Dr. Anna Pollard (PSY35428) is a licensed clinical psychologist and the Clinical Director at Oceanside Mental Health where she oversees the clinical operations, ensuring the highest standards of care for clients and mentoring a multidisciplinary team of mental health professionals. She earned her PhD in Clinical Psychology with a health emphasis from the California School of Professional Psychology, an APA-accredited program.
Dr. Pollard is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and is board-certified in biofeedback through the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance (BCIA). With experience across various levels of care, she has worked extensively with individuals facing mental health challenges and co-occurring substance use disorders.
Her approach to therapy is person-centered, holistic and inclusive, integrating multicultural perspectives, spiritual dimensions, and gender-affirming care. She values “practicing what she preaches” with clients as she prioritizes her own personal recovery journey.
She has completed a two-year training in shamanic studies, as well as additional training in Buddhist psychotherapy, both of which inform her therapeutic practices.
Dr. Pollard has conducted research in neuroimaging studies related to substance use disorders and depression, as well as examining neuropsychological profiles in neurodegenerative diseases and congestive heart failure.
Her leadership reflects a commitment to evidence-based, mind-body, culturally sensitive, and integrative approaches to healing.
Outside of work, she is likely playing music, continuing to learn how to surf, volunteering with a wolf education program, hiking, going on some form of an adventure with her family, or taking it easy with her dog Nala.
