Karlaina Brooke, PsyD
Karlaina Brooke received her doctorate in clinical psychology from Baylor University. She completed an APA-approved clinical internship at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, where she studied under two of the foremost psychologists in the field of sexual functioning, Sandra Leiblum, Ph.D. and Raymond Rosen, Ph.D. She is licensed to practice psychology in Oregon and Washington.
As part of her specialty in female and male sexual functioning and women's health, Dr. Brooke regularly conducts individual and couple therapy, consults with medical and mental health providers regarding the care of their patients, and has assisted in the training of medical students. In addition to her clinical practice, she speaks to a variety of audiences throughout the year on topics related to sexual health, intimacy, and relationships. From 2002 to 2004, Dr. Brooke was a member of a research team funded by the National Institutes of Health studying treatment options for vulvodynia, a sexual pain condition.
Dr. Brooke also enjoys working with adults and adolescents with a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, and trauma.
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Michael Brooke, PsyD
"Personally I found Michael to be a pleasure to work with. He related easily and well and has a style that allows for open and honest exchanges" -Stuart Tuckman, PhD
I received a bachelor’s degree in psychology at the University of Oregon and graduated Magna cum laude. Then I earned my doctorate in clinical psychology at Rutgers University. This program emphasized hands-on experience with people from day one. I’ve had the privilege to help children, adults, and couples in emergency rooms, hospital settings, schools, clinics, and in private practice. After thirty years of mental health experience, I still enjoy my work immensely.
Why the interest in helping people diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum?
I received my training in helping people who are on the Asperger’s/Autism spectrum at a school in New Jersey (The Douglas Developmental Disabilities Center, New Brunswick, NJ) that exclusively provided services for children, adults, and families in which the enrolled child or adult was on the spectrum. I had the opportunity to work with hundreds of children and young adults.
They taught me that there is no typical person on the spectrum. I’m able to use this professional experience to tailor treatment to the specific needs of teens, and adults.
Currently, I enjoy providing socials skills training through my groups for teens and adults. For inquisitive teens and adults on the spectrum, I provide one-one therapy to address their questions. I also enjoy doing couples work were one or both partners are on the spectrum.
Why journey into couples therapy?
Our most intimate relationships are as essential to our well-being as eating and breathing. I’m able to enjoy my relationship with my wife more, and give more as a parent to our three children when we can manage relationship stress well.
When there is tension for a couple that keeps leading to hurt feelings and fighting, then both parties are being poisoned by the tension. Soon each person feels worse about him/herself and each person’s ability to be a parent, a working professional, and a friend is negatively impacted.
I enjoy helping couples repair emotional hurts and relationship damage. I like seeing the positive impact of couple therapy on all aspects of the couple’s personal and professional journey.
Why wade into the field of sex therapy?
Our society focuses on sexuality and body image to sell everything from clothes to cars. Sex and “sexy bodies” are constantly in our faces, yet there are virtually no healthy venues where we can learn about our own personal needs for intimacy and sensuality. All the sexist messages we hear growing up and misinformation the media touts can make true intimacy difficult for any couple.
I have had good teachers, training, and interpersonal relationships that have helped me learn to talk about sexual intimacy in a direct, clear, and compassionate manner. I find that helping couples learn some new skills, along with clarifying misconceptions about intimacy, rewards couples with renewed passion and self-respect.
My experience and passion is your guide.
I’ve seen thousands of kids, men, women, and couples as a mental health professional. What I’ve learned from their experiences and what I know from my training becomes your wise guide through the “rocky patch” that you are walking through. My experience means that you don’t have to walk alone in uncharted territory. You don’t have to stumble into dangerous terrain. You can let me guide you to a clear and fruitful path.