Anne Carlson, Psy.D., IMH-IV

Therapy Approach & Specialties
At Ann Arbor Therapy & Testing, Dr. Anne Carlson takes a strengths-based approach to therapy, focusing on each individual’s unique abilities and areas for growth. Her work combines evidence-based interventions, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and the Neurobiological Attachment Model, developed by Dr. Daniel Siegel. This model helps to better understand the profound changes in brain development during childhood and adolescence, making it especially effective in treating Anxiety, Depression, and related parenting challenges during key developmental transitions.
Dr. Carlson’s specialties include:
- Anxiety & Depression
- Women’s issues across the lifespan
- Child and Adolescent Therapy
- Parenting Support & Education
- Trauma and PTSD
- Adult and Child ADHD
- Life Transitions and Relationship Issues
Dr. Carlson is deeply committed to helping clients build resilience, improve self-esteem, and foster a positive mindset. Her compassionate and empathetic approach helps individuals develop a deeper self-awareness while learning how to effectively navigate life’s challenges.
Education & Work Experience
Dr. Carlson earned her doctorate in Psychology (Psy.D) from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 2000, where she specialized in working with children, adolescents, and families. After completing her doctoral training, Dr. Carlson went on to complete a post-doctoral fellowship at Mid-Step Child Development Center in State College, PA, where she honed her expertise in providing therapy and conducting neurodevelopmental evaluations for children and families.
Throughout her career, Dr. Carlson has worked in diverse settings, including outpatient, inpatient, school, and home environments, with individuals ranging in age from birth to 70. She served as the Director of Outpatient Services at a community mental health organization in Indiana for seven years, where she also provided clinical supervision and training, and oversaw clinical programs.
Dr. Carlson has received the Level IV Endorsement in Infant Mental Health, the highest level of certification in the field.
Core Values
Dr. Carlson is deeply rooted in her core values of empathy, self-awareness, and resilience, which she shares with her group practice Ann Arbor Therapy & Testing. She believes that the therapeutic process should be rooted in a strong, supportive relationship, where clients feel understood and empowered. Her work focuses on:
- Empathy: Building a warm, trusting connection with each client.
- Self-Awareness: Helping clients develop insight into their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
- Resilience: Supporting individuals in overcoming challenges and building emotional strength.
- Positive Mindset: Encouraging growth, optimism, and the belief that change is possible.
- Improved Self-Esteem: Helping individuals recognize their inherent worth and cultivate greater self-confidence.
Interesting Facts
When she’s not working, Dr. Carlson is a proud mom to two adult children who continue to inspire her every day. She also loves spending time in the kitchen, cooking, baking, and exploring new places through travel. These passions provide her with balance and creativity, which she brings into her professional life as well.