Denise Walker, PhD

Denise Walker, PhD, is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in treating substance use and addictions utilizing evidence-based and state-of-the art treatments. She is the co-developer of the Teen Marijuana Check-Up, an evidence-based practice to reduce cannabis use and has developed and tested interventions for substance abuse, cannabis use disorders and other risky behaviors. Dr. Walker is an internationally recognized expert in cannabis interventions. She completed her predoctoral internship at Yale University and received her Ph.D. from the University of New Mexico. Dr. Walker is also a Research Professor at the University of Washington’s School of Social Work and is the Director of the Innovative Programs Research Group.

Dr. Walker offers individual psychological services for a variety of concerns exclusively via tele-health (video conferencing). Dr. Walker’s areas of clinical specialty include:

Motivational Interviewing for a variety of behavioral health issues including cannabis use, substance use, and health behaviors

Consultation for family members related to a loved one’s substance use

Supportive psychotherapy for those in recovery

Cognitive Behavioral Interventions for substance use, depression, anxiety, and life transitions

Dr. Walker offers evidence-based therapies and is trained in cognitive-behavioral treatments (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), Relapse Prevention, and the Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT) approach. Dr. Walker also offers brief “check-ups” to help individuals who are contemplating but not yet committed to change.

She is the co-author of “What About Marijuana: An Interactive Journal” (2020) with Dr. William Miller. She is a sought-after trainer and has provided dozens of professional workshops on early interventions for substance use (including cannabis), motivational interviewing, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. She was trained as a trainer of Motivational Interviewing in 2001 and has been a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers since that time.

Dr. Walker can be reached by emailing: denisewalkerphd@gmail.com.

Insurance: Does not accept

Age Groups & Modalities: Adolescents, Adults,

Specializations: Addictions, Health and Wellness, Depression, Anxiety, and Life Transitions 

Locations: Remote