About Me

-Dr. Derek Ream

Psychologist | Consultant

My “Origin” Story

I embarked on my initial role as a staff psychologist right after completing my residency, simultaneously venturing into my first private practice on the side—an endeavor that unfortunately met its demise. Disheartened and increasingly frustrated, I redirected my focus to my day job, realizing that my professional identity was just one facet of my multifaceted self. Money, prestigious titles, or affiliations with renowned organizations couldn’t fill the void within me. Recognizing the absence of the career I truly desired, I understood that I had to forge it myself.
My tenure in a stagnant role within a government agency that shall remain nameless marked a turning point. The workload was overwhelming, the compensation subpar, the patient demographic not to my liking, and the bureaucratic hurdles insurmountable. Despite 15 years of education, residency, and post-doc training, coupled with substantial student loan debt and geographical relocations, my efforts went underappreciated. More significantly, I found myself out of alignment with my core values and passions.
Upon returning to Texas from Ohio with my husband, I transitioned to a new job. Over 11 months, I juggled my full-time position while simultaneously constructing and expanding a primarily insurance-based online solo private practice. Tackling challenges one by one, I shaped my practice to align with my envisioned brand, benefiting prospective patients that I desired to work with. The solo practice evolved into a group practice, complete with hired contractors—now known as Sugar Land Psychological Associates.
Opting to leave my full-time job in favor of dedicating myself entirely to private practice, I discovered that I could earn three times more in an hour than my previous job, even with insurance-based billing. This newfound flexibility allowed me to work less, on my terms, and in locations of my choosing. I tailored my practice to reflect my values, choosing patients I resonated with and practicing in a manner that felt authentic. The transition significantly reduced my stress, resentment, and fatigue, enabling me to be more present and supportive with my patients. Beyond professional benefits, private practice granted me the freedom to spend quality time with family and friends, indulge in travel, and pursue my passions—a parallel focus to the holistic approach I encourage in my patients.
Private practice is much more than just earning a certain amount of money – it’s about crafting a quality of life that enables and enhances your professional pursuits and personal passions.

My Portfolio

Building & Polishing Practices

I’ve helped numerous current and would-be private practitioners begin and polish their practice’s websites, marketing approaches, and overall practice operations, spanning across multiple states.

Empowering Politicians

I’ve helped local politicians craft a marketing plan and designed their websites leading to successful election and re-election.

Music Brand Transformation

I’ve helped numerous musicians and piano stores re-invent their brand, websites, and overall marketing strategies leading to increased visibility, rendered services, leads and sales.

My Credentials

Education

Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology

Albizu University

Master of Science (M.S.) in Psychology

Albizu University

Master of Science (M.S.) in Applied Cognition and Neuroscience

The University of Texas at Dallas

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Sociology

University of North Texas

Associate of Arts (A.A.) in General Studies

Collin College

Licensure

Licensed Psychologist

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Licensed Psychologist

State Board of Psychology, State of Ohio

Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology

Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact Commission

Training

Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Clinical Psychology

Chalmers P. Wylie Veterans Affairs Ambulatory Care Center

Internship in Health Service Psychology

Chillicothe Veterans Affairs Medical Center