Leah M. Alexander, PsyaD

Psychoanalyst

Dr. Leah M. Alexander is a Psychoanalyst in Topsfield, MA with special training and skill in performing a specific type of therapy called psychoanalysis. As a Psychoanalyst, Leah M. Alexander, PsyaD performs therapy related to the unconscious mind. Psychoanalysis is a medical specialty centered on treating mental disorders by uncovering harmful repressed fears and conflicts so they can be permanently resolved. Significant diseases and conditions treated by Psychoanalysts include depression, anxiety, sexual disorders, self-destructive behavior, specific phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), self-harm behavior, grief and anger management, and mood disturbances. Medical tests, procedures and therapies provided by Psychoanalysts include mental health asssessment and diagnosing, free association, dream analysis, behavior therapy, psychodynamic therapy, play therapy, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), humanistic therapy, prescribing medication, and referral to other specialists as needed.

Psychoanalysis is a comprehensive, theoretical framework which, when applied to a treatment process, consists of an intensive verbal, therapeutic relationship between an analyst and an analysand which aims for symptom relief, emotional growth, and personal integration. The psychoanalytic treatment process includes, but is not limited to, the recognition of unconscious processes and conflicts; the significance of developmental influences; and the impact of resistances, defenses, transference and countertransference phenomena. Treatment is enhanced by an understanding developed in the analyst's training and personal analysis of unconscious manifestations, such as dreams, slips of the tongue, fantasies and day dreams. Psychoanalytic technique varies in relation to theoretical orientation.

Counselor

Dr. Leah M. Alexander is a Counselor in Topsfield, MA with special training and skill in identifying solutions to personal, social, and psychological problems. As a Counselor, Leah M. Alexander, PsyaD performs therapies that offer support and guidance to individuals or groups in order to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals. Counseling is a series of confidential, one-on-one or group meetings designed to help patients solve issues affecting their mental health and well-being. Significant diseases and conditions treated by Counselors include addiction, trauma, grief, depression, eating disorders, anger management, career choice, abuse, phobias, chronic pain, and relationship problems. Medical tests, procedures and therapies provided by Counselors include child, individual, group, couples, mental health, rehabilitation, school, and marriage and family counseling.

A provider who is trained and educated in the performance of behavior health services through interpersonal communications and analysis. Training and education at the specialty level usually requires a master's degree and clinical experience and supervision for licensure or certification.