Coping with medical issues
Quality care from a pediatric psychologist
A pediatric psychologist is a clinical psychologist with specialized training in working with children, adolescents, and families to support emotional, behavioral, and psychological well-being in the context of medical and developmental challenges. With a background in Clinical Psychology and advanced training in pediatric settings, I work closely with children and families to help them cope with a wide range of medical conditions and the emotional and behavioral difficulties that often accompany them.
My clinical experience includes supporting children with chronic illnesses such as epilepsy, diabetes, cystic fibrosis, HIV, and asthma, as well as those navigating sleep disorders, chronic pain, obesity, food allergies, craniofacial differences, and the challenges associated with organ transplants. Through evidence-based approaches, I aim to build resilience, reduce distress, and promote healthy development for children facing complex health needs.
IBD Psychologist
Quality care from someone who understands IBD
For the past 13 years, I have specialized in working with teens and young adults with GI disorders, specifically Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis (also known as inflammatory bowel disease - IBD). The most common issues I treat in my patients with IBD include: anxiety, depression, coping with IBD, pain management, and transitioning to college.
Within this complex landscape, I've embarked on a mission to support my patients, addressing a multitude of common challenges that come with IBD. From the relentless grip of anxiety and depression to the art of mastering pain management, from empowering patients to navigate life with IBD to smoothing out the transition to college, I've been right there in the trenches, providing guidance every step of the way.
I proudly serve as the psychologist for the multidisciplinary IBD team at Children's Hospital of Orange County (CHOC). But that's not all – I've also secured funding from the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation, enabling me to craft a groundbreaking transition program to adult care. This initiative was shaped in collaboration with patients, parents, and a team of dedicated pediatric and adult providers, ensuring a holistic and patient-centric approach.
To top it off, my passion for IBD research has led me to publish extensively on a wide array of topics, ranging from adherence and mental health to the intricate process of transitioning to adult IBD care. If you're eager to dive deeper into my research, click right here and let the exploration begin! 📚🔬