Hygge Psych
About Dr. Hickey
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Hickey is a compassionate and experienced clinical psychologist with over 12 years of therapeutic practice, dedicated to guiding adults through their journey of personal growth and healing. She specializes in serving marginalized and BIPOC communities, offering culturally informed support for depression, anxiety, trauma, identity conflicts, and perinatal and maternal mental health, including infertility and reproductive challenges. Licensed in California and Pennsylvania, Dr. Hickey is in-network with Medicare, TriCare, and Aetna, ensuring accessible care for diverse clients.
As a member of the Mental Health Professional Group (MHPG) at the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, Dr. Hickey brings advanced expertise to reproductive and perinatal mental health. She holds a post-doctoral specialization in Adult Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy from the San Diego Psychoanalytic Center, where she mentors emerging clinicians, reflecting her commitment to ongoing professional development and therapeutic innovation. She also completed the Fertility Counseling Postgraduate Course, enhancing her ability to support individuals facing reproductive challenges.
Beyond her clinical work, Dr. Hickey is passionate about mental health advocacy. She is the author of children’s books promoting mental health awareness and celebrating biracial identity, highlighting her dedication to supporting individuals across all ages and backgrounds.
At the core of Dr. Hickey’s practice is a belief in the transformative power of the therapeutic relationship. By creating a safe and collaborative space, she empowers clients to engage in self-discovery, heal from past wounds, and foster meaningful change. Whether navigating relationship challenges, life transitions, or seeking to improve overall well-being, Dr. Hickey is here to support you every step of the way.
Postgraduate Training, Specializations, and Roles
License Information
California Board of Psychology PSY30683
Pennsylvania Board of Psychology PS020464
Professional Memberships
Adjunct Professor
California School of Professional Psychology- San Diego
Area of Research
Research focuses on microaggressions against biracial individuals that occur within the family/community.
American Psychological Association
San Diego Psychoanalytic Center
Greater Pittsburgh Psychological Association
Society for the Advancement of Psychotherapy- Diversity, Social Justice & Public Policy
American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) - Mental Health Professional Group
Fertility and Reproductive Counseling
Fertility Counseling Postgraduate Course - Sharon Covington, MSW and Linda Applegarth, EdD
Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy
Post-doctoral specialization in Adult Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy from the San Diego Psychoanalytic Center
About Dr. Emily Essid
Licensed Clinical Psychologist PSY34868
Dr. Emily Essid, Psy.D., a compassionate and dedicated psychologist specializing in supporting adults through individual and couples therapy. With a heartfelt commitment to her clients' well-being, Dr. Essid brings a nurturing touch to her practice, enriched by her post-doctoral specialization in infertility/reproductive issues and maternal mental health. She's also currently immersed in the warmth of completing a specialization in the Fertility Counseling Postgraduate Course training program.
Drawing from her experience and training, including a Fellowship at the San Diego Psychoanalytic Center, Dr. Essid tailors her approach to each individual's unique journey. Through heartfelt connections and a deep understanding of evidence-based modalities such as Psychodynamic Theory and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, she guides her clients towards healing and growth.
At the heart of Dr. Essid's practice lies a genuine desire to foster a space of trust and acceptance. She listens attentively, offering empathy and understanding, while gently supporting her clients through their challenges. Infusing her sessions with warmth and humor, Dr. Essid creates an environment where her clients feel not just heard, but truly seen.
Dr. Essid's areas of expertise extend to depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship dynamics, and identity exploration, alongside her focus on infertility/reproductive issues and maternal mental health. Her research experience includes a dedicated focus on sexual trauma, reflecting her commitment to understanding and supporting survivors through their healing journey.
In 2024, Dr. Essid completed the Fertility Counseling Postgraduate training taught by Course Kristy Koser, PhD and Laura Covington, PhD
With a multicultural background and fluency in French, Dr. Essid embraces cultural diversity and understanding. She warmly invites individuals and couples to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing, knowing that within her care, they will find not just support, but a compassionate ally on their path to well-being.
About Dr. Alison Wexler
License Clinical Psychologist PSY35918
Dr. Alison Wexler is a licensed psychologist in California and brings diverse clinical experience from her work at Alpine Special Treatment Center, Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility, and the Institute on Violence, Abuse, and Trauma. Dr. Wexler is also a member of the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals, reflecting her commitment to ongoing professional growth. She earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University (AIU), San Diego. Specializing in trauma-informed therapy, Dr. Wexler is knowledgeable and affirming in working with LGBTQ+ populations. She is trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches, including CBT, DBT, ACT, Psychoanalytic Therapy, and Prolonged Exposure Therapy. Dr. Wexler tailors her treatment plans to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual client, ensuring personalized and effective care.
