About Dr. Pagani
Background
Although my first career was in the arts (as a pianist, visual artist, dancer, administrator, and teacher), I have always maintained a deep and abiding interest in the complexity of the human mind. At midlife, I decided to delve deeper into this realm by pursuing a doctorate in clinical psychology. My background in the arts continues to inform my clinical work, both with highly creative individuals (see Clinical Services) and in the ways I aspire to show up for everyone: with spontaneity, flexibility, sensitivity, intuition, depth, and grace.
Approach
My approach to psychotherapy is grounded in deep respect for you and your life experience, along with compassion, kindness, and a recognition that you are here because you genuinely want to be well. I will help you to recognize and express your feelings, develop insight into your thoughts and actions, and come to understand what may be interfering with you having the life you desire. My work is culturally sensitive, and recognizes that trauma can be enacted not only at the individual level, but societally as well. How we work together will be based upon your individual needs and unique life experiences. The specific techniques and approaches that I may utilize include:
Attachment Theory
Existential
Family Systems
Humanistic
Integrative
Narrative
Parenting support
Play Therapy
Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy
Psychodynamic
Relational
Sand Tray
Somatic
Strength-Based
Trauma Focused
Research
Research and anecdotal evidence have long pointed to a correlation between bipolar disorder and heightened creativity. My dissertation, entitled “Bipolar Disorder and the Hypomanic Experience: Creative Advantages, Identity, Transmutation of Suffering, and Clinical Considerations Among Visual Artists, Writers, and Musicians,” explored this intersection. These research findings form the foundation of my work with individuals who have bipolar disorder and are artists in all forms of creative expression.
Consultation and Supervision
I provide consultation and clinical supervision to professionals and interns in clinical psychology. Please reach out if you are interested and would like to know more.
Professional Affiliations
California Psychological Association (CPA)
Marin County Psychological Association (MCPA)
Alameda County Psychological Association (SFPA)
San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis (SFCP)
Northern California Society for Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy (NCSPP)