BA, Washington University in St. Louis
Max Bergner received his Bachelor’s degree in Psychological and Brain Sciences from Washington University, where he conducted several research projects on the etiology and treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). In addition, Max has researched the neurological correlates of OCD, with a specific interest in the structural and functional alterations observed in MRI studies. Max has experience working with children in various settings who have a broad range of behavioral and educational needs. Before working at the Anxiety Institute, Max tutored children with developmental delays, learning disabilities, and behavioral challenges. Over the course of his life, he has been a staunch advocate of empirically supported cognitive behavioral therapy CBT interventions, and the benefits of combining cognitive reappraisal and mindfulness techniques. During his time at Anxiety Institute, Max has developed a virtual reality exposure therapy program which enables clients to immerse themselves in contexts that would not otherwise be accessible. In addition, Max works on collecting and aggregating the data which informs our measurement-based care and is disseminated via our Clinical Outcomes Report.
As an avid long-distance runner and baseball fanatic, Max has a keen interest in sports analytics and youth coaching, specifically the relationship between psychological health, team cohesion, and athletic performance. Max plans to pursue an advanced clinical degree to serve adolescents and families struggling with anxiety, OCD, and other mental health challenges.
His Inspiration:
As someone who has participated in exposure therapy myself, my personal experience brings an abundance of empathy and authenticity to my coaching relationship. I describe my coaching role in supporting a teenager’s treatment of anxiety as my fuel to energize and inspire my client’s commitment to recovery.