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Debra Waters-Roman
About
Hello and it is a pleasure to meet you. My name is Dr. Debra Waters-Roman and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in the states of California and New York. I have more than 35 years of experience providing mental health services. I am committed to creating a safe, therapeutic space where clients feel heard and validated. It is my goal to work with clients in a collaborative fashion so that their goals can be met. I will do my very best to support, educate and intervene with clients in ways that feel respectful and meaningful. I enjoy working with diverse individuals and embrace the opportunity to learn while helping others.
I have both personal and professional experience working with neurodivergent individuals. I am constantly amazed and inspired by the stories of resiliency and strength that I hear. I believe that each autistic individual has their own unique story to tell which must be respected and valued. I actually view neurodiversity as a strength and not as a weakness. I am honored to have the privilege to work with neurodivergent/autistic individuals in order to build upon their strengths and enhance their overall level of functioning.
I utilize a strengths based approach in my work. I think it is crucial to build a strong therapeutic relationship with a client that is rooted in affirming practices that help clients reach their fullest potential. In my role as a professor at the University of Southern California I co-founded a Neurodiversity Affinity Student Support Group which provided a safe space for autistic students to advocate for themselves as well as receive support and establish a peer network. I utilize active listening skills and work to a create an effective and safe therapeutic environment that is focused on strengths and embraces diversity.
