Dr. David Engstrom , AZ Psychologist PSY-002048

Dr. David Engstrom is a clinical health psychologist whose training and career reflect a long-standing commitment to helping people manage complex health and emotional challenges. He earned a Ph.D. from the University of Southern California and completed his internship at Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center. He is also a Diplomate of the American Board of Professional Psychology, which denotes board recognition of advanced professional competence. He is a licensed psychologist in Arizona (AZ Psychologist PSY-002048) and practices in Scottsdale while serving on the medical staff at Honor Health Medical Center.

Dr. Engstrom has developed focused expertise in the psychological aspects of chronic illness, with particular experience treating chronic pain and sleep disorders such as insomnia. He also provides care for anxiety, depression, and chemical dependency, drawing on motivational interviewing to support clients who struggle with getting started and staying motivated through change. His approach emphasizes practical strategies and collaboration to address both medical and emotional contributors to well-being.

With a background that spans clinical settings and medical staff roles, Dr. Engstrom integrates medical awareness into psychological care and welcomes the opportunity to work with individuals who feel his experience would be a good fit for their needs.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care with Dr. Engstrom

Dr. Engstrom uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients notice difficult thoughts and feelings without being driven by them, then clarify personal values and take committed action toward a meaningful life - ACT is often helpful for stress, anxiety, and coping with chronic health conditions.

He also applies Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a practical, skill-based approach that identifies unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns and teaches concrete strategies to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and insomnia.

Choosing the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Dr. Engstrom works collaboratively with each person to assess needs, preferences, and goals, then tailors techniques from these and other approaches to find the best fit over time.

Online sessions by video, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging make it easier to fit therapy into busy schedules and to connect when travel or mobility is limited. These options offer flexibility in timing and format so individuals can receive consistent support in ways that work for their daily life.