JoEllen Stevens

With over four decades of experience in the field of psychology, Dr. JoEllen Stevens stands at the forefront of comprehensive mental health care, offering a unique blend of clinical expertise and innovative program development. As the COO and Clinical Director at Psychological Services for Families, Dr. Stevens has cultivated a multifaceted approach to therapy that addresses a wide spectrum of psychological needs.

Dr. Stevens' educational background is as diverse as her clinical practice. She holds a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology with a Clinical Emphasis from the University of California, Santa Barbara, an M.A. in Psychology from California State University, San Jose, and a B.A. in Languages from the University of Missouri. This interdisciplinary foundation allows her to approach mental health from multiple angles, integrating educational, clinical, and cultural perspectives into her work.

Fluent in English, Spanish, and French, Dr. Stevens brings a multicultural dimension to her practice, enabling her to connect with and support a diverse client base. Her linguistic skills are particularly valuable in her work with multi-cultural families and in addressing immigration-related issues that can impact mental health.

Dr. Stevens' areas of expertise are extensive and varied. She specializes in batterers' treatment groups, drug and alcohol treatment and evaluation, and the diagnosis and treatment of children. Her work in co-parenting post separation and divorce showcases her commitment to family well-being, while her focus on managing anger and violence in families demonstrates her dedication to creating safer home environments. Additionally, Dr. Stevens is skilled in treating depression and anxiety disorders in both adults and children, and in conducting therapeutic psychological evaluations.

As a program director and developer, Dr. Stevens has made significant contributions to the field. She supervises staff and runs individual and group therapy sessions in the Intensive Outpatient Program at Psychological Services for Families. Her innovative work includes developing and directing curriculum for court-approved Batterers' Intervention Programs, as well as programs addressing drug and alcohol abuse, parenting, and co-parenting. Dr. Stevens is also the director and facilitator of A Street Intervention Programs, further extending her impact in the community.

Dr. Stevens' commitment to advancing the field of psychology is evident in her publications. She co-authored "Adoption Crisis," a book that delves into the psychology of adoption, exploring problems and solutions. Additionally, she co-created the SAME – Stevens Adopt-Match Evaluator, a test designed to assess parent-child compatibility and bonding, highlighting her innovative approach to family dynamics.

At Psychological Services for Families, clients can expect a comprehensive, tailored approach to mental health care. Dr. Stevens' extensive experience, combined with the center's wide range of services—including intensive outpatient programs for addiction, pain management, and mental health—ensures that each individual receives care that addresses their unique needs. Whether dealing with substance abuse, family conflicts, or personal mental health challenges, clients benefit from Dr. Stevens' holistic, evidence-based approach to therapy.

Dr. JoEllen Stevens' career exemplifies a dedication to improving mental health across diverse populations and addressing complex psychological issues. Her multifaceted expertise, program development skills, and commitment to comprehensive care make her a distinguished figure in the field of clinical psychology, offering hope and healing to individuals and families facing a wide array of challenges.