworthy and hardworking. I wholeheartedly endorse Veronica!” Monica Stephenson, LPC, LMFT-A "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

Jessica Simonetti, M.S.   We all most likely know someone with a smartphone. We all also most likely know someone who is always on their phone and never seems to have the ability to set it down. They seem to be addicted to being on their phone at all times. Maybe this person is you or maybe it’s someone you know, but one thing is for sure: there is increased research that suggests using a smartphone or other electronic devices can cause symptoms congruent with an addiction and can potentially cause an increase in ADHD in adults. Smartphone addiction, also known as problematic or compulsive smartphone use, refers to excessive and compulsive use of smartphones or other mobile devices, often to the detriment of one's well-being, relationships, and daily functioning. While smartphones offer numerous benefits such as communication, access to information, and entertainment, excessive use can lead to negative consequences. Some signs of addiction to a cell phone include: Preoccupation: Constantly thinking about or feeling the urge to use the phone, even in inappropriate or unsafe situations. Excessive Use: Spending an excessive amount of time on the phone, often at the expense of other activities such as work, school, or socializing. Withdrawal Symptoms: Experiencing anxiety, irritability, or distress when unable to use the phone, such as when the battery dies or there is no internet connection. Loss of Control: Difficulty controlling phone use despite efforts to cut back or limit usage. Negative Impact on Relationships: Neglecting relationships with family and friends or experiencing conflict with loved ones due to excessive phone use. Negative Impact on Health: Physical symptoms such as eyestrain, headaches, neck or back pain, and disrupted sleep patterns due to excessive screen time. Impaired Functioning: Decline in academic or work performance, decreased productivity, or neglect of responsibilities due to excessive phone use. Escapism: Using the phone as a means of escaping from stress, boredom, or negative emotions. Previous research indicates that 15% of young American adults aged 18 to 29 rely heavily on their smartphones for online connectivity, with 46% viewing their smartphones as indispensable (Smith, 2015). Toma et. al (2022) completed a study that looked at the effects of smartphone addiction on adult ADHD symptoms and well-being of the user. They found that in connection with smartphone addiction, there was a moderately adverse correlation with well-being and a significantly positive association with symptoms of adult ADHD. Similar findings have been documented by other researchers investigating the repercussions of excessive or problematic utilization of electronic devices—such as addictive conduct contributing to diminished well-being and mental health complications. This can likely be attributed to some of the key traits of ADHD being linked to addictive and problematic behaviors that can occur with smartphone addiction. Another study done by Panagiotidi and Overton (2020) had a sample comprising of 273 healthy adult volunteers who took assessments using the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS), the Mobile Phone Problem Usage Scale (MPPUS), and the Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS). A noteworthy positive correlation emerged between the ASRS and both scales. Notably, symptoms of inattention and age emerged as predictors of the propensity for smartphone addiction and problematic mobile phone usage. Their findings indicated a favorable association between traits indicative of ADHD and problematic utilization of mobile phones. As you can see, recent studies have revealed a notable overlap between smartphone addiction and ADHD symptoms in adults. Individuals with ADHD may be more susceptible to excessive smartphone use due to factors such as impulsivity, poor impulse control, and difficulty in maintaining attention. However, both smartphone addiction and ADHD can manifest with similar symptoms, and this overlap can sometimes make it challenging to distinguish between the two conditions. The important thing to note is the co-occurrence of smartphone addiction and ADHD can have detrimental effects on various aspects of adult functioning, including work, relationships, and mental well-being. So what can you do if this all sounds similar to what you are experiencing? A big first step is to first admit that you need help. There is nothing wrong with reaching this point and needing help to work past these issues you are facing.  Treatment requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both the smartphone addiction and ADHD symptoms simultaneously. This may involve things such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques to modify problematic smartphone use patterns and other interventions to manage ADHD symptoms such as medication, psychoeducation, and skills training. Your therapist will work with you to provide education about the relationship between smartphone addiction and ADHD, as well as teach you coping strategies and alternative ways of managing ADHD symptoms. Mindfulness-based interventions, such as mindfulness meditation and progressive muscle relaxation, can help individuals develop greater self-awareness, reduce stress, and improve attentional control. These techniques can be particularly beneficial for managing impulsivity and regulating emotions. It is also important to establish clear boundaries and limitations around your smartphone use, such as setting specific times for phone-free activities or implementing times where your phone is not on for any reason in certain environments. This can help reduce reliance on smartphones and promote healthier habits. Overall, recognizing the interplay between smartphone addiction and ADHD in adults is essential for providing effective intervention and support. By addressing both conditions concurrently, clinicians can help individuals suffering with symptoms in these areas improve their functioning and quality of life again.   