- Client-centered approach
- Cognitive behavioral methods
- Family systems perspective
About Alissa
Dr. Alissa Putman is a Psychologist licensed in Maryland with 20 years of experience. She works with adults dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, self-esteem issues, career questions, and family concerns. Her practice includes focus areas such as parenting strain, grief, intimacy-related issues, and family of origin issues.
She uses a client-centered approach that keeps the conversation focused on what matters to the individual. Sessions often include goal-setting drawn from positive psychology and coaching ideas to help people move forward when they feel stuck. Cognitive behavioral strategies are used to unpick patterns of thinking and behavior that get in the way of daily life.
Dr. Putman also incorporates ideas from family systems work to help people see how roles and patterns from their family of origin still affect them now. That can clarify why certain responses show up in relationships and decision-making. She checks in regularly with clients about progress and direction to make sure sessions stay useful.
Her background includes work in higher education and healthcare settings, and volunteer efforts in suicide prevention education and mentoring for underrepresented minority teens. This range of experience informs how she addresses stress, burnout, and competing demands at work and home.
People who choose to work with her typically want practical steps and clearer next moves. She aims to balance listening with concrete tools so people can notice change between sessions.
How therapeutic approaches translate to online sessions
Client-centered therapy focuses on the person's experience and priorities. The therapist listens, reflects, and adapts questions so the client's concerns guide each session. This approach helps when someone wants a thoughtful conversation about values, parenting stresses, or relationship patterns.Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) looks at thoughts and behaviors that keep problems going. Sessions include practical exercises and small experiments to try between meetings. CBT can be useful for anxiety, sleep problems, mood changes, and stress management.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) helps people notice different parts of themselves and the roles they play. It can clarify how family of origin roles continue to shape reactions and relationships, and support changes in those patterns.
Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will collaborate with the client to choose methods that fit their goals, concerns, and personal preferences. That means checking in and adjusting techniques over time rather than sticking to a single method.
The original biography does not list specific session formats, so confirm current online options before booking. Many people find online sessions make it easier to fit therapy into busy days, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. These practical benefits help integrate therapy with work, parenting, and other commitments.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
20+ years
Listed in
Maryland
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does she address related to family backgrounds?
She helps people look at family of origin issues, communication problems, and patterns that continue to affect adult life.
Which therapeutic styles are used in sessions?
Work is mainly client-centered, with use of cognitive behavioral techniques and internal family systems ideas when they fit the client's goals.
How long has she been practicing?
She has 20 years of clinical experience working in settings such as higher education and healthcare.
What are her credentials and where is she based?
She is a Psychologist licensed in Maryland and practices with that professional credential.
Can I work with her if I live outside the United States?
Sessions are offered in English and she does not accept international clients at this time.
What session formats are available?
The original biography does not specify session formats; confirm current session options before booking to know which formats are offered.
How does billing and cost work?
Cost varies by location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin the process of working together?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger, use the emergency numbers. Looking for someone else? Find them by surname.