My PracticeAbout Me
ABOUT MEDr. David Bernstein
Dr. Bernstein is a clinical and forensic psychologist with over 20 years of experience assisting individuals, couples, and families across a spectrum of needs. His work spans from enhancing lives through insight-focused psychotherapy to addressing severe mental health issues like bipolar and major depressive disorders. He completed his doctoral internship at Yale University School of Medicine and his postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard Medical School.
In 2016, he served as the keynote speaker for the American Academy of Pediatrics’ “Critical Issues in School Health” and for the New Jersey Department of Education’s Office of School Preparedness and Emergency Planning. Following the Newtown school shooting in 2013, Dr. Bernstein provided expertise on school safety and mental health to the Connecticut State Senate’s Subcommittee on School Safety.
He has delivered training lectures at prestigious institutions, including Columbia and Yale Universities, and has made significant contributions to media outlets such as Dateline NBC, Good Morning America, and NPR’s This American Life.
Dr. Bernstein is the recipient of the Connecticut Psychological Association’s President’s Award. His commitment to improving mental health awareness and treatment is evident through his impactful engagements and ongoing dedication to the field.
At the heart of my approach to therapy lies a commitment to solution-focused and goal-directed interventions. Clients often enter therapy with a specific issue in mind—a presenting symptom that, much like the tip of an iceberg, hints at a deeper, more complex underlying problem. It is akin to treating a persistent headache only to discover it’s a symptom of a more serious condition, such as a brain injury. This analogy underscores the essence of my treatment philosophy: identifying and addressing the root cause of distress, not just the surface symptoms.
Understanding that the true source of pain may be deeply buried under layers of protective mechanisms, my aim is to navigate this discovery process in the gentlest yet most efficient manner possible. I believe in creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel empowered to explore their vulnerabilities. By focusing on solutions and setting clear, achievable goals, we work together to unearth the underlying issues fueling the presenting problems.
The journey towards healing and growth is not about a quick fix but involves a thoughtful exploration of the self, relationships, and behavioral patterns. With a compassionate and strategic approach, we aim to equip you with the insights and tools necessary to not only confront the source of your pain but also to foster resilience, enhance well-being, and achieve lasting change.
This philosophy is built on the foundation of trust, respect, and collaboration between therapist and client. It is through this partnership that we can embark on a transformative journey towards uncovering the root causes of your challenges and moving towards a more fulfilling and balanced life.