Jessica is accepting new therapy patients. Please reach out to Stanley Psychology to inquire about services! References Panagiotidi, M., & Overton, P. (2020). Attention deficit hyperactivity symptoms predict problematic mobile phone use. Current Psychology, 41(5), 2765–2771. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-020-00785-2 Smith, A. (2015, April 1). U.S. smartphone use in 2015. Pew Research Center: Internet, Science & Tech. http://www.pewinternet.org/2015/04/01/us-smartphone-use-in-2015/ Toma, R. A., Anderson, C. A., Matichescu, M., Franţ, A., Almǎjan-Guţă, B., Cândea, A., & Bailey, K. (2022). Effects of media use, smart phone addiction, and adult ADHD symptoms on wellbeing of college students during the COVID-19 lockdown: Dispositional hope as a protective factor. Frontiers in Psychology, 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1019976

Welcome to Stanley Psychology! I'm Dr. Stanley, but I tend to be informal - most of my patients call me Amanda. I want to welcome you to our practice. I am excited to be establishing our practice in Historic Downtown Mansfield, Texas, to embrace the charm of the area and community culture. We want our practice to feel comfortable for our patients and like a second home, rather than having too much of a medical feel. I truly believe the best healing begins with being comfortable and that starts with the treatment environment. I am also happy to announce we will continue remote services for those who prefer to attend virtual sessions. Many psychology group practices focus on a single area of expertise throughout their clinicians; meaning, that the whole practice has a specific specialty. This works great for some practices. However, when expanding my practice, I wanted to embrace the diversity in specialties for clinicians, leading us to serve a wider range of patients. Individuals who practice in the mental health field tend to be generalists; meaning, they are equipped to treat a wide variety of issues, as we all are here. However, each clinician also brings specialties to the practice. For myself, I specialize in trauma and substance abuse treatment. Morgan Flores, one of our therapists, specializes with couples and families, Christian counseling, and women’s issues. Morgan Brown, one of our other therapists, specializes in treating anxiety, self-esteem concerns, and is our child expert in the practice treating children ages 4+. In addition, as clinicians trained in the science of psychology, we are all experienced in conducting testing or psychological evaluations, which is something unique to our specific field. We are also always looking to hire new clinicians to bring additional specialties to our practice. In our office, each therapist utilizes a base of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with additional modalities utilized depending on clinician and case circumstances. All treatment is supervised by me, allowing each patient to have access to both a psychologist and their treating therapist throughout their mental health journey. We are also excited to be offering group therapy for various concerns- keep an eye out on our social medias and in-office for information! We are delighted you are here- welcome in! Dr. Amanda Stanley

Morgan Brown, M.S. Let’s say you have a child that is, for all intents and purposes, a loose cannon. They are constantly having temper tantrums about who knows what. They are always yelling and crying about seemingly insignificant changes to their schedule. They have a nighttime routine that takes 20 minutes to get through because they must know if the door is locked, the windows are locked, the car is locked, the refrigerator door is closed, the lights are turned off (but not the one in the hallway), and there is a clear path from their room to your room that they could take in the dark in case of emergencies. They come across as difficult, emotionally sensitive, manipulative, and defiant. But, if you think about it for a second, could it be that this child is just feeling overly anxious? It goes without saying, but children and adults are very different. As we grow, we mature in understanding ourselves, our feelings, and how to verbalize that connection. That being said, emotions and their expressions are going to look different between a child and a mature adult or even an adolescent. For example, if an adult is feeling sad, most of the time, they are able to verbalize what has caused them to feel sad (grieving a loss, hurt feelings, disappointment, etc.). However, children may not be able to pinpoint the cause of their sadness; they just know that they feel sad! This also applies to other emotions, including anxiety. A study conducted by Suveg and Zeman (2004) on anxiety in children found that children with anxiety disorders “had difficulty managing worried, sad, and anger experiences, potentially due to their report of experiencing emotions with high intensity and having little confidence in their ability to regulate this arousal.” Not only does high anxiety bring difficulty with regulating emotions, but it also brings low self-esteem and low confidence in the ability to tolerate the anxiety. No wonder anxious children come across as difficult and defiant. There is a lot going on in their young brains and bodies! It has been established that anxiety in children is expressed in different ways, but what are those ways? Here are some common expressions of anxiety and worry in children. Anger Anger is a common expression of anxiety in children, and it makes sense when you think about it. As you most likely know, anxiety is a