Hi. I’m Amynta.
Pronounced “Uh-MINT-Uh.” Pleasure to (sort of) meet you!
It can be hard opening up to someone you just met, but my clinical superpower is forming meaningful connections from the start. I want to know about your hopes and dreams, the things that scare you, and the fervent wishes you have for a better tomorrow. You probably came to this website because you’re struggling and, just maybe, you hope things could get a little better with the right support. I’m ready to get started with you today.
I want you to know that I’ve met people just like you and had the privilege to watch them conquer demons, grow confidently, get out of bad situations, create new possibilities, and live more authentically with all the joys and sorrows we each are given. Maybe you’re skeptical. Maybe you’re at a breaking point. Maybe it’s hard to feel excited or capable of change. You’ve tried so hard for so long without seeing the results you need. Take the risk to let someone in and allow them to see your struggles but also your greatness. I’ll help you see your own greatness, too, if we get to work together.
Treatment Philosophy
The heart of psychotherapy is healing conversations with an attuned, supportive individual.
It is the clinical relationship that facilitates real change. Through care, close attention, empathy, intuition, and connection, the people I work with are able to take risks and explore new ways of being. Rather than seeing a treatment relationship as the thing that teaches you random tools you could have found in a listicle, I believe the relationship itself is how we grow and heal.
We get into trouble when we take the human condition *personally.*
How many times have you felt guilty for having complicated or unflattering emotional responses? How many times have you beaten yourself up for what you feel inside? We like to pretend that the only “healthy” emotions are pleasant ones - so-called “positive emotions” like happiness, gratitude, hope, and calm. But guilt, sadness, anger, and fear are also valid experiences that every person on this planet feels at times. What you feel is not a reflection of your character; it’s a reflection of your history, personality, needs, environment, and shared humanity.
Rest is productive.
It produces the effects of relaxation, wellbeing, nervous system harmony, and peace. It is also Radical - you can’t buy it, don’t need to earn it, can’t trade it, and get to return to it over and over again through your days. Rest is a necessity. In the inspiring words of The Nap Ministry’s Tricia Hersey: “Find ways to connect back to your body and mind. Find ways to intentionally slow down. Find ways to re-imagine and snatch rest right now. It is your divine and human right to do so.”
The answer is usually kindness.
But a cup of tea, a good book, petting a cat, calling a friend, or getting out into nature are always worth trying!
“How
Did the rose
Ever open its heart
And give to this world
All its
Beauty?
It felt the encouragement of light
Against its Being.
Otherwise,
We all remain
Too
Frightened”
- Hafez, 14th Century Persian Poet
Clinical Training
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At Dynamic Change Psychotherapy (and previously at a couple group clinics) I help people with a wide range of life difficulties and mental health struggles. I can help you adjust to a change, solve a problem, improve your relationships, treat yourself better, and address conditions like major depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and emotional dysregulation.
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Part of my advanced training – through my internship, post-doctoral residency, and beyond – has been focused on helping people cope with, manage, and unlearn symptoms of chronic pain. Whether chronic pain is something that bothers you occasionally, or it’s the main condition you want help with, I can support you to live your life more fully again.
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My clinical background in Buddhist psychology and “third-wave” behavioral therapies (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy) has given me a range of coping skills to teach others. We’ll still spend most of our time talking and exploring thoughts and feelings, but a non-judgmental and present-moment attention is woven in to how I work.
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My first experiences as a clinician included working in a residential treatment facility for those suffering from substance use disorders, and later I spent two years working part-time in an intensive outpatient treatment program. Now I use these skills to help my private practice clients examine their relationship to substances and make changes consistent with their goals and values. I tend to use a harm-reduction framework, but I also support those with abstinence goals. I have comprehensive knowledge in 12-Step recovery programs (and alternatives for people seeking something else).
“I highly recommend Dr. Hayenga, whom I have had the pleasure of knowing both personally and professionally. She approaches her work with authenticity, warmth, and listens deeply to the needs of her clients. Dr. Hayenga is a kind and compassionate healer.” — Dr. Rayna Harris
Whatever it you’re going through, get the care and support you need.
Let’s be in touch.
