Alisa Karmel, PsyD, MSnC, LPC
Psychologist Resident & Licensed Professional Counselor
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I am a psychologist resident in the state of Oregon, I work under the supervision of Dawn Whitman, PsyD. I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from the University of Oregon, a Master of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology from Pacific University, a Master of Science degree in Nutrition from National University of Natural Medicine, and a Doctor of Psychology degree in Clinical Psychology from Pacific University. I have been fascinated with the psychology of food and mood throughout my career.
My doctoral training was focused on health psychology. I worked within primary care clinics as a behavioral health consultant and at weight loss surgery centers where I completed psychological evaluations and provided ongoing support. Also, I received training in neuropsychological assessment, in both brief and comprehensive formats.
I recently co-wrote a book with my brother called T-Shirt Swim Club. We wrote this book to provide support for anyone who has ever struggled with weight issues.
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Anxiety, Body image and body dissatisfaction, Complex medical concerns, Depression, Eating disorders or disordered eating related to obesity, Fat liberation, Insomnia & Sleep Apnea, Parenting, Trauma/Stress, Weight stigma.
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Individual Therapy, Family Therapy, and ADHD Evaluations.
Hello! My name is Dr. Alisa Karmel (she/her), and I am a licensed professional counselor who is completing my residency to become a licensed psychologist. I am also a mother, an author, and a fat person. I plan to change our weight-centric and fat-phobic world by supporting you in being your authentic self, guiding you to improve the way you view and treat yourself, and of course, by educating medical providers every chance I get. Most of my patients have dealt with body shaming, feelings of inadequacy, endless dieting, weight stigma, hopelessness, and discrimination because of their size. That's why I'm here. I am eager to fiercely advocate for you
Are you a good clinical fit?
My passion is in working with those experiencing fatness and obesity; body dissatisfaction; and eating disorders or disordered eating related to obesity, such as emotional eating, overeating, and binge eating; as well as supporting individuals who have dealt with weight stigma in both personal and medical settings.
If you are currently or have ever identified as high BMI, fat, overweight, or obese.
If you are using any weight loss medications or are pursuing/recently pursued weight loss surgery.
If you experience low self worth, high anxiety, or frequent depressed thoughts.
If you have been traumatized or harmed within the medical system or a personal setting.
If you are having trouble with sleep and have been diagnosed with insomnia.
My Approach
With combined interests in nutrition and mental health, I take a behavioral approach to shift the way my patients think, act, eat, and value themselves. I use motivational interviewing with patient centered language to encourage behavioral change that is rooted in values-based decision making. I may use bibliotherapy, cognitive approaches and mindfulness-based interventions. My goal is to promote confidence and healthy living through sustainable behavioral change. Let’s get this started!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Submit a prospective patient form and provide a brief description of why you are seeking these services. Our admin team will reach out to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation with Dr. Karmel to better understand your presenting concerns and therapeutic needs, and to determine if you and Dr. Karmel are a good match for therapy.
If we are a good match, you will be schedule for an intake evaluation with Dr. Karmel (55-minutes). You will be sent our new patient paperwork.
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Regular sessions are 45-55 minutes, typically weekly or every other week, providing psychoeducation and specific suggestions and techniques in addition to therapeutic support to address your concerns.
