Dave Aitken

From military service to software development, and now to the realm of clinical psychology, Dr. Dave Aitken brings a wealth of diverse experiences to his practice at Willow Anxiety & OCD. This unique background informs his approach to therapy, allowing him to connect with clients from various walks of life and provide nuanced, empathetic care.

Dr. Aitken specializes in treating older teens and adults grappling with a range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, body-focused repetitive disorders, and PTSD. His expertise in these areas is bolstered by his thorough familiarity with Willow's treatment philosophy and methods, having worked at the clinic for three years as a practicum trainee under Dr. Jakatdar's supervision.

During his doctoral internship at the Veteran's Administration medical center in Grand Island, Nebraska, Dr. Aitken honed his skills in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based treatments. He also gained valuable experience in administering and interpreting neuropsychological assessments. His time at the VA reinforced his belief in the importance of helping clients clarify their personal values and vision for their lives, recognizing that successful therapy often involves not just stopping negative behaviors, but building a life worth living.

Dr. Aitken's approach to therapy is grounded in the understanding that all mental health disorders involve habits of thinking and behavior that clients use to avoid emotional pain. However, this avoidance often prevents clients from fully engaging in life. He works collaboratively with clients to identify the life they're not living and uses this as motivation for the challenging work of building and maintaining new habits.

With his background in the computer software industry and his experiences in various roles from dishwasher to private detective, Dr. Aitken brings a unique perspective to his therapeutic work. This diverse life experience allows him to connect with clients from all backgrounds and helps him understand the real-world challenges they face.

At Willow Anxiety & OCD, Dr. Aitken is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each client's unique needs. Whether working with older teens or adults, he strives to create a supportive environment where clients can explore their challenges, develop new coping strategies, and work towards living a more fulfilling life aligned with their values.