Dr. Robin Wachs

I wanted to be a psychologist for as long as I remember!  After getting my Bachelor’s from SUNY Binghamton,  I attended Yeshiva University (Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology), where I earned my Master’s and Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology. While at Yeshiva University, I was co-editor of the research journal, for the graduate school. After graduating, I interned at Hall-Brooke Psychiatric Hospital, in Westport, CT, on the grounds of what is now St. Vincent’s Behavioral Health Services. I then took the state licensing exam and became a Licensed Clinical Psychologist.

After working as a Psychologist for a short time, I received an offer to work as a Medical Editor and Writer in New York City. Pursuing this path, fulfilled my complementary interest in Medical Education. In particular, I am fascinated by the interactions between the brain and the body.  After two years, working as a Medical Editor/Writer for a marketing agency, I left to pursue other spheres of medical communications, working as a freelance Medical Writer, and later as a Medical Speaker.

After this foray into medical communications, I returned to clinical practice in 1993. For several years, I worked as a Clinical Psychologist, until my children’s need for a full-time parent at home, became compelling. Specifically, my youngest child was battling a chronic illness, which required substantial practical and emotional attention. Diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis as a young child, my son spent most of his childhood struggling with this disease. It has been the single most heartbreaking circumstance of my life, and also the most strengthening!

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In an effort to cope, I sought out mindfulness and yoga. At the same time, I became actively involved in the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation. My involvement as a Volunteer, Board Member and Support Group Founder and Facilitator, was invaluable. Currently, I serve on the Healthcare Professional Engagement Committee (HPEC) for the Connecticut/Westport Chapter of the Foundation.

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My personal and professional journey has concretized my interest in working with people affected by chronic illness. I am particularly knowledgeable about the emotional, cognitive and behavioral aspects of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). While I treat a broad adult population, I virtually always have some clients who are coping with issues related to chronic illness. In adversity, there is also opportunity for growth and strength!  It is this belief, that fuels my optimism, and guides my practice.

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