Welcome! I am a clinical child psychologist specializing in early childhood mental health. I accept new patients ages 3 through 8 years old. Please browse this site to learn about my background, services, and approaches to helping young children.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Office Move: Dr. Beth's office is relocating one mile
north at the end of December. See the "Contact Info tab" for details.
Media: Dr. Beth recently appeared on Channel 3 TV.
See "Dr. Beth News" tab for links.
PHILOSOPHY of CARE
Young children are the primary focus of my work, because "that's where my hope lies" as a child psychologist. In the toddler, preschool & early elementary years, staggering amounts of change and growth unfold. It is immeasurably easier to make positive changes earlier in life, when developmental paths are flexible.
A thriving child enjoys relationships, learns and remembers, meets and survives challenge, self-regulates intense feelings, feels inner competence, and has mental room for joy and creativity. Many of the children I meet are struggling to thrive. Their parents are exhausted, despairing, angry, and out of answers.
Daily, my central task is to distinguish typical phases of development from what may be emerging larger problems. To solve the unique puzzle of each child, I initiate a respectful, down to earth collaboration. Parents' intimate knowledge of their own child meets my developmental toolbag. Together, we blend perspectives of teachers, physicians, and other providers to create a comprehensive treatment plan for your child. Children enjoy my office, which offers a warm playroom environment. Wanting to return here is the first step toward having more "better days."
EDUCATION & ACTIVITIES
As a Clinical Child Psychologist, I am trained in therapy, testing, and research. My doctorate from the University of Florida was followed by two post-doctoral fellowships: at Indiana University, and St. Joseph's Hospital & Medical Center in Phoenix. I am a Licensed Psychologist in Arizona.
My career has included clinical service, teaching, professional presentations, consultation and media appearances. Additional activities diversify my work:
- Head Start: Consulting Psychologist for the Mental Health program, City of Phoenix (2002-2008)
- University of Phoenix: faculty member, Master of Counseling program (1999 to 2007)
- Clinical Consultation: to local agencies
- Public Speaking: to pediatric & psychiatry residents/local groups on early childhood issues.
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