Welcome! I’m Dr. Constance West, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience. I specialize in health psychology, race-based trauma, disaster mental health, and juvenile forensics. I work with women who are navigating both everyday stress and more complex life challenges, whether that’s managing a chronic health condition, balancing caregiving or parenting, dealing with workplace stress, or healing from trauma.

My Therapeutic Approach: Culture-Centered and Trauma-Informed
I believe that the way we talk to ourselves shapes how we feel and how we move through the world. Together, we’ll explore your thoughts and begin to shift the patterns that may be contributing to stress, anxiety, or emotional pain.
At the same time, I don’t believe therapy should happen in a vacuum. Your cultural, racial, and ethnic background matters, and they deserve to be honored in the work we do. I also take a trauma-informed approach, recognizing how past experiences can show up in your present life.
My goal is to support you in developing healthier thought patterns, while also holding space for your lived experiences and identity.

Development of a “Recipe for a Happy Life”
In our work together, we’ll create what I like to call your personal “recipe for a happy life.” This is a practical, holistic plan that helps you move toward greater fulfillment.
We’ll look at what truly matters to you: emotionally, physically, spiritually, and socially, and identify realistic ways to bring more of those things into your everyday life. This isn’t about perfection; it’s about building a life that feels meaningful and aligned with who you are.

Therapeutic Relationship Based on Mutual Strength & Respect
Therapy is a partnership. Someone once described therapy as “iron sharpening iron,” and I believe that captures it well.
I am deeply committed to creating a space where you feel respected, supported, and empowered. Your voice, your choices, and your autonomy matter here. At the same time, I show up fully in the process, offering guidance, insight, and care.
Meaningful therapeutic relationships lead to growth on both sides, and I value the trust you place in me.

Professional Experience
I bring over 20 years of experience as a clinician, researcher, and professor. I’ve worked in a variety of settings, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), VA Medical Centers, juvenile courts, private practice, psychiatric facilities, and academic institutions. This breadth of experience allows me to support clients with a wide range of concerns and life experiences.

Education
Bachelor of Arts in Human Biology, Stanford University
Master of Science in Health Clinical Psychology, University of Miami
Doctor of Philosophy in Health Clinical Psychology, University of Miami
Post-Doctoral Fellowship, Emory University School of Medicine

Just for Fun
Outside of my professional work, I enjoy traveling, attending concerts, and spending time with family and friends. I’ve also learned to appreciate the simple things like listening to birds chirp, hearing children laugh, gardening, or enjoying a meaningful conversation over a warm cup of herbal tea!