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Mental Health for Moms Compassionate Care Rooted in Community and Connection Let's Chat Every Mom Deserves Support No mother should have to choose between mental health and affordability. That’s why we’re proud to offer therapy sessions for just $10 each, making professional care accessible for moms who need it most. Whether they’re facing postpartum depression, anxiety, or simply need a safe space to be heard, this initiative ensures that financial barriers don’t stand in the way of healing. Get Involved Mansfield Mom Walk Stanley Psychology is proud to partner with Mansfield Mom Walk, a community dedicated to supporting mothers through connection, encouragement, and shared experiences. What began as simple walks for local moms has grown into a welcoming community where women can build friendships, share their stories, and support one another during the journey of motherhood. Through this partnership, Stanley Psychology helps raise awareness for maternal mental health and works to ensure that moms who need professional support can access affordable counseling. Learn More About Mansfield Mom Walk Supporting Maternal Mental Health Motherhood is beautiful—but it can also be overwhelming. Many women experience postpartum depression, anxiety, isolation, or emotional burnout during the early years of parenting. Unfortunately, financial barriers often prevent moms from seeking the professional support they need. Through our partnership with Mansfield Mom Walk, Stanley Psychology is committed to making mental health care more accessible for mothers in our community. Moms Are Raving About the Stanley Psychology Moms Group Our Moms Group, led by Morgan at Stanley Psychology, creates a safe and supportive space for mothers to talk openly, share experiences, and receive practical encouragement. The first round of the group received incredible feedback from participants. MOMS GROUP PARTICIPANTS TESTIMONIALS “I looked forward to our group sessions every week and have even made friends through it. Morgan created a welcoming and safe environment where moms felt comfortable sharing difficult topics." “Morgan is very professional as well as personable, creating a safe environment to bring forward tough subjects. Participants consistently shared that the group helped them feel heard and supported." “From the first session I felt like it was a safe place.” Morgan helped guide conversations in a way that made group therapy feel warm, supportive, and relatable. “I would recommend Morgan to everyone if I could! Many moms shared that they have already recommended Stanley Psychology and the Moms Group to friends." “Group therapy was such a unique experience and I’m so grateful. Participants described the group as an encouraging space during an important season of motherhood. " Interested in Joining the Next Moms Group? If you are a mom looking for support, connection, and a safe space to talk through life’s challenges, we would love to welcome you to a future Moms Group at Stanley Psychology. Spots are limited to ensure every participant feels heard and supported. Learn More

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. 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 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. Frequently Asked Questions What is a psychologist? Psychologist, Psychiatrist, Psychotherapist, Psychiatric Nurse, Licensed Psychiatric Associate…there are a lot of similar terms in our field! In a nutshell, a psychologist has achieved a doctoral degree (Ph.D., Psy.D., or Ed.D.) studying the science of human behavior. A psychologist is required to earn a doctorate, and as such have one of the highest levels of education in mental health care. They often surpass ten years of education, in addition to post-doctoral work under supervision to meet rigorous licensing requirements. What is a psychological evaluation? Psychological evaluation is a large part of a psychologist’s training. Licensed Psychological Associates (LPAs) also uniquely receive psychological testing training, which is not a part of most masters-level mental health training programs and licenses. Simply stated, a psychological evaluation involves clinical interviewing, review of collateral data, and various forms of psychological testing which is determined by the referral reason. Anyone who begins the psychological evaluation process with Dr. Stanley hears the same statement: that she dislikes the term “psychological testing” as it is innately anxiety provoking. To simplify the process: clinical interviewing involves asking questions to a client and others if applicable (e.g., parents, medical providers, etc.) regarding psychosocial history and current concerns/impairment. A testing plan is created by Dr. Stanley to assess the clinical concern. This sometimes includes responding to true/false questions, rating scales, and various interactive tasks. Any appropriate collateral data is reviewed, such as medical and therapy records. These pieces of information and reviewed and interpreted, and a clinical evaluation report is written. These reports typically range from 10-20 pages, depending on the reason for referral. This information is typically