Dr. Elizabeth Altman holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute. In addition to her formal training, she has pursued extended study in Buddhist psychology and social justice frameworks, integrating these perspectives into her clinical work. She completed an Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy certification through The Embody Lab and trained directly with Dr. Bessel van der Kolk in trauma-informed somatic therapies. Liz has worked with children, adolescents, and adults across a wide range of clinical settings, including schools, community mental health, and private practice.
Her therapeutic approach integrates psychodynamic and Jungian psychology with somatic, relational, and contemplative modalities. She is particularly attuned to the healing of early attachment wounds and complex trauma, and approaches therapy as a collaborative, affirming process that honors the intelligence of the body and psyche.
Specialization
Dr. Altman specializes in working with:
- trauma and complex PTSD
- attachment and developmental trauma
- childhood sexual and physical abuse
- survivors of sexual assault
- grief and life transitions
- chronic illness and somatic symptoms
- asylum seekers and displaced individuals
- spiritual and existential exploration
- children, adolescents, adults, and families
- people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals
- individuals in nontraditional relationships, including kink and BDSM communities
She has extensive experience supporting clients through identity development, emotional regulation, and recovery from systemic and interpersonal harm.
Strategies
Dr. Altman draws from a wide range of clinical approaches, including:
- Psychodynamic and Jungian therapy
- Internal Family Systems (IFS)
- Somatic and trauma-informed interventions
- Mindfulness and Buddhist psychology
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Her work often incorporates body awareness, dreamwork, and symbolic inquiry to support deep transformation, resilience, and reconnection to self.
