David Pennington, Ph.D. 
​​(he/him)

Licensed Psychologist #PSY29603

With over 15 years of experience, Dr. David L. Pennington is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in culturally responsive, evidence-based care for individuals navigating complex personal and systemic challenges. A first-generation college graduate from a rural, multicultural community in southwestern New Mexico, Dr. Pennington's mixed-race heritage—Indigenous, Hispanic, Japanese, and white—shaped his commitment to advocating for equitable mental health care. These personal experiences inspire his 

work with clients who are navigating trauma, addiction, the imposter phenomenon, and significant life transitions.
Dr. Pennington has spent much of his career working with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). In these roles, he specialized in addiction treatment, trauma-informed care, and co-occurring conditions like PTSD, chronic pain, and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Over his extensive tenure, he provided care to marginalized communities, including Native and rural populations, and developed programs to improve access to mental health services. His clinical work is complemented by a strong research background, with over 30 peer-reviewed articles and more than 80 presentations at national and international conferences. Dr. Pennington’s research focuses on creating innovative tools and therapies to improve emotional well-being and resilience.
Dr. Pennington’s approach empowers clients to align their strengths and values with actionable steps toward a more fulfilling life. Whether you’re healing from systemic challenges, navigating major life transitions, or managing the complexities of success, Dr. Pennington offers a collaborative and supportive space to help you thrive.

How I work...

• ​I provide collaborative, evidence-based, and culturally attuned therapy. My goal is to create a safe, affirming space where you feel supported in exploring your experiences and building a meaningful path forward.
• Many of the challenges we face are rooted in external factors—systemic barriers, cultural expectations, or environmental stressors. Together, we work not only on building your internal resilience and coping skills but also on navigating and, where possible, improving the environments that impact your well-being.
• I specialize in evidence-based approaches, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and mindfulness-based interventions. These techniques are tailored to your needs and help with emotional regulation, self-confidence, and navigating transitions.
• I work with clients facing a wide range of challenges, from overcoming systemic inequities and healing from trauma to managing imposter phenomena, building practical skills like planning and organization, examining relationships with substances, and navigating the stress of high-pressure careers. Together, we identify practical steps to align your strengths and values with sustainable, positive change.
• I believe therapy is a partnership rooted in trust and mutual respect. My approach is collaborative, meeting you where you are and empowering you to find clarity, confidence, and meaningful growth.
• Exploring how intersections of identity, culture, and lived experience shape your perspective and influence your relationships and challenges is helpful. We can uncover meaningful insights that foster resilience and transformation by understanding these layers.
• I provide online Therapy for Adults (18+)
  • $300 per 45-50 minute individual therapy session ​

Phone Consult

Before the first appointment, we offer a free 5-10 minute phone consultation with administrative staff. We will talk in order to see if the therapist is a good fit for what you are looking for in a counselor.