I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Tinnitus Distress
Gain Insight • Learn Skills • Feel Better •
Gain Insight • Learn Skills • Feel Better •
Areas of Expertise
Anxiety Disorders and OCD
I know anxiety disorders inside and out. Lived experience with anxiety left me curious about the brain’s alarm system. I’ve been studying, treating, and teaching about anxiety disorders ever since. In addition to treating anxiety, I studied how treatment works in the laboratory using eye tracking and pupillometry. My deep knowledge of anxiety disorders is highly relevant to tinnitus distress, because tinnitus distress involves many of the same mechanisms. Also, I often help clients manage an anxiety disorder (or depression) that is contributing to their tinnitus distress.
Tinnitus Distress
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the leading treatment for tinnitus distress. Unfortunately, it’s not widely available in the US. After seeing the benefits of this approach firsthand in a family member, I developed a personal and scholarly interest in tinnitus distress, and sought out training from a leader in CBT and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for this unique and challenging condition. I currently provide therapy to individuals and consultation to audiology clinics. I’m also a professional provider member of the American Tinnitus Association and a founding member of the Behavioral Health Tinnitus Providers Association.
Chronic Sensations
In addition to tinnitus, I treat several other “neuroplastic” symptoms, also known as mind-body syndromes (e.g., dizziness, chronic pain, IBS). These are conditions in which the brain creates pain or other danger signals in the body in the absence of ongoing structural damage or disease. The skills for recovering from tinnitus distress apply seamlessly to other chronic sensations. Likewise, CBT for tinnitus distress can be enhanced by drawing upon additional techniques developed for chronic pain. To become competent in treating a wide array of chronic sensations, I completed advanced training in Pain Reprocessing Therapy, and continue to meet twice a month with a case consultation group, which includes medical, audiological, and psychological providers from across the Western Hemisphere.
“My approach to therapy combines a scientific understanding of the conditions I treat with a compassionate understanding of how difficult they can be.”
My Background
I earned my PhD in Clinical Psychology at Vanderbilt University, and I completed my pre-doctoral and post-doctoral training at McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, ranked the #1 psychiatric hospital by US News & World Report.
In addition to providing therapy, I am an Associate Professor of Psychology at Whitman College. Outside of work, I like to connect with my children through their latest interests (wasps, hair-braiding, etc.) and spend time in the garden with my partner.
My practice is not affiliated with Whitman College.
Endorsements
“I had the good fortune to work with Dr. Armstrong at McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School. He is highly skilled in treating anxiety disorders, providing evidence-based care with warmth, compassion, and a kind sense of humor.”
Dr. Stephanie Best
Instructor of Psychology, Harvard Medical School
Clinical Supervisor, McLean Hospital
“Dr. Armstrong has a proven track record in high-quality, evidence-based treatments for anxiety disorders. He is a kind, considerate, and thoughtful clinician and colleague. Connect with him and get started on feeling better and reducing your anxiety.”
Dr. Keneisha Sinclair-McBride
Assistant Professor of Psychology, Harvard Medical School
Attending Psychologist, Boston Children’s Hospital
“Tom is a warm, engaging, and thoughtful therapist. He is an expert in treating anxiety and mood disorders and is one of the few psychologists committed to providing CBT and ACT to clients suffering from tinnitus distress.”
Dr. Matthew Schrock
Assistant Professor of Psychology, Harvard Medical School
Co-Director of Training, McLean Hospital
