Maddie Pristera, M.S.

Maddie Pristera is currently a third-year doctoral student in the clinical psychology (PsyD) program at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM). Previously, she received her MS in experimental psychology and BS in psychology with a Spanish minor from Saint Joseph’s University (SJU). Maddie primarily utilizes a cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) framework in her clinical work but also integrates other evidence-based approaches, including Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), to best meet the needs of each individual client.

She is currently completing her externship at the Center for Cognitive Therapy at the University of Pennsylvania, where she conducts diagnostic assessments and completes evaluation reports based on cognitive-behavioral measures. She is also completing a second externship at Ebb and Flow Psychological Associates, where she conducts assessments for individuals pursuing assisted reproduction.

Maddie’s clinical and research interests include anxiety and mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), women’s health, and body image concerns. Maddie is also dedicated to providing affirming and inclusive care for members of the LGBTQIA+ community. She is currently working on her dissertation examining how gender minority stress can impact the presentation of obsessive-compulsive and body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) in transgender/non-binary adults. She strives to create a collaborative and compassionate environment where clients feel understood, empowered, and supported in making meaningful change. At CHH, Maddie also helps schedule new patients and provides assistance with any questions or concerns that may arise.