Allison Spencer

With over a decade of experience in providing therapy for individuals and families, Allison Spencer, LCSW, has cultivated a special niche in working with teenagers and their families. Her approach offers a safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental environment where clients can process challenging situations and discover healthy solutions.

Allison's journey in mental health began with a strong educational foundation. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Purdue University in 2005, followed by a Master's degree in Social Work from Washington University in St. Louis in 2007. Her clinical training was comprehensive, including experiences in an adult inpatient psychiatric unit at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis and specialized training in school social work at Whiteside School District in Belleville, IL.

Throughout her career, Allison has gained diverse experience in various settings, including elementary and middle schools, crisis intervention, primary care, teen residential treatment, community mental health, and hospitals. This broad exposure has equipped her with a versatile skill set to address a wide range of mental health concerns. Her expertise has also been recognized in leadership roles, having held positions as an assistant director and clinical supervisor for other therapists and case managers.

Allison's passion lies in working with children, adolescents, and adults, with a particular focus on teenagers and their families. She understands that teenagers often seek treatment due to feelings of depression and anxiety, which can stem from various factors such as low self-esteem, thinking errors, relationship problems, academic pressure, trauma, identity struggles, or major life changes. Recognizing that these challenges can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, Allison works diligently to help her clients process their experiences and develop alternative, healthy solutions.

In her therapeutic approach, Allison draws from several evidence-based methodologies. She utilizes family systems theory, recognizing the importance of familial relationships in an individual's well-being. Her strength-based approach focuses on identifying and building upon clients' existing capabilities. Additionally, she employs cognitive behavioral therapy to address thought patterns and behaviors, and dialectical behavioral therapy to help clients manage emotions and improve interpersonal relationships.

Allison's areas of specialty encompass a wide range of issues that are particularly relevant to teenagers and families. These include anxiety, depression, parent-child relationships, self-harm, crisis intervention, self-esteem building, suicidal ideation, parenting support, peer relationships, healthy dating relationships, trauma processing, grief and loss, identity issues, coping skills development, and assistance with school-related matters such as IEPs and 504 plans.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Mesa, Arizona, Allison Spencer brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and compassion to her practice. Her dedication to creating a supportive therapeutic environment, combined with her specialized focus on adolescents and families, makes her a valuable resource for those navigating the complex challenges of teenage years and family dynamics.