About Dr. Virden
I received my Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology at Western Michigan University and enjoyed a career as a neuroscientist in the field of behavioral neuropharmacology. I soon realized, however, that in order to create any impact in the world outside of the laboratory, I would need to work with real people and help meet the challenges that they experience through their unique lives. Returning to school, I respecialized in Clinical Psychology at the Arizona School of Professional Psychology and became a licensed psychologist in the state of Arizona. I have also completed training in Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy at the Hypnosis Motivation Institute and am a member of the American Psychological Association, Society of Psychological Hypnosis, the American Association of Professional Hypnotherapists, the American Society for the Advancement of Pharmacotherapy, the Association for Contextual Behavioral Science, and the American Chronic Pain Association. My clinical work has primarily been with individuals struggling with chronic pain, substance abuse, anxiety and mood disorders, and those coming to terms with challenging life experience.
I also enjoy assisting those following alternative spiritualities. A member of the worldwide Pagan community, I am well-versed in various alternative as well as mainstream spiritualities and lifestyles.
Although I focus on practical solutions to challenges and issues, I believe that the client is best served when viewed holistically. That is, I strive to take into account the lessons that an individual has learned throughout their life in concert with their physical, emotional, and spiritual makeup. I also have an unswerving faith in human potential and have yet to find a dream that is unreachable.
Currently, I serve as an Associate Professor in the Clinical Psychology department at Midwestern University and provide psychological services at the Midwestern University clinic. I also teach as an adjunct professor at other universities. A lifelong learner, I am constantly engaged in continuing education in order to remain on the cutting edge of psychological practice.