Dr. Diane Bridgeman PH.D., Psychologist
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Dr. Diane Bridgeman PH.D.

Psychologist

About

It is an honor and priviledge to work with people, often times, at their most vulnerable.

It is rewarding to help facilitate, drawing on ones strenghts, to enhance clients' ability to better understand, to move forward, and in many cases to go on to flourish.

I provide a safe, compassionate environment in which clients can work through their issues; for example; those of depression, anxiety, transitions, medical concerns, PTSD, disaster mental health, work/life balance, sefl-care, wellness/well-being, etc. 

Enhancements to my skill set comes from my many years of clinical practice experience, as a university lecturer, researcher, professional board member, conference presenter, etc. 

Registered EEG Technologist, Lecturer, Researcher, Clinician and Workshop Facilitator, Presenter Nationally and Internationally

Education and Training

University of California

Santa Cruz

Board Certification

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Provider Details

MaleEnglish 47 years of experience
Dr. Diane Bridgeman PH.D.
Dr. Diane Bridgeman PH.D.'s Expert Contributions
  • What antidepressants can I take for anxiety disorder?

    It is important that you are inquiring regarding what is the best medicine for an anxiety disorder. There are several types of anxiety disorders for example, developmental/from childhood experiences, your current life situation, psychological and other issues such as panic disorder, and genetic. Your therapist will help you evaluate which area might represent your issue and then discuss if medication is appropriate, and if so which one. Typically, and depending on causation if a medication is appropriate it may well be an SSRI such as Lexapro, Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil or Celexa. It is important you follow your doctors instruction on how and when to take it. It takes awhile before you notice an effect. First, however depending on the type of anxiety disorder and possible causation, just talking about the triggering factors, and related concerns can help one better deal with the anxiety. Also, checking on your sleep patterns, exercise, social connections, work or family stress are all important areas to explore with your therapist and sometimes medications are not needed, or the combination of therapy and meds work very well for many people. Often practicing good self-care, use of meditation or journaling, and time with friends can all support good mental health. My best to you, Diane Bridgeman, Ph.D. Licensed Clinical Psychologist Past president and current chair of MBPA's Social Justice/diversity committee Past chair of APA’s ACCA committee (831) 420-1109 dianebridgeman@mac.com READ MORE

  • Can psychotherapy harm me?

    In general you do not have to be concerned about psychotherapy being harmful. The best ways to assure that it is appropriate is to work with a specific psychotherapist is to find someone who is a licensed therapist, such as a PhD psychologist, or LMFT, LCSW - with all being licensed and given your concern, one with some experience will be very helpful. Often your family doctor may be able to refer you to a licensed experienced therapist, or perhaps through a community counseling center referal. It is important to look at why you feel it might be harmful for you. Talking with your family doctor about this concern would be appropriate. Proud of you for checking into these feelings and wishing you much success with this effort. Diane Bridgeman, Ph.D. Licensed Clinical Psychologist Past president and current chair of MBPA's Social Justice/diversity committee Past chair of APA’s ACCA committee (831) 420-1109 dianebridgeman@mac.com READ MORE

  • My aunt sleeps all day?

    Sorry to learn about your aunt. It can be part of the bereavement process to sleep as a way to cope with the loss. She would benefit from talking with a therapist or attending a bereavement group. She needs understanding, support, and ways to gently tell her she deserves to take care of herself and her son would want her to do so. Start out with a few minutes in another room, and then sitting outside and being in nature when she's ready. I wonder about the Covid piece, might she have long Covid, need for much rest, much fatigue, need to pace one's activity, can all be symptoms, have her talk with her doctor about the possibility of long Covid, often most tests come back normal, yet the inflammation can cause chronic fatigue like symptoms and checking with her doctor would be wise in any regard. Important you are checking on her and my best to you. Dr. Bridgeman READ MORE

  • Can therapy cause more anxiety?

