Dr. Shirley Impellizzeri is an American clinical psychologist, author, and media personality known for her psychological expertise and insightful commentary. She has appeared as an expert on numerous popular television programs, including Sex Rehab with Dr. Drew, Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew, Bravo Channel’s Workout, VH1’s Hollywood Exes, The Doctors, the Univision Spanish language show, Mujer Today and contributed as the Sex, Love, and Relationship expert for Cosmopolitan Latina magazine. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she spent formative high school years in her parents’ native Argentina, immersing herself in Latin culture and developing a passion for psychology.

Dr. Shirley earned her PhD in psychology from UCLA, while she conducted critical child abuse investigations for the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services. Her extensive experience inspired a deep interest in how childhood trauma shapes emotional and psychological development, leading her to explore and train in Somatic Experiencing®, a body-centered therapeutic approach developed by Dr. Peter A. Levine.

Additionally, Dr. Shirley is a Qualified Medical Examiner (QME) licensed psychologist who is certified by the California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) to conduct medical-legal evaluations for workers’ compensation cases involving psychological injuries.

In her Beverly Hills private practice, Dr. Shirley integrates traditional talk therapy with somatic techniques through her holistic “Connect the Dots” method, guiding individuals, couples, and families to understand and heal past traumas. She has authored two influential books, Why Can’t I Change? How to Conquer Your Self-Destructive Patterns and Scared Speechless: 9 Ways to Overcome Your Fears and Captivate Your Audience.
Additionally, Dr. Shirley has been a sought-after guest on several mental health podcasts and has co-hosted the popular podcast Both Sides Now: Two Perspectives, One World, exploring the intersection between psychology and spirituality.

Dr. Shirley remains active in media and continues her advocacy for mental health awareness and holistic healing including recent work with a technology company to expand therapy services for couples integrating AI, launching a Latin focused website, Healthy Mente and developing a mental wellness arts program with a prominent US theatrical organization. She is fluent in English and Spanish.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Psychologist, licensed by the State of California, Board of Psychology

Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) certified by Somatic Experiencing Trauma Institute

Qualified Medical Evaluator (Q.M.E.) certified by the State of California, Dept. of Industrial Relations