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Ruth McKercher, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist practicing in San Diego. She received her Ph.D .in 2003 from the San Diego campus of California School of Professional Psychology. Ruth has been working in the field of mental health since 1989. Her work has taken her to residential treatment facilities for teenagers, crisis centers, psychiatric hospitals, community clinics, clinical trial coordination and back to private practice. Her primary practice has been in the treatment of depression, and anxiety disorders. Over the years she has had a special interest in Manic Depressive illness. Her dissertation was on the role of insight in the self-report of manic symptoms for those individuals experiencing a manic episode. Dr. McKercher uses experienced based practices, whenever possible, when working with individuals in therapy. She is familiar with the 12-Steps works with those committed to their recovery. She has received training in Cognitive Therapy, Contemporary Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Family Therapy and holds a certificate in Older Adult Mental Health.
Suicide is always of interest to psychologists working with people who suffer from depression and mania. Ruth is also interested in the effects on community and family when a loved one, friend or acquaintance is lost to suicide. Prevention of suicide has been a primary focus of her work with individuals. The recent increase in suicide rates in the military has created a new area of interest for Dr. McKercher - Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Recently, she has received training in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and EMDR. Helping people to develop resiliency following horrific experiences, including suicide loss, is an ongoing goal of her work.
Ruth has been in private practice for the past four years. However, her primary work for the past 2 ½ years has been as the clinical supervisor for Heritage Clinic. She works with adults of all ages, adolescents and a select number of children 10+.
Family life
Ruth and her husband Scott have been married for 38 years. They currently live with three cats and two dogs. Together they have raised two sons and one daughter. They are currently enjoying their first grandchild. Interests in the family range from yoga and surfing to mountain climbing and desert racing. Sharing family time is precious.
Professional Organizations
Dr. McKercher is a member of the San Diego Psychological Association, the California Psychological Association, the American Psychological Association and serves on the Board for the San Diego Chapter of Survivors of Suicide Loss (SOSL).
CONTACT US at (858) 259-0599 for an appointment.
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