used to aid in diagnosis and planning treatment or other services. Many evaluations are able to be completed completely virtually, although some require portions if in-person testing. These specifications will be communicated to you when booking. How do I know if I need therapy? As a mental health clinic, we are inherently biased...but we believe just about anybody can benefit from therapy! Whether you are going through a difficult life stressor, have ongoing concerns, or want to develop insight into yourself, therapy can be of great assistance. We all struggle at times, and therapy can help you navigate a variety of life issues. How long does it take to feel better with therapy? This is a difficult question to answer. In our field, sometimes people begin experiencing symptoms relief simply by contacting a provider and making an appointment; that is, knowing help is coming has an impact itself. Other patients describe relief after the first session, once they get an initial read on if the provider is a good fit for them. As far as improvement once treatment begins, this largely depends on symptom severity and other factors of a patient’s clinical presentation. As a general estimate, most patients will report some improvement within ten sessions, and many significantly earlier. However, therapy can be an ongoing process for months or even years, depending on the patient’s needs and wants, as progress continues. What do I do in an emergency? Should a mental health emergency occur, immediate intervention is required. Not only is crisis management a piece of a patient's treatment when indicated, but they should also be aware of options during potential mental health emergencies: - If suicidal, call 911 or report to the emergency room immediately - 988 is the national suicide and crisis lifeline, available 24/7 During any suicide/crisis intervention, the individual should be continuously observed and not be left alone until professionally assessed and recommendations provided. Importantly, Stanley Psychology is an outpatient clinic and does not utilize on-call providers. As such, although we would like to be notified when our patients experience a crisis, this notification should only occur after emergent help is sought and the patient is stabilized. I’m a masters or doctoral psychology student and am interested in a practicum placement with Stanley Psychology. How should I proceed? Thank you for your interest! Dr. Stanley supervises all practicum students directly; please call the office or email her directly to initiate the interview process (dr.stanley@stanleypsychology.com). If you want to talk to current practicum students to inquire about their experiences, feel free to contact them- email addresses can be found by their profile in the “About” section. Please note Dr. Stanley does not accept psychiatric nurse practitioner students for practicum due to requirements and office limitations. Why should I choose Dr. Stanley and Stanley Psychology? Patients frequently describe Dr. Stanley as warm, compassionate, open-minded, and appropriately direct. She has a strong track record of building lasting therapeutic relationships—whether with individuals new to therapy or those who have previously struggled to find the right fit. Dr. Stanley is also committed to training her team to reflect the same supportive and effective approach. To hear directly from patients, we invite you to visit the testimonials section of our website. Click here to learn more about Dr. Stanley.(https://www.stanleypsychology.com/our-team-1) Which therapist will I see? How can I tell if they're a good match for me? When you call, our Patient Care Coordinator will discuss several factors with you, including availability and specialties of our clinicians, to help you find a great fit. If you have a particular clinician in mind, you are able to request them. Why should I see a practicum student at Stanley Psychology for treatment or evaluation? Even before Dr. Stanley began employing her own practicum clinicians at Stanley Psychology, she often recommended the services of student clinicians associated with local universities. This recommendation is primarily influenced by two factors: Most importantly, because these student clinicians are under heavy supervision, this is oftentimes some of the best treatment and evaluation one can find. Not only are patients exposed to their treating clinician, who is heavily emerged in the education of psychology at the time of treatment, but a licensed supervisor is closely overseeing their work. Secondly, because these individuals are pre-license, fees are often far more affordable than licensed providers, opening access to individuals who may have financial difficulty seeking services. I've had issues with "fit" with past providers. How do I know Stanley Psychology clinicians will be any different? Not to sound pessimistic, but you don’t! Although we pride ourselves in patient retention, our psychological research consistently points to rapport as being the number one predictor of successful outcome in therapy. We realize that our personalities cannot possibly be a perfect fit for everyone! If there are any concerns with fit, we encourage patients to discuss apprehensions