Get to Know Libby Wertz (She | Her)

Libby smiling in her office.

Psychology Intern

Elizabeth (Libby) Wertz, she/her, is a Doctoral Psychology Intern located at the UC CAPS Calhoun location. She graduated from Ohio University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and graduated from Xavier University with a Master of Arts degree. Libby is currently working toward her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) at Xavier University. Libby is working under the supervision of Dr. Aisha Evans.

Libby’s therapeutic approach is primarily informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with a strong integration of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), strengths-based, and humanistic care. She has strong interests in working with students who are experiencing anxiety, perfectionism, difficult interpersonal relationships (romantic, friends, family), challenges associated with ADHD, and exploring identity. She hopes to support clients by helping them recognize their strengths, and by making space for them to identify the type of life they want to live while also providing skills/tools to help clients achieve their goals. She actively brings awareness to the positions she holds and how this could impact the therapeutic relationship and the work. Libby values the therapeutic experience as a space where she and clients can learn from each other. She views herself as a collaborator on a client’s mental health journey where the client is the expert, and she is present as a reliable support.

When not at work, Libby is relaxing, watching tv, scrolling social media, and spending time with those she loves. She has a cat named Addie and her favorite artists are Chappell Roan, Halsey, Tate McRae, and T-Swift. When she needs to take time for herself, she moves her body through exercise (weightlifting or sometimes just a walk) or gets herself a sweet treat. Libby’s favorite meal is nachos, and she prides herself in knowing some of the best nacho spots in Cincy!

If I wasn’t in this line of work, I would be: An interior designer. I think it would be so fun to help others create and personalize their space! I find a lot of peace and comfort in being in my own safe spaces, so being trusted to help develop someone else’s through design would be really fulfilling.

Coping skills I recommend to clients that I actually use myself: Eat… sleep… move your body. I’m not my best self when I neglect these things so I understand firsthand how impactful they can be on day-to-day functioning. I also love a good deep breath and unclenching of my jaw, sometimes I carry stress in my body that I don’t recognize until I do a self-check-in.

My favorite sandwich: The #43 Chipotle Cheese Steak from Jersey Mike’s – check it out (but nachos are still better!)