Pronouns: she/her/hers

I am a Nationally Certified School Psychologist with nearly a decade of experience working in public schools, university research settings, and in private practice. I earned a Bachelor’s in psychology and philosophy from the Harriet B. Wilkes Honors College at Florida Atlantic University, as well as a Masters and Specialist Degree in School Psychology from the University of South Florida. As a current member of the National Association of School Psychologists, I also participate in ongoing professional development opportunities and stay informed regarding the most effective treatment strategies available.

Throughout my experiences as an educator, research specialist and school psychologist, I have worked with numerous children, teens, and family members including individuals with autism, ADHD, executive functioning deficits, social skills deficits, behavior difficulties, anxiety, depression, cognitive delays, specific learning disabilities and varying exceptionalities. I am experienced in providing evidence-based treatments including cognitive behavioral therapy, social skills training, behavior management training, motivational interviewing and mindfulness training.  Additionally, I have extensive training in the use of behavioral techniques to address challenging and disruptive behaviors.

My approach to therapy is to create a warm, supportive environment in which my clients feel free to express themselves without judgment or recrimination. Every individual is different, so I tailor treatment to best serve the unique needs of each client and family. I strive to be culturally sensitive in my therapeutic practice by understanding and honoring the specific backgrounds, opinions and belief systems of the families I work with. My greatest goals as a therapist include helping individuals to better understand their own strengths and challenges, develop self-defined goals, build skills to reach their greatest potential, and celebrate progress made along the way.

I live in St. Petersburg and enjoy being in nature, practicing yoga and meditation, listening to new music, riding roller coasters, bicycling and singing. I am especially fond of animals, and when the weather is nice you will likely find me birdwatching while taking long walks around the city.

Courtney “Cici” Claar, EdS