Dr. Tiffany Bell is Postdoctoral Fellow with Wellness Psychological Services offering services in both our Tampa and St. Pete offices and virtually all across the state of Florida.
Hello! I am Dr. Tiffany Bell, a postdoctoral fellow working under the supervision of Dr. Lisas Beckman, specializing in adult mental health. With a Doctorate of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology, I have received training in working with a wide range of mental health issues training but my expertise lies in treating substance use disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, and the management of stress.
My therapeutic style is warm and empathetic with an emphasis on creating a safe and supportive space for clients to feel connected, heard, and understood throughout the therapeutic process. I provide holistic treatment that aims to enhance the overall wellness and fulfillment of my clients using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy that is guided by the principles of a person-centered approach.
My approach to treatment is individualized based on the particular needs of the client. Once I understand a client’s needs, we collaborate to identify specific and measurable goals in the areas causing you the most difficulty. I will help you gain awareness of maladaptive patterns while building on your strengths to develop positive coping strategies so that you may experience more positive feelings, healthier relationships, and attainment of goals while growing into best version of yourself.
Substance Abuse Specialization
I offer specialized assessment and treatment for substance use issues, regardless of the substance involved. Addiction can be overwhelming, but with motivation and the right support, recovery is possible. Whether aiming for total abstinence or harm reduction, I guide clients through steps like managing cravings, developing relapse prevention plans, and enhancing self-efficacy. Further, I also utilize SMART Recovery (Self-Management and Recovery Training), which is an evidence-based program designed to help individuals overcome addiction and achieve long-term sobriety. It emphasizes self-empowerment and self-reliance, providing tools and techniques for self-directed change, with the key components of building and maintaining motivation, coping with urges, managing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and living a balanced life. I also incorporate the 12-step program for those who find it beneficial. My approach addresses underlying mental health conditions like depression and anxiety, aiming to treat both substance abuse and its root causes.
Anxiety Disorders Specialization
I specialize in treating a wide range of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and panic disorder. Anxiety can be debilitating, affecting daily functioning and overall quality of life. My treatment approach is grounded in evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). These therapies focus on identifying and challenging unhelpful thoughts that contribute to anxiety, developing effective coping strategies, and gradually exposing clients to anxiety-provoking situations in a controlled and supportive environment. This process, known as exposure therapy, helps clients confront their fears and reduce avoidance behaviors. Additionally, I incorporate mindfulness and relaxation techniques to help clients manage physical symptoms of anxiety and promote a sense of calm and well-being. By addressing both the cognitive and physiological aspects of anxiety, I aim to help clients build resilience, improve their coping skills, and lead more fulfilling lives.
Depression Specialization
Depression can severely impact daily life, leading to feelings of hopelessness, fatigue, and a loss of interest in activities. My approach to treating depression is holistic and integrative, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and behavioral activation to address depressive symptoms. CBT helps clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns that contribute to depression, while behavioral activation encourages clients to engage in activities that bring pleasure and a
sense of accomplishment. This dual approach helps clients break the cycle of depression and ​fosters a more positive outlook on life. Additionally, I emphasize the importance of developing healthy lifestyle habits, such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep, which are crucial for managing depressive symptoms. By focusing on the mind-body connection, I aim to help clients improve their overall well-being and regain a sense of control over their lives. Through personalized and compassionate care, I support clients in their journey towards recovery, helping them rediscover joy and meaning in their lives.
Stress Management Specialization
Chronic stress can lead to significant health issues, including anxiety, depression, and physical ailments such as heart disease and hypertension. My approach to stress management involves helping clients develop effective strategies to cope with and reduce stress. This includes teaching relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery to help clients manage their stress response and promote relaxation. I also incorporate mindfulness practices to help clients stay present and reduce the impact of stressors on their mental and physical health. Time management skills are another key component of stress management, as they help clients prioritize tasks, set realistic goals, and create a balanced schedule. By addressing the sources of stress and finding practical solutions, clients can improve their overall well-being and resilience. My goal is to empower clients with the tools they need to manage stress effectively, enhance their quality of life, and achieve a greater sense of balance and fulfillment.
Other Adult Psychotherapy Specialties
- PTSD and Trauma
- Relationship issues
- Life Transitions and Adjustment Disorders
- Assertive and Effective Communication Skills
- Self-Esteem
- Relapse Prevention
- Motivational Interviewing