I want you to get the care you deserve.
Susanne H. Weir, Psy.D.
Since 2003, I have worked with adults, teens, and children who have had many different needs. People who meet with me often seek support for relationship troubles, depression, anxiety, grief, chronic pain, life transitions, and work or academic stress.
Influenced by the effect of Buddhist Psychology in my own life, as a psychologist I was initially drawn to learning about the role and use of mindfulness in psychotherapy.
Over the course of my career, I have been drawn to understanding trauma and exploring paths for healing. I have pursued training in EMDR, Complex Trauma, Dissociative Experiences, Developmental/Attachment Trauma, and Internal Family Systems. My personalized treatment approaches emphasize safety, warm collaboration, and trust in each person's own innate wisdom.
Since 2016, I have deepened my connection within the Autistic Community. I am a proponent of the neurodiversity paradigm, which asserts that autism is a natural brain difference, not a deficiency. I have immersed myself in understanding of autistic experiences from other people in the autistic community as well as autistic researchers. Given how the field of psychology's understanding of autism has shifted massively in recent years, many more children are being accurately identified as being autistic, and many adults are suspecting for the first time that they, too, may be autistic. There is an entire generation of “Lost Autistic Adults” who seek validation and understanding as they come to understand themselves as autistic people and begin exploring autistic culture.
Many adults find such resonance within the autistic community that they feel confident to self-identify as being autistic. Self-diagnosis is widely accepted throughout the community, especially given the barriers to accessing quality, affirming care. I support this wholeheartedly. I also recognize that many people find it helpful to further explore their neurology with a trusted clinician.
For many, confirmation of their autistic neurology can highlight valuable context and understanding about their life experiences. This can lead to increased clarity and a deeper sense of peace in their lives. It can help people to feel more confident in their own self advocacy as well with their advocacy for autistic loved ones. I want these experiences to be accessible to people who wonder if they, too, are autistic. I am committed to using neurodiversity-affirming practices to explore autistic identity with interested adults.
I also recognize that misperceptions about autistic experiences and culture continue to be widespread. I am committed to providing consultation for other professionals who want to better understand the autistic experience, or who seek clarity in differential diagnosis for neurodivergent clients.
The Basics
Dr Weir (she/her) is the Founder and Director of Weir Psychological Services, Inc.
Licensed as a Psychologist by the State of California (PSY24761)
Based in Silicon Valley
Provides psychotherapy and adult autism assessments online for people throughout California
Education
Psy.D. | Doctor of Psychology, The Wright Institute
M.A. | Clinical Psychology, The Wright Institute
B.A. cum laude | Psychology, Whitman College
Teaching
Psychology of Gender, Palo Alto University’s Psychology and Social Action Program
Interpersonal Abuse and Trauma, Fresno City College