Hi, I’m Dr. Amanda Baker. My path to becoming a therapist began with a longstanding interest in how the brain, emotions, and environment interact across development. I earned my Ph.D. in Psychology from UCLA, specializing in cognitive neuroscience, and my research has focused extensively on anxiety, sleep, and emotional development during adolescence. I work with adolescents and young adults experiencing anxiety, panic, phobias, health-related fears, sleep difficulties, and persistent worry. I especially enjoy helping clients understand why their minds and bodies respond the way they do—and showing them that these patterns are understandable and changeable. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in research. I use practical, evidence-based strategies drawn from cognitive behavioral therapy, including gradual exposure when appropriate, while adapting treatment to each client’s personality, goals, and pace. Clients never need to arrive knowing exactly what to say; we will work together to understand what is happening and identify manageable steps forward. My goal is not only to reduce distress, but to help clients feel more confident responding to difficult thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations so they can return to the relationships, activities, and experiences that matter to them.