with their clinician- if we are not the ones to help you, we absolutely still want you to get help, and we may know someone in our network to refer you to. Do you prescribe medication? Although psychologists have a foundational understanding of psychopharmacology as part of training, psychologists are not able to prescribe medication in Texas. For medication, we typically refer to psychiatrists, who hold a medical doctorate (MD or DO) and prescribe psychotropic medications. Psychiatric nurse practitioners (NPs)are also medical providers trained specifically in psychotropic medication. Additionally, some primary care providers will also prescribe psychotropic medication, depending on complexity of the patient and training with psychotropics. Does the office offer free phone consultations before making an appointment? Although many mental health offices utilize this practice, we have found that it is hard to gain significant benefit or get a read on therapeutic fit from a 10-15 minute phone call. As a result, the ultimate decision of having a phone consultation is up to the individual clinician. Although Dr. Stanley does not provide these calls, many of the staff at Stanley Psychology do. Regardless of if you have a consult call or not, our Patient Care Coordinator will ask for referral information and be able to answer questions about our practice. At the first appointment with your clinician, you will have the opportunity to ask questions and if you decide your clinician is not a good fit, we can provide you with alternatives, including referring to local providers who may be a better fit for you. It is important to remember that by making an appointment, you are signing up just for that- one appointment! There is no additional commitment if you do not want to continue. I am looking for an evaluation - what do I need to know? We conduct a wide variety of evaluations, including for general mental health, substance abuse, pre-surgery bariatric, veteran's benefits, behavioral concerns, learning disabilities, adult and childhood ADHD, and various forensic evaluations for individuals involved with the legal system. Dr. Stanley is an approved evaluator for several monitoring groups and boards, including the Texas Peer Assistance Program for Nurses (TPAPN), the Texas Board of Nursing (TBON), and the Texas Physician Health Program (TxPHP). Our Patient Care Coordinator can discuss various factors for evaluations and answer questions you may have, including if your evaluation can be conducted remotely, insurance benefits, scheduling factors, clinician options, and report rush availability. What is therapy with Stanley Psychology like? Whether in person or remote, therapy sessions typically last between 50-55 minutes. Your provider will discuss what to expect with timing at your first session. What should I expect at my first therapy appointment? During your intake session with your provider, you will first be thoroughly informed of limits to confidentiality. Then, an open discussion on what brings you in, followed by gathering information about your psychosocial history, will occur. This process can sometimes take up to three sessions, in order to be thorough and best build your treatment plan. Most importantly, this is an interactive process between clinician and patient. Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential? Your confidentiality is vital in therapy- you need to feel safe talking with us! There are a few limitations of confidentiality, including for child, elderly, or disabled person abuse, immediate threat to life, and court orders. These limits will be thoroughly discussed at your first session in order to have a solid understanding of any confidentiality issues. Where will my sessions take place? If your session is in-office, we are proud to be located in historic downtown Mansfield, Texas, about one block off of Main Street. The address is 108 N 1st Ave, Mansfield TX 76063. Look for the charming blue house with red doors! The area is walkable with residential and commercial businesses nearby. Feel free to shop or eat while downtown! We also offer remote sessions, and you will be provided a link to access your session prior to your appointment. Do I need to see a provider with a doctorate? Many individuals seeking treatment are focused on finding a doctor, and thus limit their provider search to psychologists. But is this necessary? This answer may sound shocking coming from our office considering that Dr. Stanley is a psychologist, but the answer is a resounding no! There are a lot of masters-level providers who are fully equipped, trained, and licensed to provide psychotherapy. Our Licensed Psychological Associates, or LPAs, are a vital part of our practice and offer both therapy and evaluation services. Click here to learn more about LPAs.(https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:e0aa0327-d021-4043-81b9-6b9c3c5c7b1c) MORE QUESTIONS? CONTACT US Does Dr. Amanda Stanley Use EMDR in Treatment? Hot Topic: Have you heard that EMDR works because of the eye movements? Let's break down Dr. Stanley's perspective behind the trend—and what actually helps people heal from trauma. More About EMDR

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.