Dr. Jody Helmus attended college at both Emory University and Simmons University, where she earned her Bachelors Degree in Psychology. After working as a chemical dependency counselor at a private psychiatric hospital in Boston, she subsequently moved to San Diego to attend The California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant University, where she earned her M.A. and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology in 1994. After 6 years of serving as the psychologist for the San Diego County Conditional Release Program, Dr. Helmus decided to build her own outpatient private practice. Since 2004 she has focused on treating adults, couples and families. She has continued providing treatment for those suffering from addiction and co-occurring mental health issues in both residential and outpatient settings. Dr. Helmus also works with individuals and couples considering, or in the midst of divorce, assisting them with improving communication, effective coparenting and complex blended family issues. Dr. Helmus also has spent many years helping clients navigate through other challenging phase of life transitions, including postpartum and menopausal issues, "empty-nest syndrome" and grief/bereavement. Clinically, Dr. Helmus' approach incorporates evidence-based treatment modalities, including CBT, DBT, ACT and Mindfulness/Meditation practices. She is also trained in EMDR therapy, which is effective in treating both acute trauma symptoms as well as chronic blocking beliefs that can become major obstacles to individuals achieving their goals. Dr. Helmus strives to help her clients achieve and maintain well-balanced, healthful lives. While her therapeutic approach is well-grounded in empirical research, Dr, Helmus weaves humor and creativity into her best practices. Her interpersonal style is compassionate and respectful, yet straightforward and realistic. She tailors her clinical interventions to meet each client's needs and goals, so that they may become their best selves.
| Degree | Major | School | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ph.D. | Clinical Psychology | CSPP- San Diego at Alliant University | 1994 |
