Alyssa Anderson
Alyssa Anderson, MA, is a pre-licensed therapist pursuing licensure in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is grounded in Bowen Family Systems Theory, which focuses on understanding family dynamics and relationships to improve individual well-being. She has spent years exploring and applying these concepts to her own life, emphasizing systemic thinking in her approach. Because of her personal experience with the theory, she has developed a genuine understanding of the hard, yet rewarding work required to live a life of contentment.
You can expect to be met with curiosity, but never judgment. Alyssa values relationships and believes the success of therapy strongly depends on the client/therapist relationship. She prides herself on her ability to connect with clients, balancing empathy and humor with the appropriate level of challenge and accountability.
Alyssa believes that while therapy can be challenging and exhausting at times, it can also be fun, enjoyable, and something to look forward to. Her primary goal is to provide a safe space where clients feel relaxed, unconditionally valued, seen, and supported. Following the concepts of Bowen Family Systems Theory, Alyssa aims to help clients understand and address complex family dynamics by exploring their family of origin and the relationships that have shaped them. She works collaboratively with clients, individually or as a family, to identify relationship patterns, behavioral patterns, and other factors passed down through generations. Alyssa also regularly utilizes techniques associated with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing.
Education and Experience
Alyssa holds a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Psychology, both from Seton Hill University. As a pre-licensed therapist, she is diligently completing her supervision hours to obtain her LMFT. With over 12 years of experience, Alyssa has primarily focused on the drug and alcohol/SUD field, working closely with clients battling substance abuse and co-occurring disorders, as well as their families and loved ones. Her expertise also extends to addressing family conflict, anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, relationship issues, and grief.
Alyssa has developed a strong passion for postnatal and perinatal mental health and traumatic birth experiences, inspired by her own journey through these challenges. She is currently working towards certification in perinatal/postnatal treatment, further enhancing her ability to support women during these critical times. Alyssa’s dedication and diverse experience make her a compassionate and skilled therapist, committed to helping her clients achieve lasting well-being.
Hobbies and Interests
Alyssa embraces the identity of an “old soul,” finding joy in the simplicity of life. She lives with her husband, two young boys, and two dogs—a golden doodle named Millie and a black lab named Silo. Alyssa loves spending time with her family outdoors, often riding quads or dirt bikes. When she’s not outside, you can find her in her craft room, bringing creative ideas to life with her laser machine.
Alyssa is deeply passionate about raising awareness around premature birth, NICU stays, and their impact on mental health. After her first son was born at just 25 weeks, she became a dedicated supporter of the March of Dimes, advocating for the health of all babies and ensuring that mothers receive the care they need and deserve.
Committed to being the best version of herself, Alyssa actively engages in her own therapy and mindfulness practices. This dedication helps her thrive as a mother, partner, and therapist, continually striving to provide the best care for her family and clients.
Get Started with Marriage and Family Therapy
If you’d like to work with Alyssa to explore how your family dynamics and relationships can improve your well-being, call us at 412-856-WELL or contact us here. She is accepting clients at our Greensburg location.