Dr. Dittner is a native of Upstate New York and graduated Binghamton University with Honors in Psychology.  Her passion for psychology and helping others began early in her academic journey. She obtained doctoral degrees in both Clinical and Developmental Psychology at the University of Maine, reflecting her interest in both understanding human development and providing therapeutic interventions.  After all that snow and cold weather, Dr. Dittner accepted an internship at Duke University Medical Center and specialized in both child clinical and medical psychology, with additional training in family systems.  Afterward, she accepted a postdoctoral fellowship and subsequent faculty position at Mayo Clinic and Mayo Medical School in Rochester, MN.  As the owner of Peak City Psychology, she has sought to build a warm and comfortable atmosphere in which the staff  are truly friends who provide effective, research-based interventions, and value a healthy work-life balance.  As a licensed psychologist in North Carolina and a member of PSYPACT, Dr. Dittner is able to provide telehealth services in over 30 states, as well as in person therapy in her Apex, NC office.

For the past 20 years, Dr. Dittner has provided comprehensive psychological assessments, therapeutic interventions, and support to individuals and families. Her clinical expertise includes working with children experiencing medical trauma and chronic illness, developmental disorders, ADHD/learning disabilities, anxiety, and other adjustment concerns. She has specific expertise in parenting stress and helping parents navigate parenting through various developmental stages.  She has a strong interest in early childhood, as well as helping parents understand themselves and develop a better understanding their children in an effort to promote healthy attachments and connections throughout childhood and adolescence. 

Dr. Dittner believes in a holistic approach to psychology, integrating developmental theories with clinical practice.  Additionally, she employs several evidence-based approaches, such as PCIT, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, and family systems therapy.  Importantly, Dr. Dittner does not view the child, adolescent, or parent as a clinical diagnosis. Rather, she thoughtfully considers the broader context of each individual’s developmental or relational challenges and impact of early life experiences.  Her work is strongly aligned with theories and practice developed by Lisa Damour, Mona Delahooke, Dan Siegel and Eve Rodsky.

Dr. Dittner's approach to therapy is characterized by empathy, warmth, and a strong belief in the importance of connection within the therapeutic relationship. She creates a safe and non-judgmental space where families can explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Through individualized treatment plans, she helps families to develop effective coping strategies, enhance their well-being, and navigate life's challenges. It is her goal for children, parents and families to reach their total potential and find true quality of life.