Child Psychologists
Berkeley Parents Network >
Reviews >
Health & Medical >
Child Psychologists
Sept 2012
Can someone please recommend a pediatric psychologist that accepts Anthem Blue
Cross (HMO)? Thank you. Frustrated with Insurance Obstacles
I highly recommend Dr. Deborah Ronay. She is compassionate, sharp and very
experienced with children. 510-379-9235
Valerie, LCSW
My recommendation may be a bit South for most in this network, but here's my
experience nonetheless. Our kids' pediatrician gave us a referral to the Center
for Developing Minds ( www.devminds.com ) Our 5 year-old son was having sleep
problems. At that practice we met with one of the partners, Dr. Neal Rojas. I
was impressed with the way he went about collecting information and determining
a solution. He began with a quick medical exam and then engaged my son and I in
some role playing. He asked me to write a very detailed narrative about our
bedtime ritual. After two visits he had a plan of action for us - just some
basic rewards to reinforce correct behavior, and that I needed to shorten the
bedtime ritual. It all made sense. Dr. Rojas wrote a thorough assessment of
things, called and talked to me about the plan, and followed up with our
pediatrician. It barely took a week before our sleep problems were solved.
Other things to consider - at the time - 3 years ago - this was the only
practice in the area with a pediatric behavioral psychiatrist. I emphasize
''behavioral,'' this guy really understands young children.
Also, this wasn't cheap, and you pay in full at the time of service. That being
said, the office staff provides you with everything you need to submit a claim
to your insurance company - which worked for us.
Dan
May 2010
I am seeking a recommendation for a child psychologist, who
has experiences with children who had gone through cancer
treatment in the past, and are having some social adjustment
issues at school. My son went to almost four years of
cancer treatment. He is off treatment for two years, and
now in the end of 5th grade. Even since he was still during
treatment, he tends to fall into a role of being bullied.
He sees himself as physically weaker than his peers (which
unfortunately is true due to the result of cancer
treatment), and he feels he is too weak to stand up for
himself.
I would like him to have someone who can coach him how to
navigate some socially conflicting situations with his peers.
He is talented with drawing and art, has tremendous
patience, and has very pleasant characteristics. However,
he does not seem to know how to be confrontational in more
firm and assertive way.
I have asked some help from school, but the support seems
minimum.
Any recommendation is appreciated.
Thank you.
Mom who is seekng support for my child
Rachel Levy works in Market Hall in Rockridge, and specializes in work with this
population. She's bright, competent, and great with kids. Her number is 510-
287-2625.
Seth
Your son is probably eligible for a 504 plan or an IEP(if he
doesn't have one already), which obligates the school to
plan for his needs. Talk to one of the parent advocates at
the Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund (DREDF).
You also might check at the hospital where he was treated,
and see if there are any post-treatment support groups for
children.
anon
Hi, I feel for your son and all he and your family have gone through. I have an
excellent referral however. Kristina Whitney, Ph.D. is a wonderful clinical
psychologist who specializes in working with children as well as working with
children who have or have had medical issues. She is top notch and I think you
should at least call to get a feel for her style. Dr. Whitney is located in Oakland
in the Rockridge area and her phone number is (510) 658-8052. Good luck.
Rachel
I know of two therapists at Children's Hospital who deal
only with cancer children and their families (our family
too!). They are Dina Hankin and Pam Orren, both very nice
women. I don't know if you have to be seen by the
oncology group at CHO to have access to Dina and Pam
though. Worth looking into. I'm sorry you have need for
their services.
Another peds onc mama
Oct 2009
I have reason to believe my four year old daughter might have been sexually molested.
I am looking for a good child psychologist/therapist who specializes in sexual abuse
who can help us figure out what happened and also help my daughter recover.
Thank you.
anon
I wanted to let you know that you are not alone. We are dealing
with this currently.
The first thing that you need to know is that as soon as you
bring a professional into your child's life, Child Protective
Services will be notified and a report will be written. All
therapists, psychologists... are mandated reporters.
CPS may or may not investigate. Your report will be forwarded to
the police in your city. Berkeley is very proactive in
investigating reports of sexual abuse.
Your child will have interview/s at Callico, an agency who
specializes in interviewing children about abuse.
The DA will view the interview either by tape or in person.
Your child may or may not have a physical exam at Children's
Hospital. They are fantastic and it is not scary at all.
The police may or may not file charges, but you will be expected
to keep your child away from the perpetrator.
Children's Hospital has fantastic therapeutic services. They are
free to victims and are specialized in dealing with sexual abuse.
Please call them and learn about the Center for Child Protection.
You can survive this as long as you allow yourself to receive
support. Discovering sexual abuse puts you through an intense
grief process. Anger, Denial, Bargaining... and eventually you
can make it to acceptance. I pray you peace and strength.
You may ask the moderator to give you my email.
Stronger than I ever thought
Jan 2009
Our seven-year-old daughter has anxiety issues. We need help. Might
you have a child psychologist to recommend? We're in Contra Costa
so referrals on the east side of the tunnel are even more
appreciated. I'm reading The Highly Sensitive Child now and would
also be grateful for any books you might recommend that could help
us.
L.
Hi. I would highly recommend Virginia VandenBergh MFCC. She has
helped me a great deal with my little sister's anorexia and has
a great deal of expertise in this area. She has a wonderful way
with children and is extremely compassionate. Her office is
located in the Rockridge Area of Oakland and I find that she can
often work with me at odd hours- very amenable. Her phone number
is 510-654-6096. I wish you the best of luck.
Jordan
this page was last updated: Oct 21, 2012
The opinions and statements expressed on this website
are those of parents who subscribe to the
Berkeley Parents Network.
Please see
Disclaimer & Usage for
information about using content on this website.
Copyright © 1996-2013 Berkeley Parents Network