About Dr. Camila Zager
Registered Psychological Associate
Camila Zager, Psy.D. earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology (CSPP) at Alliant International University, San Diego. She practices psychodynamic psychotherapy and modifies treatment to meet the needs of each individual or couple by integrating interventions from DBT, ACT, EFT, mentalization, existential psychology, and Buddhist philosophy. She has extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, relationships, grief, loss, life transitions, trauma, and identity exploration.
** Registered Psychological Associate: This is a term designated for clinicians advanced in their clinical training, but who are not yet licensed and able to provide services independently. They are working towards their final requirements for licensure, are supervised by Dr. Azita Hickey directly, and are employees of her independent practice. They have been thoroughly screened and registered through the Board of Psychology for this position.
About Claudia Miranda, M.A.
Registered Psychological Associate
Claudia Miranda is currently a doctoral candidate at The Wright Institute. As a first-generation student and daughter of immigrants, Claudia is passionate about amplifying the voices of historically silenced communities in both her clinical and professional work. Claudia's advocacy efforts include aiding in the development of recruitment and retention initiatives for historically underrepresented students, enhancing the support and training of Latine clinicians, and co-founding the NCSPP Student of Color Council.
Her clinical experience and training include providing individual therapy in Spanish and English at community-based organizations, private practice, and college counseling centers. Her approach to therapy is collaborative and grounded in exploring and building awareness and work arounds for the many things that influence how we think and act. Her clinical interests include intergenerational trauma, identity development, understanding complex family dynamics, ADHD, and LGBTQ+ related concerns. Throughout her training experiences, Claudia has learned to draw strength from her community cultural wealth and strives to empower others to do the same.
Throughout our lives we experience different things that can lead to blindspots in our understanding of ourselves. Therapy can help us shed light on these blindspots and the impact they have had on us. Claudia’s goal as a therapist is to help you understand yourself, and any possible blindspots, better. Her values as a therapist are rooted in her cultural identity and include authenticity, community, and transparency.
** Registered Psychological Associate: This is a term designated for clinicians advanced in their clinical training, but who are not yet licensed and able to provide services independently. They are working towards their final requirements for licensure. Claudia Miranda is supervised by Dr. Emily Essid directly. They have been thoroughly screened and registered through the Board of Psychology for this position.
Services Offered
With You Every Step of the Way
Individual Psychotherapy
A Happier, Healthier You
Couples Therapy
Relearning how relate to your partner
Video Psychotherapy
Telehealth allows you to develop skills and get the help you need from the comfort of your own home
HYGGE
noun [hue-guh/ hoo-ga]
Hygge is a feeling of coziness and comfort, creating a sense of well-being, contentment, celebrating the every day, and belonging to the moment. Hygge, in its beautiful simplicity, evokes in us a desire to slow down to pull away from the clutches of busyness, and to slip into an atmosphere of restful content. This is where we unwind; where we recover; where we recuperate. It is where we reconnect with our loved ones and with ourselves.
All About Therapy
According to the American Psychological Association, “Psychologists help people of all ages live happier, healthier and more productive lives.” Through the use of various psychotherapy methods and collaborative treatment measures, my patients develop life-changing habits to help them cope with any of life’s various obstacles. My therapy sessions are designed to dissect personal issues and provide patients with effective tools to help them see the glass half full instead of half empty.
Help Center
Are you accepting new clients?
Yes, we are currently accepting new client.
How long does each therapy session take?
The initial session is generally 55 mins, while following appointments are 45 mins.
I have an unpredictable schedule, is that ok?
Appointments can be scheduled and rescheduled online using Hygge Psych's client portal. You will also have the option of video telehealth if you are unable to get to the office.
Can I use my insurance?
We accept a number of insurances, including:
Medicare
TriCare; TriWest
Aetna HMO & PPO plans
Most PPO insurances as an out-of-network provider (including Anthem, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Cigna, Magellan, United, FSA, HSA accounts)
Do you offer sliding scale rates?
Limited low fee slots available based on need
What is a Registered Psychological Associate?
This is a term designated for clinicians advanced in their clinical training, but who are not yet licensed and able to provide services independently. They are working towards their final requirements for licensure, are supervised by a licensed clinical psychologist. They have been thoroughly screened and registered through the Board of Psychology for this position.
Are you offering in-person sessions?
We are only offering telehealth sessions at this time.
Contact Me
If you are interested in becoming a new patient, please email or send a message using the website form here. Voicemails pertaining to new patient inquiries will not be returned.
San Diego, California 92129
Sewickley, Pennsylvania 15143
619.880.9008