Jennifer G. Pearlstein, PhD
Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Researcher, and Scholar
About Jen
Jennifer Pearlstein, Ph.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist, researcher, and scholar. Dr. Pearlstein is a clinical assistant professor at Washington University in St. Louis in the Pain Management Center through the Department of Anesthesiology. She completed her Ph.D. in Clinical Science from the University of California, Berkeley, and her post-doctoral fellowship at the University of Washington in Rehabilitation Medicine. She strives to improve mental healthcare through clinical practice, research, writing, and advocacy.
Clinical Work
Dr. Pearlstein is committed to helping individuals navigate the complex intersection of physical and emotional well-being. With a deep understanding of the impacts of chronic pain, Dr. Pearlstein specializes in evidence-based interventions aimed at empowering individuals to manage their pain and reclaim their quality of life.
Dr. Pearlstein provides tailored psychotherapy services focused on addressing the challenges of each person, and offers unique expertise in living with chronic pain, illness, and disability. With extensive experience in individual and group-based psychotherapy spanning adolescents through older adults, Dr. Pearlstein is adept in various evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Her approach is rooted in compassion, empathy, and a genuine desire to support individuals on their journey towards healing, growth, and resilience.
With a commitment to inclusivity and cultural humility, Dr. Pearlstein strives to create a safe and affirming space for individuals from all walks of life. She believes in the power of collaboration and partnership, working closely with her clients to develop personalized treatment plans that honor their values, strengths, and aspirations.
Dr. Pearlstein aims to inspire hope, resilience, and a renewed sense of possibility in those facing the challenges of chronic pain, illness, or disability, as well as those experiencing other mental health concerns.
Research
Dr. Pearlstein's program of research has included work on (1) basic mechanisms of psychopathology; (2) treatment development and implementations science, and (3) disability characteristics and mental health outcomes. She is interested in why people struggle under stress and how to intervene to improve mental health outcomes. Ultimately, she strives to use science to identify how to enhance mental health and increase access to care.
Other Interests
Dr. Pearlstein's motivation to improve mental healthcare is motivated by values of social justice, equity, and inclusion. She serves in a number of roles professionally and personally that involve advocacy for underrepresented populations.One such avenue is writing about experiences as a disabled woman to increase awareness about blindness and ableism.
Outside of work, Dr. Pearlstein enjoys time with family and friends, delicious food, exploring the outdoors, and listening to books and podcasts.