strong (or big) emotion. Imagine having that anxiety with no idea as to what you are feeling or how to verbalize what you are feeling. It would be frustrating, right? And add to that frustration that you also have authority figures who do not understand what you are experiencing, giving orders or punishments, further increasing that anxiety and feeling of being overwhelmed. That’s when the child becomes extremely frustrated and angry with no obvious cause for anger. Chandeliering Brene Brown (2015) defined chandeliering as being the moment when a seemingly calm person suddenly flies off the handle. This occurs when someone makes an innocent comment or people are simply going about their business when the child erupts in a temper tantrum. What caused it? Anxiety. When children feel unequipped to handle or verbalize their worry or anxiety, they may push it down, but we can only hold so much before we are sent straight through the chandelier. Restlessness Most of us have heard about the Fight or Flight Response to danger, but what happens when we feel afraid as if we are in danger, but we have nothing to fight or run from? Well, we have excess energy with no outlet. This situation can result in hyperactivity or jittery movements. Controlling Behaviors There is fear in uncertainty. When we feel as though we have no control over our situation, in order to ease the fear, we want to take control of it. For children, this may look like they are being demanding, rude, bossy, or aggressive. In reality, they are just trying to gain a sense of safety in their world by taking control of situations that make them feel uncomfortable. Clinginess I think it goes without saying, but we tend to feel the safest with those who provide our needs, which for most of us, is our parents. In children, this may look like stubborn clinginess, but really, it is the child trying to calm their anxiety by going to their safe place. Tummy Aches, Headaches, or Sore Muscles Does your child frequently complain about an upset stomach or headache when they wake up in the morning? It may seem like they are just trying to get out of going to school (and maybe they are), but for some, it is their physical body dealing with anxiety. When we feel that we are in danger, the stress hormone, Cortisol, is released in our bodies. Two places that this hormone is released are in (you guessed it!) the head and the stomach. Nighttime is scary for a lot of kids, so Cortisol might have been settling into their little bodies through the night. Additionally, the body tenses when one is anxious, and when your muscles are tensed for a long time, it creates soreness. Your child might not be lying, they may really not feel good in the mornings! Trouble Sleeping Speaking of nighttime, anxiety tends to increase at night for a lot of children. It’s dark and quiet; the perfect recipe for growing anxiety. When you’re anxious, your mind is reeling, and not wanting to slow down and go to sleep. This leaves your child tossing and turning through the night, or going to bed late/waking up early. Having been the child described at the beginning, I know what helped me process and regulate my anxious behaviors when I was a kid. Here are a few things that you can do to help your anxious child. Create a safe space for emotional expression. Allowing your child to feel the emotions they are experiencing in a safe space and talking to them about those feelings is beneficial for their confidence and emotional maturity. Educate them on different emotions and what they feel like This allows your child to understand what they are feeling in order to verbalize their needs, decreasing their need for meltdowns. If they know how (and are encouraged) to tell you what they are feeling and what they need, they will be less likely to see a tantrum as their only way to bring attention to their needs. Create a fear (or worry) box For a child who has a lot of fears, this is a great tool. Grab an empty box and have your child decorate it however they like. This will be their Fear/Worry Box. Whenever they have a fear or a worry that day, they can write it or draw it on a piece of paper and put it in the box. You can either keep the fear in the box because when it’s in the box, it can’t get back out! Or you can designate a time to go through the box together with your child and talk through all of the fears and worries they have had, providing reassurance and support. Once they have been talked about, they can be ripped up and thrown away because those worries are NOT here to stay! Practice breathing exercises and mindfulness Taking slow deep breaths: In (like you’re smelling a flower) and out (like you’re blowing a bubble) is a good way to calm down when you’re feeling anxious and it’s an exercise that can be done no matter where you’re child is. Simple yoga stretches (downward dog, cow pose, cat pose, child pose, rainbow stretch, etc.) are also a great way of refocusing the mind and slowing down anxious thoughts. Regular therapy Finally, having your child involved in therapy sessions, whether every week, every other week, or once a month would be beneficial to help your child learn healthy coping skills and emotional regulation. It also gives your child a safe space to express and process emotions that they may not feel comfortable talking about with those whom they see every day. Anxiety is a big emotion, but it is not impossible to manage. There is hope for highly anxious children and for your family. Growth is possible! Morgan is currently accepting new patients! If you are interested in services with Morgan, please contact our office and our Patient Care Coordinator will assist you. Citations: Brown, B. (2015). Rising strong. Vermilion. Suveg, C. & Zeman, J. (2004). Emotion regulation in children with anxiety disorders, Journal of Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology, 33:4, 750-759.