I specialize in child psychology. I am a developmental psychology nerd, with a goal to understand the ever-changing brain at each stage of life and what this means for behavior and emotional difficulties. A child psychologist needs to have patience, insight, and the ability to intuit underlying fears and distress, because children are not always able to voice these concerns. In this way, a psychologist is a translator of the inner world of the child, someone who can create a bridge to a less chaotic and more joyful home life, school life, and social life. A particular area of interest is helping parents navigate the confusing and, sometimes, stormy world of parenting. I love getting to the bottom of meltdowns, anxiety, irritability, and hurdles in learning.
I also love working with adults in individual therapy. The type of therapy I offer includes delving into one’s history for the sake of gaining a better sense of self, to find more joy and meaning in relationships and work. In my work with clients, I am usually described as warm, funny, pragmatic, and solution focused.
My treatment approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy (assessing and changing environmental triggers and thoughts contributing to a problem), play therapy (using play as a medium for therapy), and family systems therapy (assessing and changing family dynamics). Another area of expertise is psychological testing with children and adolescents in order to assess ADHD, autism, learning difficulties, and other referral concerns.
I was born in India and grew up in Queens, NY and consider myself a midwestern girl at heart. I am a foodie and traveler who loves hole in the wall eateries and finding the best Bahn Mi sandwiches. Outside of work, I find joy in watching my children make funky music and grow into their own unique and whimsical adult selves. I’m always looking for a good workout and am exploring my new identity as a gardener, otherwise known as playing defense against deer and rabbits.
Education
- Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology – DePaul University, Chicago, IL
- M.A. in Clinical Psychology – DePaul University, Chicago, IL
- B.A. in Psychology – University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, MI
Work History
- Innovative Psychological Consultants – Maple Grove, MN
- North Psychology Clinic, Champlin, MN
- Lorenz Clinic, Rosemount, MN
- MN Autism Center, Woodbury, MN
- Private Practice, Shoreview, MN
- Central Pediatrics, Roseville, MN
- Children’s Hospital and Clinic, St. Paul, MN
- Pilot City Mental Health Center, Minneapolis, MN
Specialties
- Anxiety & Depression
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Behavioral and Mood Dysregulation
- Developmental Challenges (tantrums, sleep problems, toileting issues, picky eaters)
- Attention and Hyperactivity Concerns
- Learning Issues
- Difficulties with Life Changes
Services
- Child Psychotherapy (Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Behavior Therapy, Play-based therapy, Mindfulness)
- Parent Behavior Management Training & Parent Guidance.
- Neurodevelopmental Evaluations, including neuropsychological testing for ADHD, executive functioning deficits, learning concerns, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Populations:
- Therapy and Counseling: 2-65 years old
- Testing evaluations: 2-16 years old
