Marlys Rixey - PsyD, LCPC

With a Doctorate in Psychology and over 20 years of experience in the field of Health Psychology, my unique approach integrates traditional psychotherapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavioral and Humanistic therapy with therapies that enhance mind/body integration. These include mindfulness based cognitive therapy, meditation, energy medicine and qigong.

My personal experience in these techniques has helped me realize that there is never a one size fits all formula for growth and understanding and that healing begins with awareness. 

I was born and raised in the Washington DC area and obtained my undergraduate degree from the University of Maryland. I enjoy an active lifestyle - swimming, hiking, and mountain climbing. 

My passion is working in the service of others.

As a young student I explored different options and enrolled in a dance class where I was introduced to Dance Therapy, a form of psychotherapy utilizing movement interaction as a means to achieve therapeutic goals. This includes body awareness and relaxation exercises, yoga, meditation, authentic movement, improvisation and guided imagery.

This form of self awareness and self growth intrigued me and I developed an Independent Studies Degree combining Psychology, Dance Studies and Human Development.

I continued my studies in Boston where I obtained a Masters degree in the Expressive Arts as Therapy. The program was largely experiential in exploring how the arts, music, movement, and meditation are used therapeutically. An internship at New England Rehabilitation Hospital allowed me to work in the medical units with patients experiencing spinal cord injuries, chronic pain and cardiac disease. Working with cardiac patients resonated with me and the mind/body relationship and its effect on physical and mental health became my primary focus.  I therefore obtained a Doctorate in Psychology, with a focus in Behavioral Cardiology.