Michael Tartaglia, Psy.D.

(he/him)
Psychologist
Director of Clinical Operations, Psychology Specialists of Maine

About Me

There are a lot of therapists out there, so I will make an attempt to summarize myself in three succinct points: (1) I do not believe that therapy is always easy, (2) I believe it is a therapist's job to challenge you, and (3) therapeutic rapport is paramount to establishing effective therapy. If you are motivated to make changes or understand yourself better, and you seek a therapist who will support and challenge you, even when it’s hard, we will likely be good “match”.

I operate from several different clinical approaches as a psychologist. My primary perspective and approach is psychodynamic with a focus on your past, learned patterns, significant relationships, and attachment. However, I also integrate interpersonal psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral treatment, narrative therapy, and solutions focused work. I also believe that group therapy is just as important as individual therapy, so I tend to incorporate process-oriented group therapy techniques into my individual sessions and encourage my clients to participate in both solo- and group-therapy.

My Specialties

Using psychodynamic therapy I use insight-oriented work to treat mood disorders, severe and persistent mental illness, trauma, and stage-of-life changes. I primarily treat adults but also have extensive history working with adolescents and young adults. In my couples therapy work I use the Gottman Method, and I utilize Yalom process-oriented therapy as a group therapist. I have extensive experience working in college counseling centers, residential treatment, prisons, hospitals, and private practice. 

Education and Career Background

  • Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology, Antioch University

  • Pre-doctoral Internship, Southern Illinois University Counseling Center

  • M.S. in Clinical Psychology, Antioch University

  • B.A. in Psychology (minor in Political Science), Merrimack College

  • Director of Clinical Operations, Psychology Specialists of Maine (2020-present)

  • Licensed Psychologist in Maine (2019-present) with prior licenses in Virginia, District of Columbia, and Illinois (2013-2019)

  • Psychologist and EMR Director, Cornerstones of Maine (2019-2020)

  • Clinical Psychologist, The Psychotherapy Center in Virgina (2017-2019)

  • Staff Psychologist and Advisor to VP of Student Affairs, Georgetown University (2016-2017)

  • Senior Staff Psychologist, Southern Illinois University Counseling Center (2013-2016)