About
Sasha Avanesov
My approach is holistic, dynamic, and engaging. I blend mindfulness, practical strategies, and spiritual and existential insights within an evidence-based framework.
I will offer deep compassion, genuine care, and nonjudgmental support rooted in an explorative and nonpathologizing process of clarification of whatever concerns you might be facing.
Together, we will find a pathway to healing.
We may clarify possible hidden patterns at play and discover solutions for any obstacles or problems you might be facing. We may process any difficulties that arise. We may learn and practice useful skills. And throughout this process, I will be firmly in your corner, empowering you to claim your own place in your life and in the world at large.
Professional Statement
If you are here, it probably means you are needing some help, which can be a hard thing to admit, and even a harder thing to ask for. Maybe you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, or stress. Maybe you are coping with trauma, addictions, relationship issues, grief, or just any other “life stuff”. Maybe you are doing ok and just looking to grow and understand yourself on a deeper level. Maybe you are seeking answers to spiritual and existential questions. Whatever is on your heart and mind, I will be firmly in your corner. Together, we will explore, clarify, and work to resolve issues at the root of your concerns, clearing a path to a happy life.
Whatever you might be experiencing right now, my heart goes out to you. Life can really suck. At times, seemingly impossible to “figure out”. Through my own life experiences and clinical work, I have experienced and witnessed profound suffering. Through all of that, I’ve learned there is a way. Reach out. I’d love to hear from you and help you find that way.
For almost 20 years, I have worked in residential and outpatient settings, providing direct care and supervising. Although I have specialized in treating substance use disorders, I also have significant experience helping patients experiencing anxiety, depression/mood issues, trauma, ADHD, and other mental health and spiritual challenges, all of which usually co-occur with, if not ultimately precede addictions.
Qualifications
Education
Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology
2004-2018
Sofia University (Institute of Transpersonal Psychology), Palo Alto, CA
Master of Arts in Psychology
2004-2009
Institute of Transpersonal Psychology, Palo Alto, CA
Bachelor of Arts, Physics
May 2000
Reed College, Portland, OR
High School Diploma
June 1996
Beaverton High School, Beaverton, OR
· GPA: 3.75
· Oregon State University Certificate of Honor
· National Honors Society
· Outstanding Computer Student 1995-1996
· 1995 US Physics Team Award Certificate
· AP Scholar
High School Student
September 1993-February 1994
James Monroe Law & Government Magnet High School, Los Angeles, CA
· Attended 10th grade
· Won a mock trial as a lead defense attorney
High School Student
November 1992-June 1993
James Monroe High School, Los Angeles, CA
· Attended 9th grade (in the US education system)
· Biology “Gene Jock” Award
· Outstanding Biology Student
High School Student
September 1990-October 1992
Physics-Mathematics Lyceum #239, St.-Petersburg, Russia
· Attended 8th through 10th grades (in the USSR education system)
· Was accepted into the lyceum upon successful completion of the required competitive tests
· Completed 2 years of natural sciences studies equivalent of college freshman and sophomore levels
· Led a school-wide movement to improve relationship between administration and student body, including relaxing uniform restrictions and increasing healthy personal expression in an academic community setting
Trainings and Certificates
Applied Organizational Design & Transformation
2022
Institute of Applied Organizational Design & Transformation (IAODT), Santa Fe, NM / Online
QEEG Biofeedback Training
December 2008
Stenz Corporation, San Rafael, CA
Biofeedback Training (Basic)
September 2007
Stenz Corporation, San Rafael, CA