    Yes, it is not unusual for one to experience anxious thoughts when in therapy given the nature of the process, yet when these feelings come up, talking with the therapist is very helpful and together you can assess why at specific times, or on specific issues you might feel more anxious. It may help for you to note when you feel your anxious feelings and see if there is a pattern as to time of day, level of sleep, around certain interactions, etc. The therapist will help you process the patterns you note and will probably recommend, healthy sleep habits, regular exercise, time in nature and with friends, meditation apps, etc. Overall therapy may elicit some anxiety while overall it will help you recognize, identify and deal with anxiety and generally feel better overall. Dr. Bridgeman READ MORE

  • Will antidepressants help my anxiety?

    Thanks for your inquiry. It depends on the factor or factors that may be contributing to the anxious feelings. It would help if you could do a simple noting of when you feel most anxious, you might see a pattern that can help assess the timing, possible similar situations, how relates to quality and quantity of sleep, certain interactions, etc. Talking with a therapist can be very helpful and they can work with you to determine possible type and factors for the anxiety and they are in a position to asses whether an antidepressant/anxiety type medication may be helpful and perhaps they have a physician to refer you to for a prescription, or you can contact your family doctor. You might try, setting a time to think about your anxiety or other concerns and then try not to think about them at most other times, use medication apps, regular exercise, time in nature, walks, and time with friends as social connections are very important to our well being. Take care READ MORE

  • Stomach issues when dating?

    It is very common for young people who start dating to feel anxiety around it. I am sorry you are experiencing these trying feelings. We are putting ourselves out there to be accepted, or not, and that naturally prompts anxious feelings. Often establishing a friendship first can help you assess whether this person might be appropriate to date or to just maintain as a friend which in itself can be very rewarding. First knowing your hurt feelings are understandable and "normal" may help you feel less anxious. Try also using regular relaxation apps such as Calm and Headspace on a regular basis and then if something anxiety provoking happens you will be more grounded, centered and better able to cope with it. How a relationship ends can also inform how people feel about it ending. If it is done with thoughtfulness and respect it can be much easier to accept. Also taking care of yourself with reasonable sleep, eating, exercise, time with others, in nature, etc can all contribute to feeling better to begin with, please take care. Best, Diane Bridgeman, Ph.D. READ MORE

  • How long does it take for CBT for insomnia to work?

    Since reasonable sleep is at the heart of healthy psychological and physiological health it is important you access support around the issue of insomnia, which is unfortunately a common problem. There are many reasons for insomnia, so depending on what might be contributing to it for your situation will inform how long it might take for CBT to help lessen the problem. It also depends on how long the insomnia has been in place and other important factors in your life. If one would be able to generalize we could say perhaps 6-8 sessions or less. Wise of you to seek support and the wishing you much success. Best, Diane Bridgeman, Ph.D. READ MORE

  • Can you have psychotherapy for depression?

    Professionally it is stated that one generally should have 5 depression symptoms most days for at least 2 weeks including a depressed mood, or loss of interest or pleasure in most activities, of course this can vary. It is important to explore any possible variable that could elicit the changes in your mood. Yes, psychotherapy can help you with this process and discuss strategies for coping with the feelings you are experiencing. You can also write down or journal your thoughts to help you see any patterns and to try to let go of negative thoughts if you are experiencing them and this can also be shared in therapy as well. Sending you good wishes in this process. Diane Bridgeman, Ph.D, READ MORE

  • What type of therapy is best for panic attacks?

    The type of therapy for panic attacks varies and often depends on knowing more specifics about the panic feelings. You might make note of what seems to trigger your panicky feelings and use relaxing, grounding meditations (see the many apps to help with this) before or during those times. Often cognitive behavioral therapy is found helpful, as is anxiety focused psychodynamic psychotherapy, while primarily it is the level of therapeutic alliance that is developed between you and the therapist that bring about the most success. Good that you are wanting to reach out. It can take talking with, or seeing a few therapists to see which one would offer the best connection for you. Unfortunately, it is often currently difficult to find therapists that have openings, don't give up and check with your family doctor and/or your medical mental health insurance. Good luck to you. Diane Bridgeman, Ph.D. READ MORE

  • Medication causing vertigo?

