Psychologists, Counselors, and Mental Health Therapists
Located in Lemont, PA (State College, PA)
Starting psychotherapy is hard enough without feeling alone while trying to navigate finding a therapist. Learn the steps of how to find a therapist who is right for you. Established in 2016, our health-minded psychotherapy practice integrates mindfulness and draws from empirical evidence for what works. We offer in-person and telehealth therapy appointments.
We look forward to having you with us.
Alissa S. Yamasaki, Ph.D.
Licensed Psychologist, Owner
Our Therapists
Sage Stevens, L.S.W.
Licensed Social Worker
Elana Szczesny, Ph.D.
Licensed Psychologist
Alissa S. Yamasaki, Ph.D.
Licensed Psychologist
What is Psychotherapy at Ayama?
For whom? We work with college students and adults (age 18-108+) who are seeking treatment for life stress, anxiety, and health (sleep, weight/body image).
Does it work and what’s involved? Yes, therapy works, but it is definitely “work.” You will be asked to examine your experiences, beliefs, feelings, and thoughts. The therapist’s job is to allow you to speak freely and to be attentive, while giving you trustworthy, professional guidance about how to make the changes you seek.
You can expect to have a clear feel of what therapy will be like from the first meeting. Our therapists are experienced and well-grounded, so they are ready to start off as quickly (or gently) as you want, including providing you with a preliminary analysis of the problems and a description of the work ahead of you, by the end of the first meeting.
Our therapists are both expert listeners and active collaborators. You are likely to walk away with new skills and understanding necessary to alleviate symptoms, and your job will be to apply what you have learned to your daily life. As wanted, therapy can incorporate accountability for desired health changes, like regular exercise and food-related changes.
How much of a commitment is therapy? Therapy is a significant commitment of time and energy. It is also a financial commitment. Weekly sessions are a typical starting point if you have never done therapy previously.
Not quite ready? No problem. We only want to meet with you when you feel ready. Subscribe to our email list to stay in touch when you are ready to move forward (see footer) or click to get to know our clinicians a little better.