About Dr. Brunner

Doctor's Bio

Born and raised in Libertyville, Illinois, I received my Bachelor of Arts degree from Tulane University (New Orleans, LA) where I served on the Honor Board, was a member of the Honors Program, and received the Sigma Phi Epsilon Balanced Man Award. I then obtained my M.A. from the University of Chicago (Chicago, IL) where I specialized in Psychology and Ethics. I then integrated my research training “in the trenches” as a teacher/behavioral specialist where I worked at a school known for its groundbreaking treatment of severely abused children: The University of Chicago’s Orthogenics School.

I earned my PhD (Doctorate in the subfield of Clinical Psychology) from the University of South Florida ([USF] Tampa, FL), a nationally recognized research-based university. At USF, I worked with Charles Spielberger, PhD, ABPP, Professor Emeritus, a world renowned researcher with whom I published several articles in personality assessment. I then completed my psychological residency at the prestigious Shands Hospital, at the University of Florida. There, I continued to obtain specialized training in evidence-based treatment, assessment, and treatment of children and adolescents. I have particular interests in providing consultation to developmental, educational, and medical professionals such as several local pediatricians.

In addition, I have specialized training in the field of Clinical Psychology, while I am licensed as a Psychologist by the State of Arizona. I have worked locally as both a practicing Psychologist as well as a program consultant to St. Joseph’s Hospital where I setup the pre-surgery assessment protocol for the hospital’s bariatric program. Previously, I have worked in many schools, mental health clinics, as well as assisting in the coordination of a research laboratory in the Center for Behavioral Medicine and Health Psychology at the University of South Florida. Currently, I am completing the establishment of a measure of anger for children and adolescents called the State Trait Anger Inventory of Children (STAXI-CA)

I have particular interest and expertise in performance enhancement assessment (PEA), child/adolescent psychology, parent training and consultation, and Evidence-Based Treatment (EBT). I also have special interest in treating anger/anxiety/depression, ADHD and OCD, and in the assessment of general clinical and special education issues.

I moved with my family to Tucson in July 2004 where my wife (a native Tucsonan and Veterinarian) and myself have settled since the Old Pueblo is our favorite place on Earth. I have two children, am an avid hiker and tennis player, and when away from work I can be found enjoying the desert wildlife and weather with my family.

Vision and Philosophy

My visionary goal is to be an active participant in the ongoing evolution of healthcare and Psychology. A major influence on my value-based commitment is the renowned leader of the Institute of Healthcare Improvement, Mr. Don Berwick. To get a feel for the vision I share with Mr. Berwick, click on and read the following informative magazine article:

This magazine article makes a key point: People deserve more than a licensed professional who is technically competent. Rather, you deserve someone committed to finding the most effective approach and who tailors that approach to your personality. The impact a highly trained psychologist can have is evidenced by the fact that most sports teams and corporations hire psychologists to help them not just solve problems, but to help them achieve Excellence. This is my goal.

Mission

• Fully serve you in a comfortable, private environment
• Create a pathway to sharpen your view and give vibrancy to your life.
• Use advanced assessment to tailor an optimally effective approach to fit your unique personality and situation

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CV/Resume

Click Here to download my Curriculum Vitae/Resume.