    Reply to a person with a question regarding vertigo when taking Sertraline - you have provided thoughtful information regarding the history of any precious vertigo. Given the only other vertigo was when on Sertraline previously it may well be the case that it is the contributing factor. The key question did previous vertigo go away after a few weeks? If so that may be the case this time. It is known that Sertraline and other SSRI antidepressants may cause dizziness, it should subside after being on it for a while, again did it last time? You should definitely check with your prescribing doctor. There is a possibility that starting with a lower dosage and gradually titrating the amount until the desired dosage might be helpful. This is something your doctor can review with you. Perhaps a different antidepressant would be appropriate yet again your doctor will need to go over this with you. You provide helpful facts and in talking with your doctor this should be able to be rectified. Take care! READ MORE

  • Can my psychologist talk to anyone else about me?

    Therapy is always absolutely confidential information. There are a few limits to the confidentiality agreement with respect to the exception for a clients' well-being, and if one is a danger to oneself or others. You should definitely talk with your therapist to review these official policies. The heart of therapy is built on trust, and a well developed therapeutic alliance so you want to be fully comfortable and assured so you can share whatever is helpful to you. Important that you clarify these feelings and much success to you in your therapy. READ MORE

  • I am always anxious and have been this way for the last 7 years. What can I do to get a break from this anxiety?

    Perhaps you haven't fully dealt with the grief from your mother's passing. Talking with a therapist around this issue may be helpful or even attending a Hospice grief group. In working with a therapist it would be helpful to that person (& to you), if you can identify what patterns emerge around specific types of anxieties and what may trigger them. Looking at changes before and then after your mother's passing in your behaviors, thoughts, routines, might provide some clues. It might be helpful to remember that many people have deep feelings around a major loss, so that you might look at this as a normal reaction that is deserving of fully processing. Do you take time for regular self-care? Does the anxiety affect your sleep? Do you try to find reasonable life/work balance? These are points you might want to discuss with a therapist. You might consider mindfulness based meditation, positive visual imagery, regular exercise, eating healthy, and finding regular moments of joy and purpose. You can also visit online the U.C. Berkeley Greater Good Science Center for many helpful articles, videos, classes on positive psychology and related concepts around reducing anxiety. Good luck to you and your reaching out is an excellent start. READ MORE

Areas of expertise and specialization

Clinical psychologyconference presenterdisaster mental healthDisaster Mental Health Fundamentalsethics/professional issuesInternational Humanitarian Lawkeynote speakerresilienceself-caretrainings/teaching - ARC instructor; Psychological First Aidwork/life balance

Faculty Titles & Positions

  • Lecturer & researcher in psychology Un. of Calif; Santa Cruz 1977 - 1984
  • national & international conference presentations APA conventions, International Congress of Psych 2003 - 2022

Awards

  • ARC Professional Hero award - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvQZ1prbqn8   
  • Sisters in Service award for International Service - Tiffany Circle   
  • Top 5 Psychologist in Santa Cruz County award   
  • Outstanding Psychologist by the Monterey Bay Psychological Assocation   
  • Recipient of County award for Improving the Status of Women   
  • ARC Hazel Snow Award for Superior leadership locally & nationally   

Professional Memberships

  • American Psychological Association, and past chair of its Colleague Assistance committee, California Psychological Association, past chair of its colleague assistance committee, Monterey Bay Psychological Association, past board president and chair of Col  
  • Member of the American Psychological Association & past chair of its Colleague Assistance committee, current member of the California Psychological Association - and past chair of its Colleague Assistance committee, current member of the Monterey Bay Psyc  

