About: Dr. Julian Navarro, PhD, LCSW

Dr. Julian Navarro, PhD, LCSW, is a clinical neuropsychologist with over 18 years of experience in mental health and career counseling. A University of Oregon graduate, he specializes in psychology and therapy careers, contributing to Pacific Behavioral Insights and speaking at the Northwest Clinical Forum.

Recent Posts by Dr. Julian Navarro, PhD, LCSW

Understanding Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD): Beyond the Myths

Understanding Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD): Beyond the Myths

Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a personality disorder affecting an estimated 1-6% of the population, characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, a deep need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. Despite appearing confident, people with NPD often have fragile self-esteem that's easily threatened by criticism. There is no known cure, but long-term specialized therapy can help manage symptoms.

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Growth Mindset vs Fixed Mindset: Psychology Career Success

Growth Mindset vs Fixed Mindset: Psychology Career Success
Quick Answer A growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and effort, while a fixed mindset assumes these qualities are unchangeable. Psychology students with growth mindsets demonstrate higher academic achievement, better resilience in clinical training, and greater career advancement. Research shows developing a growth mindset significantly improves educational…
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Crisis Intervention Specialist: Salary, Education & Licensure Guide

Crisis Intervention Specialist: Salary, Education & Licensure Guide
Quick Answer Crisis intervention specialists provide immediate psychological support during acute emotional crises. Most clinical positions require a master's degree in counseling, social work, or psychology, plus state licensure (LCSW, LPC, or LMFT). Mental health counselors earn a median salary of $59,190 nationally, with strong job growth projected at 12% through 2032. When crisis strikes—whether…
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How to Become a Dance Movement Therapist (2026 Guide)

How to Become a Dance Movement Therapist (2026 Guide)
Quick Answer To become a dance movement therapist, you'll need a master's degree in mental health counseling or a related field, plus specialized training through an ADTA-approved program or alternative certification route. The R-DMT credential requires supervised clinical experience and typically takes 6-8 years, depending on your educational background and training path. Dance movement therapists…
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The Mind-Boosting Effects of Exercise on Mental Health

The Mind-Boosting Effects of Exercise on Mental Health
Quick Answer Exercise produces significant mental health benefits by altering brain chemistry and structure. Just 10 minutes of walking can immediately improve mood, while 150 minutes weekly of moderate exercise reduces depression risk by up to 45% and anxiety by 16%. Recent studies show exercise works as effectively as medication or therapy for mild-to-moderate depression,…
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Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder: Symptoms, Levels & Diagnosis

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder: Symptoms, Levels & Diagnosis
Quick Answer Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by challenges with social communication and repetitive behaviors. The spectrum includes three support levels based on severity. While autism is lifelong, early intervention and support help individuals adapt and thrive. Diagnosis uses DSM-5 criteria evaluated by licensed clinical psychologists. As autism diagnoses become more…
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Home-Based Therapy: What It Is, How It Works & How to Become a Provider

Home-Based Therapy: What It Is, How It Works & How to Become a Provider
Quick Answer Home-based therapy is mental health counseling provided in a client's home rather than a clinical office. It's typically offered by licensed therapists, social workers, or counselors for individuals who have difficulty traveling due to physical disabilities, mental health concerns, or when assessing the home environment is clinically necessary. Sessions follow the same confidentiality…
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Virtual Reality Therapy Careers: How to Work in VR Mental Health Treatment

Virtual Reality Therapy Careers: How to Work in VR Mental Health Treatment
Quick Answer Virtual reality therapy uses immersive 3D environments to treat mental health conditions like phobias, PTSD, and anxiety disorders. Research shows 60–90% success rates for VR-based exposure therapy for specific phobias, though results vary by condition and patient. To work in this growing field, you'll need a master's or doctoral degree in psychology or…
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How to Become a Neuropathologist: Career Guide, Training & Salary 2026

How to Become a Neuropathologist: Career Guide, Training & Salary 2026
Quick Answer Neuropathologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing diseases of the nervous system through tissue and laboratory analysis. The career requires 13-15 years of training: a 4-year medical degree, a 4-year pathology residency, and a 1-2 year neuropathology fellowship. Medical scientists (the BLS category that includes neuropathologists) earn a median annual salary of…
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