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Kara Goobic, Psy.D. Licensed Clinical Psychologist To contact Dr. Goobic, please call 301-562-8448, Ext. 12. My approach I work with children, adolescents, and adults who have ADHD (ADD), autism spectrum disorders, developmental delays, learning disorders, depression, anxiety, and other related conditions. I use a straightforward, down-to-earth, practical approach to psychotherapy. Because I believe in treating the whole person, I value the unique qualities of each client and try to normalize all psychological disorders, educating every client about their disorder, and ways to manage their symptoms. Areas of Clinical Focus Diagnosis and treatment of ADD and related disorders For individuals with ADHD (ADD) a structured approach which relies heavily on visual supports is often most useful. In working with the child or adolescent, I help develop both short and long-term goals for therapy. Education about ADHD and ways to manage the symptoms are frequently a focus of our sessions. My experience working with clients of all ages allows me to generalize coping strategies from one age group to another. Parent Guidance Working with children always includes close involvement with the child’s parents or other caregivers. I provide parent guidance and education about the child’s disorder to help address family problems through a constructive, problem-solving approach. I focus on helping parents learn how best to help their child feel and function better by providing strategies that the entire family can use, including schedules, organizational strategies, and education about ADHD. Support Groups for Children and Adolescents with ADHD I provide group therapy sessions for various ages of children with ADHD. Support groups for teenagers are especially important as they offer an opportunity for girls to meet others with AD/HD, become knowledgeable about the diagnosis, share their experiences with other teens, and come to accept themselves wherever they are in the process of understanding the disorder. Consultation and Classroom Observations For students I can provide school consultation through phone conversations with teachers, in-person meetings, and classroom observations. I work closely with families and all other professionals involved in the care of the client. Diagnosis and Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders I have expertise in diagnosing and treating autism spectrum disorders. I administer comprehensive evaluations to diagnose autism and pervasive developmental disorder across ages, developmental levels, and language skills. My treatment approach for autism spectrum disorder focuses on the child’s strengths, modifying the home and school environment and providing visual supports. Psychotherapy for individuals diagnosed with chronic illnesses (such as Multiple Sclerosis, Fibromyalgia, Lyme Disease and other autoimmune conditions) Some of my clients have been diagnosed with autoimmune conditions, in addition to ADHD. Mainly women, these clients are provided with empathy, support, and specific strategies to help manage their symptoms. Relaxation techniques such as imagery and progressive muscle relaxation are invaluable when treating these conditions. Professional Experience I have over twelve years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, and their families in settings such as university hospitals, developmental clinics, school systems, neonatal intensive care units and outpatient therapy centers. My training has focused on disorders such as autism spectrum, Attention deficit, anxiety, depression, and medical disorders. I have extensive experience working within multidisciplinary settings, conducting developmental evaluations, working in early intervention programs and providing therapeutic interventions. I have also conducted home-based interventions with children and their families who are challenged by Attention deficit disorder, autism spectrum disorders, and various medical conditions. Educational Background
Clinical Training
Clinical Experience
Teaching Experience
Professional Affiliations
Personal Interests Eleven years ago, while working toward my doctorate in clinical psychology, I was diagnosed with Relapsing/Remitting form of Multiple Sclerosis. While the illness has presented me with many challenges, it has also helped shape my therapeutic work. The experience has taught me about the importance of prioritizing - health, family, friends, and developing a greater perspective on the world. Since my diagnosis, I have been invited to work as a patient advocate, helping other people with MS to better understand this disorder and how to manage it. I find that my personal experience with MS allows me to be more effective in helping others learn to cope with chronic illnesses. I have given a number of public presentations, including:
Additional Presentations given to the following organizations and universities:
I am available to provide professional training seminars and presentations to the general public on topics related to:
If your organization is interested in a presentation or training seminar, please contact me at 301-562-8448 ext 12 or at karagoobic@chesapeakeadd.com. |
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