Denise Hutter, Ph.D.
Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Denise Hutter, Ph.D., a 30-year veteran of traditional and innovative therapeutic treatment settings, provides psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. With a strong background and training in clinical psychology, and extensive training in alternative therapeutic methods, Dr. Hutter tailors her treatment to the strengths and goals of the client. She is certified in EMDR, an effective treatment for trauma, and also uses creative expression, hypnosis, art, and mind-body techniques to assist and amplify the client's healing process. Prior to her work in private practice, Dr. Hutter worked in in-patient psychiatric facilities, co-managed a wilderness-based youth therapy program, and staffed outpatient public and private clinics over the past 30 years. Her philosophy of treatment is that each individual has the ability to heal, and the goal of the therapist is to activate the healing process within clients so they can reach their full potential. She works with Bodhi, her dedicated Australian Shepherd therapy dog, and when not in the office they may often be seen running in the Ashland watershed.

Services:

• Clinical Psychology
• Transpersonal Psychology
• Performance Enhancement
• Ecopsychology

Meet Bodhi

Bodhi is an alert, intelligent and loving Australian Shepard that has been working in the practice for the past three years. He works well with both children and adults and is a great presence in the office, teaching us all not to take ourselves too seriously.

A life long animal lover, Dr. Hutter first saw the therapeutic value of animals in a clinical setting in 1997 while working at Lucielle Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford. Research shows that pet assisted therapy provides an opportunity for people in difficult circumstances, in physical and emotional crisis, to benefit from the healing presence of animals. Interactions with animals help put people back in touch with the caring, loving parts of themselves. Clients who spend much of their time feeling anxious and asocial tend to relax and interact in the presence of animals. They are much more likely to cooperate with others, ask relevant questions and tell stories about their own experiences with animals and their lives in general… all factors that relieve loneliness and enhance the healing process.

Bodhi is an important member of the clinical staff. Dr. Hutter looks forward to introducing him to you!