
Alexandra Salerno
Therapist & Consultant
Hi, I'm Alex & I'm glad you're here.
When I get asked "what got you into your career," there are two answers. Dance and the mind. I have always been fascinated with athletes and the ability to perform at high levels. It's amazing what the body can be trained to do.
The brain is fascinating.
From my dance career, I learned that training your brain is as important as training your body.
If you're wanting to whip out four pirouettes, not only do you think about lifting your knee, pulling up through your leg, using your back and spot a non-moving target...you also visualize your turns and trust your body to do what it needs to do. You focus on positive thinking. You are confident. And you are the best athlete you can be in that moment.
"Dance and the mind" have continued to be an influence in the work that I do now, and the work I plan to do in the future. Even when things appear to be out-of-sync, there is rhythm and a lifetime of performances.
SKILLS & EXPERTISE
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I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) within the state of PA
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I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and hold a certification through the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC)
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I am a member of the following organizations:
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American Counseling Association (ACA)
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APA Division 47: Society for Sport, Exercise & Performance Psychology
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APA Division 44: Society for Psychology of Sexual Orientation & Gender Diversity
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International Association for Dance Medicine & Science (IADMS)
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I have extensive experience within the performance and dance world (performing, choreographing, teaching)
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
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I have been a guest speaker and discussion panelist for Chatham, University of Pittsburgh, Point Park University, Robert Morris University, Children's Hospital, Western Psychiatric Hospital and NAMI Keystone PA.
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I have presented at OERP for training and educational opportunities.
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I worked for Holland America Line for three contracts & tours (Alaska, Europe, South America).
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In 2020, I was nominated for the Millennium Who's Who Award.
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I had the opportunity to be a part of Dance Spirit Magazine; 2018.
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I collaborated on an article for Dance Teacher Magazine; 2021.
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I received the Making a Difference Award through Western Psychiatric Hospital, 2018.
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I was nominated for the Virginia Kaufman Scholarship award in 2017.
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I have supported numerous athletes in working towards learning the skills to exceed at their sport.
