I earned my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Behavioral Medicine from the University of California, San Diego and San Diego State University in 1991. I have licenses to practice psychology in Nebraska and California. I have worked clinically with children and families in a variety of settings, including teen substance abuse research, therapeutic foster care, youth group homes, educational settings, and private practice.
My theoretical orientation is primarily behavioral and cognitive-behavioral, although I utilize a variety of techniques based on each individual's needs. I also have more than 25 years of experience conducting cognitive, academic, behavioral, emotional, and neuropsychological assessments with children and teens.
For 15 years, I worked full-time as the Psychologist at a Catholic elementary and middle school while also maintaining a part-time private practice. I began full-time private practice in August of 2014. My services include: in-depth assessments with children and teens (cognitive, academic, behavioral, emotional, and neuropsychological screenings); individual counseling with children and teens; consultation and support services with parents; educational planning and support with schools; and other services as needed to help each child achieve his or her full potential. I incorporate my Christian values into counseling when appropriate and requested by my clients.
I am a past and/or current member of the following professional organizations: American Psychological Association (APA); Association of Educational Therapists (AET, Allied Professional); California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT, Associate Member); California Psychological Association (CPA); and International Dyslexia Association (IDA). I have presented at many national conferences, and I am co-author on more than two dozen peer-reviewed journal articles.
ServicesCognitive testing, including for Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) and Davidson Institute for Talent Development
Psychoeducational assessments (cognitive and academic strengths and needs to facilitate educational planning)
Evaluation for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD)
Neuropsychological screenings
Emotional and behavioral assessments
Individual counseling with children and adolescents, using cognitive-behavioral and other techniques
Consultation services with parents
Educational planning and support with public, private, and Catholic schools (e.g., Diocese Learning Support Programs)
Group meetings for education and support (e.g., parent training, social skills, etc.)
Areas of ExpertiseAttention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD)
Behavioral challenges (e.g., oppositional or defiant behavior, noncompliance, school refusal, etc.)
Academic struggles related to "executive function" weaknesses (e.g., study skills, project planning, organization, time management, test-taking, etc.)
Emotional issues (e.g., depression, anxiety, etc.) and social difficulties (peer relationships)
Self-concept/self-esteem
Parenting skills/strategies