Peter Thunfors, PhD

I’m glad you’re here. This website offers a quick glimpse into my practice and approach, If you have any questions or are considering starting therapy, feel free to reach out— I’m happy to help. I am a clinical psychologist dedicated to serving young adults, adolescents, children, and their families. I obtained a PhD from the University of Virginia, completed internship training at Temple University Hospital, and did my BA at Wake Forest University. I am an Assistant Professor Psychiatry at UMass Medical School - Baystate. My therapeutic approach is tailored to each individual's preferences and needs. I often use cognitive behavioral therapy in my practice, including elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and the Unified Protocol, as well as traditional CBT. Although my work is often rooted in these evidence based treatment models, I believe that the strength of the therapeutic relationship is more important to fostering meaningful change than any specific therapeutic technique. My goal is to create an atmosphere that is warm, empathic, genuine, accepting, and growth focused. FAQS Q: Does Dr. Thunfors accept insurance? I am currently paneled with Blue Cross/Blue Shield. If you have another health insurance plan with out-of-network benefits, I am able to provide a superbill if you plan to seek reimbursement from your insurance provider. Q: How long does the therapy process take? A: I work at times within a more structured, targeted approach in which the aim is to achieve goals within 12-20 sessions, but I also have the flexibility to do longer-term work as well. I also offer brief, 2-3 session solution-focused parenting consultations for feedback and recommendations around specific areas of concern. Q: Are appointments in-person or telehealth? In-person appointments are available at my office in downtown Northampton. Video and phone sessions are also options. It is possible to switch back and forth between telehealth and in-person visits if that flexibility is helpful with your schedule. Q: What appointment times are available? The schedule evolves over time, but currently it is a M-F schedule with 9am-5pm appointment times available. Q: Are there any services that would not be the right fit for Dr. Thunfors's practice? Although I work with issues affecting young children, I primarily do so through parenting consultation and do not provide play therapy. If substance use and addiction issues are the primary area of concern, I don't have specialized training or treatment expertise in this area. Couples therapy is another area in which I don't have specialized training. My current practice is primarily focused on therapeutic services and does not include neuropsychological testing. Q: What is different about the treatment process for anorexia? I have a limited number of spots available for Family Based Treatment for eating disorders. Families interested in doing FBT must be able to attend weekly appointments at the outset of treatment and must also willing to participate in multidisciplinary care in collaboration with dietitian and physician support through the Eating Disorder Clinic at Baystate Medical Center.