I have always possessed a deep love of learning. Inquisitive since childhood, I remain a lifelong student, continuously drawn to investigate the ultimate unknown: the human mind. Through my life, I have realized that no matter how much we learn about the human brain, there is always more to discover, and there is always something new to be found in each individual’s story.
Now, as a therapist, I wish to join you on a journey of self-exploration, through which you can cultivate both curiosity and compassion for yourself and others. I want to help you learn what’s serving you and what’s holding you back so you can continue to move forward, confident and equipped to create the life you want.
In my practice, I specialize in helping those dealing with anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationship issues, insomnia, and trauma. Growing up in an international community, I saw all of these challenges manifest in different forms, and I became fascinated with the ways difficult emotions affect people. I wondered why two people sharing the same experience could feel and react so differently. Over time, I became interested in not only searching out the answer to this question, but also finding ways to help people obtain their own insights and find healing.
How I Got Here
I did not plan to pursue trauma therapy until I began working as a Navy psychologist and saw trauma and PTSD at work. Before then, I had earned a Ph.D. in psychology, which meant that I was learning at a distance, through experimental studies in the laboratory and statistical procedures. When I was commissioned in the U.S. Navy as a research psychologist, I found myself exploring the real-life application of these same ideas in a vital way. People would come to me to talk about their lives and struggles, putting a human face to psychological phenomena that I knew were important but had only explored in the lab. It was enlightening to see how much I craved that experience of firsthand knowledge and personal interaction. By collaborating with another person, I was in a position to help them learn something that could further them in their life.
In light of that experience, I pursued the clinical practice of psychology so that I could combine scientific discoveries about the human mind and behavior with the personal insights of each person I work with and create an individualized treatment plan that helps them heal their particular emotional wounds. I genuinely feel that even though I have established myself in my private practice, I am never done learning new ways to promote lasting healing and emotional growth and development.
How I Can Help You
As a professional and an individual, I try not to take life for granted. When I am confronted with challenges, boundaries, and limits, I endeavor to face them head on, stretching my own limits until I encounter the next. I carry this attitude into my work as a therapist. In sessions, I model my zest and curiosity for life, encouraging my patients to tap into their own strengths to negotiate conflicts and find harmony in ways that feel organic for them. I work mindfully, with a deep attunement to each patient’s particular needs and an ability to uncover wisdom, excitement, and even humor in the depths of the most intimate and personal human experiences. For example, if you struggle with anxiety, you can learn to appreciate that looking ahead can be positive and motivating. If you are working on overcoming depression, with deliberate attention, you can discover the spark of curiosity still burning within yourself. As you and I build the sense of trust that is essential to any therapeutic relationship, you can reconnect with your own courageous, harmonious self.
When I am not at my office, I work as a psychologist at two Senior Nursing Facilities in the community, which I find deeply satisfying. I also value spending time with my family. My adventurous spirit draws me to the outdoors, and I love wandering along the beach, in the mountains, or through the woods. In addition to working out, practicing yoga, reading, listening to music, and occasionally binge-watching streaming television, I enjoy going out and being around people, interacting with them and observing the ways people navigate the space around them. My insatiable curiosity about people drives me to be an observer in every area of my life.
If you are ready to further pursue your curiosity about your own mind and explore ways to improve your life, I am here to take that journey with you.
Please click “Contact Me” so we can find out if I can be of assistance to you. You can ask any questions you may have about my work as a therapist in Beverly Hills, CA.
Alaleh “Allie” Selkirk, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, a Master’s degree in Education, a Doctorate in General Psychology, and a Post-Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. She started her career as an elementary school teacher. While raising her small children, Dr. Selkirk became increasingly curious and passionate about human development, leading her to pursue a Ph.D. in Psychology. She became a Commissioned Naval Officer and a Navy psychologist for nine years before entering private practice. Dr. Selkirk has specialized training in trauma treatment, depression treatment, anxiety treatment, and insomnia treatment, as well as extensive experience working with anger, relationship issues, and personality disorders. In addition to multiple Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, Dr. Selkirk is meritoriously honored as a lifetime member of America’s Registry of Outstanding Professionals, and distinguished by the International Association of Healthcare Professionals and Doctors of Excellence as a Top Psychologist in Beverly Hills, California.
Dr. Selkirk holds hospital admission privileges at the 61st Medical Squadron, Los Angeles Air Force Base, where she currently provides specialized mental health services to active-duty service members with PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, and Insomnia.