Charities and Philanthropic Endeavors

  • 30 yr. volunteer, American Red Cross in disaster mental health, responding to disasters, teaching, awarded its highest vol. honor - Clara Barton award in 2021 https://redcrossblognccr.org/2021/

Professional Society Memberships

  • See above - professional membership and under articles & publication summary

Professional Affiliations

  • See professional membership above

Articles and Publications

  • Currently, and for over 30 years, Diane Bridgeman, Ph.D. has maintained a clinical psychology practice and gives keynote addresses, workshops, teaches and develops polices and materials on; self-care/wellness, resilience, trusted-reciprocity, disaster mental health, clinical concerns, colleague assistance/ethics & professionalism, etc. Previously she was a university lecturer and researcher at the University of California, Santa Cruz where she received her Ph.D. She was honored in 2018 with the UCSC distinguished alumna award. Examples of other past awards from various associations include, i.e., MBPAs Outstanding Psychologist Award, the American Red Cross, Professional Hero Award, the Sisters in Service award, & its Clara Barton Award in 2021. Dr. Bridgeman was past president and is current chair of the Monterey Bay Psychological Associations Social Justice/Diversity Committee. For five years she was a member of the California Psychological Associations Colleague Assistance and Support executive committee and its co-chair in 2010. She served on the American Psychological Associations (APA), Advisory Committee for Colleague Assistance for 3 years, & was chair in 2009 and 2010. She was also a member of the California Disaster Mental Health Coalition and was chair in 2010-2012 & again in 2017-2019. She has been a (25 plus year) responder, volunteer manager, and instructor for the American Red Cross of the Central Coast, within the disaster mental health (DMH) activity. She coordinated its DMH team and was on its International Services Committee for Santa Cruz County. As an ARC instructor Diane taught classes in Disaster Mental Health Fundamentals, Psychological First Aid, International Humanitarian Law, Flu Pandemic, among others. Dr. Bridgeman responded to earthquakes, floods, 9/11 in NYC, airline incidents, wildfires, etc. She has given talks at Red Cross organizations in Rome & Padua, Italy; Stockholm, Sweden; Munich, Germany; Beijing, China; & Geneva, Switzerland. Dr. Bridgeman is the author of, and contributor to various published articles for example; Enhanced Role Taking Through Cooperative Interdependence: A Field Study, Journal, Child Development; Benevolent Babies: Emergence of the Social Self, book chapter; Differentiation of Domains & Prosocial Behavior, book chapter; Jury Decision Making: A Field Study Based on Actual Felony Trials, Journal of Applied Psychology; Listening & Learning From our Colleagues: ACCA National California 2010 Survey Results, Journal of the California Psychological Association; Minimizing the Risk of Patient-Clinician Violence: A Clinical Primer, Journal, The Clinical Psychologist; Psychologists Suicide: Incidence, Impact & Suggestions for Prevention, Intervention & Postvention, Journal, Professional Psychology: Research & Practice; and editor of the book by Academic Press, The Nature of Prosocial Development: Interdisciplinary Theories and Strategies. See listing below for most current articles and presentations. Examples of most recent articles, presentations, etc.The International Congress of Psychology, Beijing, China - 2004Cabrillo College - 2005The Organization of Counseling Directors in Higher Education - 2006Psychology/Counseling Department, Stanford University - 2007APA (America Psychological Association) Leadership Conference - 2008International Congress of Psychology, Berlin, Germany 2008Red Cross Medical Professional Hero Award 2009 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvQZ1prbqn8Am Psychological Association convention presentations - 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013California Association of Social Workers conference - 2011University of California, Santa Cruz, IHL presentation for UCSC ARC Club - 2012San Francisco Psychological Association presentation - 2013Monterey Bay Psychological Association presentation - 2014Sisters in Service Fund Raiser Keynote address - 2015International Congress of Psychology, Japan - 2016World Red Cross/Red Crescent Day presentation - 2017Received UCSCs Distinguished Graduate Student Alumni Award & gave address 2018. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1wMAlEZBRQ&t=3442sPresentation CAMFT convention 2019, & LCSW conference CA - 2020Judge for UCSC Graduate Student Research Awards 2019, 2020, 2022Radio interview Best Practices for Mental Health & Critical Incidents - 2020Teaching re: Covid and Stress Reduction via ARC Reconnection workshops - 2020Honored & gave talk for receiving the Red Cross Clara Barton Outstanding Volunteer award 2021. https://redcrossblognccr.org/2021/07/03/carrying-clara-bartons-legacy-for Interview by journalist for the Am. Psychological Association Monitor journal - 2021Invited to give talk to Bay Area ARC Staff Self-Care, Who Cares? 2021Zoom Presentation for UCSC Alumni Week on Cultivating Resilience: pre, during & post Covid - 2021 Asked to reply to Academic/Letters article by Cohen, Abukhalaf, et al, on Necessity to Plan & implement Mental Health Disaster Preparedness & Intervention Plans, Bridgeman response printed on 9/14/21 Equity to Mental Health Concerns Assures That Those who Give and Receive Assistance and Our Communities All Gain - 9/14/21Asked to give presentation and be on panel for Arkansas Psychological Association on 10/23/21 talk entitled - The intrinsic Link Between Self-Nurturing & Ethics for Psychologists: Why So Needed, Yet So Elusive? - 10/23/21Asked to comment from a clinical psychology perspective on book written by Professor Amy C. Beal, Terrible Freedom: The Life & Work of Lucia Dlugoszewski UC Press, 2022Asked to revise therapy section for Prof. Crawfords psychology textbook, Transformations Women, Gender & Psychology McGraw Hill, - 2022Developed PDF listing of resources regarding Helping Ukrainians & Each Other, 3/22 and PDF Strategies for Staying Informed, Yet Not Overwhelmed 3/22Establishment of Student Equity Award as social justice, diversity chair for the Monterey Bay Psychological Association to 4 students of color who will be attending a clinical psychology graduate program in Fall, 2022 to promote greater clinical psychology diversity and hope to continue with this program and share it with other professional associations across all disciplines.

