Monica R. Whitehead, PhD

As a pediatric psychologist, I provide psychotherapy for children through young adults. While I have expertise for a wide range of clinical concerns, I am most passionate about treating Anxiety Disorders and OCD. I strive to give my patients and their families a specific plan and strategies to address their needs every time I see them. I want families to know that when they meet me, they are going to get someone genuine, family-focused, and a little bit silly. I will always take their concerns seriously, and if in the process, I can connect with them through humor, all the better.

I first became interested in psychology as a high school freshman when I learned about Freud in an English class. My passion for helping children grew as I learned more about psychopathology in college. As a first-generation college student, when it was time to choose a career, I went with my gut. I entered into a clinical psychology graduate program, and happily, it has been the right field for me.

In my practice, I highly value and adhere to evidence-based approaches to care. I ensure that my patients and their families feel empowered as I'm sure their world can sometimes feel out of control, and I want them to recognize what they can control.

In addition to helping patients directly, I aim to change how the system approaches mental health. As such, I am actively involved in training and educating others about evidence-based approaches to mental health. Over the years, I have led trainings for medical residents, pediatricians, social workers, and school officials to ensure they're providing the best approach to their communities.

In my free time, my family and I enjoy traveling (especially to National Parks), watching stand-up comedy, arguing over who has the best college football team, and spending time outside together.