D'Arienzo Psychology Blog

ASIS International GSX Speaker 2026 Setting the Standard for Armed Guard Evaluations

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

Featured Speaking Engagement Dr. D’Arienzo, GSX Speaker at GSX 2026 Setting the Standard for Armed Guard Psychological Evaluations Press Release: Dr. D’Arienzo will be presenting at GSX 2026 about setting the standard for armed guard psychological evaluations. See him in Atlanta, Georgia at the conference in September 2026. He will be comparing the Peace Officer […]

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Prescription Privileges for Specially Trained Psychologists

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

Psychologists are scientist-practitioners relying on real evidence and science when treating and evaluating patients. Adding to this training model, I want to share something I’m genuinely excited about that is both a personal and professional milestone that reflects my commitment to the evolving profession of psychology and expands what I hope to one day be able to offer patients in Florida.

In May 2026, I graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Postdoctoral Master’s Program in Clinical Psychopharmacology, an American Psychological Association’s (APA) designated program that prepares licensed psychologists for prescriptive authority in states where it is permitted. More recently (July 2026), I passed the Psychopharmacology Examination for Psychologists (PEP). The PEP is the national exam required for psychologists to pass who want to prescribe. It is an arduous test covering topics from clinical medicine, neuroscience, laboratory interpretation, general pharmacology to psychopharmacology. Passing it marks another real step forward in building advanced competency in this area. I worked my tail off to complete the program and pass the PEP while running our business, remaining active in the community and with my family, and seeing patients over the last two and a half years. My next step with psychopharmacology is to gain authority to prescribe in Louisiana and New Mexico. I will keep you updated. 

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Shark Week 2026

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

Tune in to Discovery Channel’s Shark Week on July 31, 2026 and see me, Dr. D’Arienzo, successfully treat someone suffering from Galeophobia (shark phobia) through systematic desensitization and prolonged exposure. It was an experience of a lifetime going to Marathon Key and Islamorada with Shark Week producers to be part of this series. It’s important for the public to understand that shark phobias among other phobias are common and treatable. Physical and emotional rewiring occurs with prolonged exposure coupled with acquiring the right skills (diaphragmatic breathing, positive self talk, and suspending judgement) and with the right guidance (a psychologist-led process). What an honor it was to assist in helping this individual gain the ability to now comfortably bring his family to the beach for beach vacations and to resolve his greatest fear. It was three days of intensely committed work for both of us and it was a success!

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Recovering from Infidelity

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

Infidelity creates trauma like stress similar to PTSD and relationship instability. This psychologist led guide breaks recovery into clear phases: Crisis stabilization, Trust repair, Transparency, and Rebuilding intimacy. It is recommended that couples seek professional help to navigate affair recovery especially when addiction or compulsive behavior is involved. We have expert relationship psychologists and couples therapists who can assist you today.

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From Alumni to Invited Speaker: Bringing Evidence Based Psychology Back to the Jim Moran Institute. Burnout to Bandwidth.

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

After being an Executive Vistage member for three years, in 2022, I participated in and graduated from FSU’s Jim Moran Institute’s Global Entrepreneurship program (Jacksonville, Florida), an experience that meaningfully influenced how I operate and continued to grow my psychological firm. In January 2026, I returned to JMI not as a student, but as a presenter to deliver “Burnout to Bandwidth: Evidence-Based Psychology for Entrepreneurs and Executives.” Mental performance is not a luxury for leaders. It is vital for us to both survive and prosper. Entrepreneurs and executives operate under sustained cognitive load, high uncertainty, and constant decision pressure. Research consistently shows that business owners experience higher rates of anxiety, depression, burnout, and role overload than the general population, and unmanaged stress directly impairs judgment, innovation, leadership presence, and employee retention.

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Leadership in Psychology: PSYPACT, Psychopharmacology & FPA 2025

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

Dr. Justin D’Arienzo reflects on presenting at the 2025 Florida Psychological Association Convention on PSYPACT, interstate psychology, clinical psychopharmacology and prescriptive authority, along with his continuing work in psychology leadership, advocacy and professional education.

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Empowering Texas School Safety

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

D’Arienzo Psychology partners with Texas ISDs to enhance school safety by providing psychological evaluations and MMPI testing for their Guardian Programs. Our expert services ensure armed school staff are not only physically capable but also psychologically fit for their critical role. We offer a comprehensive and efficient process to help districts create a robust and secure environment for students and faculty.

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Learning to Manage Conflict with our Florida Premarital Preparation Course

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

The Gottman’s four horseman theory uncovers four behaviors which cause conflict in couples as Dr. D’Arienzo offers antidotes and additional tools for finding a resolution. Deescalating a situation or major problem becomes easy using Dr. Gottman’s five step tool guide as well. Functional and successful couples learn how to effectively solve their problems while maintaining a committed, trusting, and secure relationship. Find out more about Florida Premarital Preparation Course!

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Benefits of Taking an Online Premarital Preparation Course

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

Getting married is a big decision, and it’s important to be prepared for the challenges and joys that come with it. An online premarital preparation course can help you and your partner build a strong foundation for your marriage. Here are some of the benefits of taking an online premarital preparation course: Flexibility: Online courses can be completed at your own pace, from the comfort of your own home. This can be especially helpful if you have busy schedules or live in a rural area. Cost-effectiveness: Online courses are typically much more affordable than traditional in-person courses.
Convenience: Online courses can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection. This means you can take the course from home, work, or even on vacation.
Privacy: Online courses offer a safe and confidential space for couples to discuss personal topics.
Quality: Online courses are often taught by experienced professionals like psychologists who are experts in marriage and family counseling.
If you’re thinking about getting married, an online premarital preparation course is a great way to start your journey to a happy and healthy marriage.
Here are some of the topics that are typically covered in an online premarital preparation course: Communication: Effective communication is essential for any successful relationship. In an online premarital preparation course, you’ll learn how to communicate effectively with your partner, both verbally and non-verbally. Conflict resolution: Conflict is a normal part of any relationship. In an online premarital preparation course, you’ll learn how to resolve conflict in a healthy and productive way. Finances: Money is a major source of stress for many couples….

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Government & Public Safety Psychological Evaluations

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

D’Arienzo Psychology and PsychFit Systems provide scalable psychological evaluations for law enforcement, armed security, government agencies and other high-risk public-safety positions nationwide.

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