Areas of research

  • The importance of cultivating and support of interdependence, developing of trusted reciprosity and cultivation of resilience, work/life balance

Awards

  • See "Articles & Publication" section above - Red Cross Medical Professional Hero Award 2009 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvQZ1prbqn8 & Received UCSCs Distinguished Graduate Student Alumni Award & gave address 2018. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1wMAlEZBRQ&t=3442s. Honored & gave talk for receiving the Red Cross Clara Barton Outstanding Volunteer award 2021. https://redcrossblognccr.org/2021/07/03/carrying-clara-bartons-legacy

Philanthropic Initiatives

  • Many years of volunteer work as mentioned above with the American Red Cross in disaster mental health - responding, teaching and awarded several of its central awards - The Clara Barton award in 2021

Teaching and speaking

  • Early teaching as lecturer and researcher at UCSC in psychology, and ongoing talks nationally and internationally

Hobbies / Sports

  • Singing, as I have in recent past for over 20 years with the Santa Cruz Chorale - with tours in Italy and CroatiaApplying my psychology research and clinical experience to assist in decreasing the demoralizing political divide and to seek more understanding and how to hold differing views while doing so respectfully. Understanding the psychology behind those large corporations and their seeking of money and power & control even when it clearly results in climate calamities, gun violence, taking away our personal rights and a women's right to choose, and the importance of treating all people with respect regardless of color or identity. We must harness all talented minds in exploring "dark money" and the outsize influence it has in our society, our quality of life, and our fragile democracy!

Areas of research

Clinical Psychology, Professional concerns of Psychologists, Resilience/trusted reciprosity, Disaster Mental Health, Self-Care, Trauma, work/life balance, moral injury, pandemic considerations, social justice/diversity issues, etc.

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