Dr. Carol Gandolfo , AZ Psychologist PSY-005279, CA Psychologist 16933

Dr. Carol Gandolfo is a licensed psychologist with twenty years of clinical experience working with diverse populations. Trained in California, she completed internships at a homeless shelter, under a licensed psychologist, at a counseling center, and at a Developmental Disabilities State Hospital, deliberately accepting a wide range of cases to build broad clinical experience.

She has worked with families and individuals on issues including domestic abuse, family conflict, childhood concerns, and substance use. Later, she spent several years at two Developmental Centers providing care for people with developmental disabilities and serious mental health conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, intellectual disabilities, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. In that role she also addressed forensic matters and provided expert testimony for recommitment hearings and competency evaluations.

After relocating from California, Dr. Gandolfo continued community-focused work by volunteering on a fire department Critical Incident Stress Management team, mentoring women transitioning out of prison, and serving as a Court Appointed Special Advocate. Much of her volunteer work concentrated on trauma and suicidality. She holds licensure as a psychologist in Arizona and California - AZ Psychologist PSY-005279 and CA Psychologist 16933 - reflecting her credentials to practice in both states.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Dr. Carol Gandolfo commonly draws on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma-Focused Therapy in her work. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps clients identify unhelpful thinking patterns and develop practical skills to manage symptoms like anxiety, depression, and stress, often through structured exercises and goal setting. Trauma-Focused Therapy concentrates on processing and reducing the lasting impact of traumatic experiences, offering strategies to manage trauma-related symptoms and improve daily functioning. Motivational Interviewing is also used when change feels difficult; it is a collaborative, client-centered approach that helps people explore ambivalence and strengthen motivation for change, which can be especially useful with addictions or readiness for behavioral shifts.

Choosing the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Dr. Gandolfo works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods best match their needs, goals, and preferences, adjusting the plan as progress unfolds.

Online therapy options include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, allowing flexible scheduling and access from home or other convenient locations. These formats make it easier to fit therapy into busy lives, maintain continuity of care, and connect with licensed professionals in ways that suit individual needs.