Dr. Isabella Kahhale
Postdoctoral Clinician
Can see patients in PA in person and telehealth
GET TO KNOW ME
I am a developmental and clinical postdoctoral psychology resident psychology intern who provides evidence-based treatment to adolescents, young adults, adults, and families. As a Lebanese-American daughter of immigrants, I strive to create a culturally responsive and identity-affirming space where clients feel seen, respected, and empowered. I believe that every person is the expert on their own life, and I work collaboratively with clients to build on their strengths while helping them navigate life’s challenges. Outside of therapy, I enjoy staying active through rowing, running, and attempting to play tennis. I also love reading (especially audiobooks, and especially ones narrated by the author), traveling, writing, and spending time with my two very fluffy cats – photos available upon request! Having recently relocated to Philadelphia, I am always eager for recommendations from the city's vibrant food scene.
Education
Predoctoral Intern McLean Hospital / Harvard Medical School
Child & Adolescent Emotion Dysregulation and Dialectical Behavior Therapy Track
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) University of Pittsburgh
Developmental and Clinical Psychology
Minor: Quantitative Psychology
Bachelor of Science Tufts University
Cognitive and Brain Sciences
Minors: English; Ethics, Law, and Society
Expertise and Training
I specialize in helping adolescents, young adults, and families navigate emotion dysregulation, self-harm, suicidality, trauma, anxiety, depression, and interpersonal challenges. I am passionate about working with high-conflict families, parent-teen relationships, and emotion dysregulation in adolescents. My primary treatment approach is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I completed advanced training through the Harvard Medical School/McLean Hospital 3East DBT Partial Hospitalization Program, a nationally recognized treatment program for adolescents and young adults experiencing severe emotion dysregulation and self-destructive behaviors. In addition to DBT, I provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and have received specialized training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Alternatives for Families: A Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (AF-CBT). I have been fortunate to train directly with the developers of both treatments. Alongside my clinical work, I conduct research at the University of Pennsylvania focused on understanding how childhood trauma shapes development and how evidence-based mental health treatments can be made more accessible and effective for the people who need them most.