Dr. Danielle McGraw, Ph.D.
Psychologist in Phoenix, AZHelping you achieve your goals and flourish
My Approach
I am a trauma-informed psychologist in Phoenix, AZ with a strengths-based approach that is grounded in the fundamentals of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This means that I believe that everyone in life experiences situations that affect their beliefs, thoughts, emotions, and values. Often, these experiences may have a negative impact. I strive to create a safe, caring, and compassionate environment to help you feel comfortable strengthening the connection and understanding to yourself and your inner workings. I use a variety of scientifically support treatments, including CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help you gain the skills you need to meet your goals. One of my core values in life is human connection. To quote my professional idol, Brene Brown, “connection is why we are here.” A common theme throughout any treatment is that I will help you connect with yourself, which will help you connect with others and live a meaningful life.
My Story
I decided to become a clinical psychologist at 15 years old. I realized it was my purpose in life to help others live their best lives.
My Education: I began my undergraduate degree at the local college (Austin Peay State University) in Clarksville, TN. I completed my B.A. in Psychology at George Mason University in Fairfax, VA. After graduating, I moved to the beaches of San Diego to pursue my Ph.D. at Alliant International University/ California School of Professional Psychology. I received my M.A. and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with a focus on General Mental Health and Trauma Psychology.
My Experience: Prior to starting graduate school, I worked at Camp Pendleton as a research coordinator for a PTSD treatment study. During graduate school, I spent one year working in the field of forensic psychology, assisting people in their transition from federal prison back into life. I also spent 2 years working in an inpatient mental health facility, where I worked with both the general population as well as an active duty military unit. I provided treatment to individuals with various mental illnesses, helping them gain and master skills to live a meaningful life. I completed my internship at a community mental health facility in Phoenix, AZ, helping people achieve their goals and create meaningful change in their lives. Lastly, I completed a post-doctoral fellowship at Phoenix VA Medical center, providing evidence-based treatment to veterans with a variety of mental health diagnoses.
My Values & Beliefs
It is YOUR treatment
You are the expert of you! As such, I help you work towards your personal goals for your life. I understand mental health and can teach you the tools you need to achieve your goals, using methods supported by research.
There are many "right" ways to live life
I believe that there is no one path to success and happiness. Your life will be most enjoyable and meaningful to you, if it is lived in line with you beliefs, culture, and values, not just doing what society, family, or anyone else thinks you should do.
Strengths-based treatment
Too often, therapy focuses on what is wrong with you. I like to capitalize on your strengths and help you be the best you
Time-limited treatment
I view therapy as a method to gain skills to navigate difficult life situations. Most people do not need life-long treatment. I believe that therapy can be effective even after just a few sessions. This does not mean you can’t continue in therapy for a longer term if there are various goals you are working towards.
Interaction of science and practice
I believe it is most effective to use treatments that are evidence-based (scientifically validated techniques) rather than simply my opinion.