Maxine H. Alchek Ph.D.

The process of discovering one’s authentic self can be exhilarating and the rewards are exponential. My approach focuses on strengths, augmenting the health that is already present. Learning how to see one’s self (and the world) in this way is a courageous and creative process. By recognizing patterns in relating — to one’s self and others— there’s a clearer sense of what’s precious to you, what gets in the way, and how you can realistically be your best self. While I have experience with the whole range of human problems, I work well with folks who enjoy being playful and creative. I think laughing together in therapy is essential, for many reasons. I have been practicing psychotherapy since 1987. My formal training is in intensive individual and family therapy specializing in trauma and adolescence. From 1994-2000 I ran the trauma service and psychology training on the adolescent unit at McLean Hospital, teaching and training Harvard residents and post-docs as a faculty member of the Harvard Medical School. I also helped create a DBT program for the adolescent residential unit. I received my psychoanalytic training at Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute, my PhD in clinical psychology at the University of Michigan, and my BA in anthropology at Haverford/Bryn Mawr Colleges. I have also been a professional dancer and artist— which is probably why I favor creativity as the best coping strategy. You should probably know my dog is my co-pilot. Lucky, my goldendoodle, works with me and really loves his job, but if you'd rather we work alone that's fine, too. In addition to individual, couples, and family therapy, I also provide clinical supervision and consultation for mid-career clinicians. I am also offering a Climate Feeling and Action Workshop on December 9th, 2023 over zoom. https://www.merlyngrants.org/index.cfm/film-festival/post-festival-workshop1/ This workshop is part of the Climate Future Film Festival sponsored by Merlyn Climate Grants. https://www.merlyngrants.org NOTE: My practice is currently full but I do have an active waiting list.