Ananda Liz Peixoto Couto

B.A., Clinical Psychology Ph.D. student

I provide psychological services to adults (18+) with a variety of presenting concerns. I provide both therapy and psychological assessment services, working from a multicultural framework and utilizing empirically-supported assessment and treatment modalities that are consistent with the goals, life experiences, and values of the client.

Some of my areas of clinical interest include:

Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder)
Anxiety and Panic Disorders
Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders
Eating Disorders
Personality Disorders
Identity Development and Exploration
Psychological Assessment

Therapeutic Approach

I take an empathetic, collaborative, and integrative approach to therapy, often combining different evidence-based therapeutic modalities tailored to each individual client’s needs. My interventions are often informed by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Interpersonal Process Therapy (IPT).

I believe in working from a multicultural framework, respecting client’s unique identities and considering the context of their experiences. Finally, I strive to provide a therapeutic space that is safe, supportive, and strengths-based, and that allows clients to explore their experiences and empowers them to achieve their goals.

Education and Experience

I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of South Florida, where I was able to explore different approaches to the study of human mind, behavior, and attitudes. In addition to my focus on psychology, I pursued a minor in Applied Behavior Analysis, which provided me with more insight into the role of environmental factors in understanding behavior.

I gained valuable experience working as a research assistant in different labs with focus on cognition, mood and emotion, and continued to foster my love and curiosity for psychology and the study of the human mind. I decided to continue my education and work towards earning a doctorate in psychology.

I am currently pursuing my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). My graduate program uses a scientist-practitioner model, focusing on both research and practice, and on the integration of research in practice. Throughout my training and clinical experience, I have learned to appreciate the immense honor and privilege we have, as therapists, to be part of our client’s journey of healing, and to bear witness to their growth and progress.

Personal Interests

I was born and raised in Brazil, where I lived for the first 18 years of my life. I moved to the United States in pursuit of my education and have ventured abroad ever since. My family still resides in Brazil, so I never miss an opportunity to go back and visit. I’m very grateful for technology that allows us to stay in touch! I also love spending time with friends, playing board games, watching movies, or enjoying a good book. I will also occasionally explore a new hobby – so far, I have tried charcoal drawing, baking, and playing the ukulele!