I am a Clinical Psychologist licensed in both Illinois and Texas. Originally from Chicago, IL, I earned my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2010. I spent the following 10 years in San Antonio, TX maintaining a private practice while working as the Supervisor of the Mental Health, Assessment, & Triage Unit for the Juvenile Probation Department, and as the Training Director for the doctoral internship program. In my role as Training Director, I worked closely with doctoral interns during the capstone of their doctoral degree as they transitioned from students into “whole people” (as one former resident put it). I really enjoyed working with interns during this critical stage of their professional development and these types of transitional times are what I focus on in private practice as well.
In private practice, I provide therapy for adolescents, adults, and couples, as well as conduct psychological evaluations. Assessments are primarily completed to assist physicians in differentiating between diagnoses and providing appropriate treatment recommendations, but also to begin the process of determining whether a child or adolescent has ADHD, learning issues, or mood disorders impacting their functioning. My clinical experiences encompass a wide variety of settings, including a Head Start program, community mental health centers, private group practice, a residential facility, psychiatric hospital, and as a diagnostician working with elementary and high school students. I believe that every person would benefit from the opportunity to create a life worth living and understanding the “shoulds” they face in their lives.
In my free time, I enjoy exploring hiking trails, cozying up with a good book, working out, and spending time with my kids, dogs, and husband. I consider myself lucky to be able to call both Chicago and San Antonio “home.”
What others have to say:
“I had the privilege of being supervised/mentored by Dr. Collins during my psychology residency. She is both warm and direct, a combination that I feel steers you kindly towards growth while also not letting you feel as if you are walking the path alone.” ~ Lacy K.
“Dr. Collins is a compassionate and conscientious psychologist who clearly enjoys her work and demonstrates a genuine commitment to her clients. These qualities are evident in her work with clients, as well as in her role as a supervisor to psychologists-in-training.” ~ Alex R.
“Dr. Collins was the clinical director of my APA accredited doctoral internship. I was so lucky to get to have her as a supervisor, mentor, and now colleague. I have internalized many aspects of her style and her personhood into my professional identity and I am forever grateful to have gotten to learn under her. She is warm, organized, holistic, and bright!” ~ Megan L.
“Dr. Collins has been my mentor since 2015 when she supervised me for an advanced practicum experience then internship. Her approach was person-centered and developmental; she always made me feel validated and understood. She continues to be a mentor I can consult with regarding my professional development.” ~ Laura T.
“I have known Dr. Collins since 2009. She possesses a wonderful balance of humanity and professionalism and is highly skilled in both therapy and psychological testing. Her compassion helps clients feel at ease and her skills foster understanding, growth, and change.” ~ Jeannie Von Stultz, PhD, Licensed Psychologist.
