We want you to get the care you deserve.

Welcome!

I’m Dr. Thomas, a licensed clinical psychologist with specialized expertise in behavioral sleep medicine.

My approach to care integrates the latest research with compassionate, personalized treatment, all while being committed to helping individuals navigate challenges related to sleep to help with mental health and overall well-being.

Philosophy of Care

I believe in a collaborative and holistic approach to treatment. Each individual’s experience is unique, and I work closely with my patients to develop personalized treatment plans that address their goals.

Together, we can explore strategies that foster resilience, improve sleep, and promote long-term well-being.

Therapeutic Approaches

Below are the evidence-based modalities we use, you don’t need to know which is right for you, but hopefully this list gives you an idea of our repertoire.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is the gold standard treatment for insomnia. CBT-I taps into the psychology and physiology of sleep to optimize your sleep quality and continuity. As part of treatment, patients are taught techniques to:

  • Increase your drive for sleep at bedtime

  • Consolidate sleep into a more restful, continuous periods

  • Combat stressful thoughts interfering with sleep

Course of treatment is usually 4-6 weekly or biweekly sessions with 1-2 booster sessions.

CBT-I

Adjusting to sleep with positive airway pressure (PAP) devices is challenging for adults with sleep apnea. PAP desensitization is a brief intervention to help patients adjust to wearing your mask in manageable steps to help you achieve a full night of PAP use. As part of treatment, patients are taught techniques to: 

  • Gradually practice and adapt to wearing the mask

  • Reduce stress response while wearing mask 

Course of treatment is usually 4 weekly sessions with 1-2 booster sessions.

PAP Desensitization

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Nightmares (CBT-N) is an evidenced-based practice to reduce the impact of nightmares on patient’s sleep and emotional well-being. CBT-N works for nightmares that are trauma-related or unrelated to trauma (idiopathic nightmares). As part of treatment, patients are taught techniques to:

  • Rescript nightmares and rehearse this new, more positive version.

  • Relaxation techniques

  • Strategies to improve sleep habits

Course of treatment is usually 4 weekly or biweekly sessions with 1-2 booster sessions.

CBT-N

More About Dr. Thomas

I earned my PhD in Clinical Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh. I completed my clinical internship in Clinical Health Psychology at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, and I pursued further specialized training in Behavioral Sleep Medicine as an Advanced Postdoctoral Fellow at the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System.

Education and Training

Clinical Expertise

With extensive experience in treating sleep disorders, I specialize in applying evidence-based therapies for conditions such as:

  • Insomnia

  • Obstructive Sleep Apnea (CPAP adherence support)

  • Circadian Rhythm Disorders

  • Nightmares

I am particularly passionate about supporting individuals dealing with comorbid mental and physical health conditions.

Research and Publications

My research focuses on sleep health in adults with comorbid insomnia and sleep apnea (coined “COMISA”) and its relationship with mental health and cardiometabolic health. In addition to my private practice, I continue to collaborate with researchers at the Pittsburgh VA and University of Pittsburgh to enhance clinical care and improve patients' quality of life.

Teaching and Mentorship

I serve as an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Psychology at the University of Pittsburgh, where I teach my upper-level “Psychology of Sleep” course. Instructing students has been a rewarding aspect of my career, and I value the opportunity to contribute to the growth of the next generation of clinicians and researchers.

When not at work, I like to spend time with my family, walking our dog, rock climbing, and cooking.

Thank you for considering me as a partner in your mental health journey. I look forward to working with you!

License #: PS020420

Professional Networks

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