myspace images
www.psychologyconnections.com
Myspace Codes provided by PimpMyCom
Dr. Leavitt is a Registered Psychological Assistant who works with her supervisor, Dr. Marie King, Ph.D, in a Private Practice in Torrance, CA. She believes theory does not always equal therapy and uses an eclectic approach in her treatment of patients. She understands that as human beings we are multi-dimensional, interlinked and inseparable. Dr. Leavitt's work hinges on a variety of theoretical perspectives covering a broad view of health and wellness. Dr. Leavitt's professional interests include art, relaxation, and educational therapy, as well as psychological assessment of children, adolescents and adults. She specializes in working with patients diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome (PTSD) and the evaluation and treatment of bariatric patients. Having undergone bariatric surgery herself in 2003, she is especially sensitive to the needs and concerns of individuals dealing with weight and eating related issues, as well as physical, emotional, and interpersonal issues both before and after weight-loss surgery. After losing 230 pounds, she underwent a lower body lift in April 2005 where her surgeon removed over 53 pounds of excess skin.Dr. Leavitt was featured in the April 9, 2007 issue of People Magazine and the May 14, 2007 The National Enquirer discussing the effects of Transfer of Addiction After Weight Loss Surgery.Soon after her gastric bypass she was laid off from her job. Desperate and depressed and unable to calm herself with food she began to shop compulsively. Three years later she was forced to admit she was a shopping addict who would often hide her purchases from her husband and family. She maxed out all her credit cards and even began to use her parent’s credit. Soon she was in over $15,000.00 in debt and had collection agencies calling everyday. After her parents received a $3000.00 American Express bill in June 2006 Dr. Leavitt was forced to admit she had a serious problem. Her “breaking point was when her Father called her a “liar and a thief.†The next day she joined Debtors Anonymous. She now regularly speaks to bariatric surgeons and patients about the danger of addiction transfer and bariatric surgery.Dr. Leavitt has also been featured on Good Morning America (April 12, 2007), ABC Radio, Inside Edition (April 9, 2007) Northwest Afternoon (April 2007) and Good Morning UK (May 26, 2007).In addiction to her practice Dr. Leavitt is now Clinical Director of the Bariatric Surgery Evaluation and Support Program of the Southbay; a new program that addresses the psychological needs of the bariatric surgery patient.Dr. Leavitt has been described as a "compassionate therapist, a powerful motivator and a humorous and dynamic speaker."I wish everyone a joyful and successful trip on their own personal journey though life.