I'm a clinical child psychologist here to help you better understand your child. I offer expert insight, kind support, and practical guidance—always with a focus on your child’s strengths.
Dr. MacArthur - your expert in child assessment and answers...
Psychological assessment is about understanding the full picture—not just what a child shows in the moment, but the strengths, patterns, and experiences that shape how they think, feel, and learn. It combines evidence-based tools with careful listening and observation to clarify what’s driving their struggles.
Over the years, I’ve sat with worried parents, curious kids, and overwhelmed teens. I’ve seen the relief that comes from naming what’s going on and understanding why things feel hard. No matter the setting, my approach stays the same: look closely, notice what others may have missed, and make sense of what’s been there all along.
I’ve spent over 15 years helping families make sense of what’s happening and what will help …
My work focuses on understanding the whole child—how they think, learn, communicate, and manage emotions. While I specialize in identifying autism, including subtle or camouflaged presentations, my evaluations also address ADHD, anxiety, gifted and twice-exceptional profiles, and learning differences such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia. Families come to me when they want a thorough, individualized assessment rather than a quick screener or a school-only perspective.
A core part of my approach is determining what’s truly driving a child’s challenges. My process is warm, thoughtful, and sensory-friendly, helping kids feel comfortable and understood throughout the evaluation.
I’ve seen how meaningful it is for families to finally have clear answers. I combine clinical expertise, developmental insight, and a strength-based lens so you leave with clarity, direction, and a plan that fits your child.
I help families understand what’s really going on beneath the surface—what their child is experiencing, why it’s happening, and what will genuinely help them move forward.
to sum it up:
B.S. in Psychology and Child Development at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo—where my love for understanding how kids think, learn, and grow began.
Where It All Started ...
Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with a focus on children, teens, and neurodevelopmental differences. During my training, I worked in pediatric clinical settings including Rady Children’s Hospital, Miller Children’s Hospital, school-based clinics, and completed an APA-accredited internship at The Guidance Center. I also conducted research with the Trauma Research Institute and completed a dissertation examining heart-rate variability and physiological indicators of trauma, wellbeing, and emotional regulation in children—work that shaped my commitment to a holistic, whole-child approach to assessment and support.
Becoming a Clinical Psychologist...
I previously worked as a licensed clinical psychologist completing evaluations for children and teens—including autism-focused assessments for the San Diego Regional Center—and provided psychological testing in an assessment clinic. I also directed a children’s wellness program, using holistic supports like gardening, yoga, sports, art, and nutrition to strengthen emotional well-being. In addition, I taught undergraduate psychology courses as an adjunct professor.
Licensed Clinical Psychologist Across Diverse Settings
In 2023, I opened my private pediatric assessment practice, Carlsbad Assessment Center for Children. After years of working in large systems, I wanted to create a space where children feel seen, parents feel supported, and answers come with both warmth and clinical expertise.
Your Go-To for Child & Adolescent Assessments
helping families feel understood, supported, and less alone
seeing a parent's relef when it all makes sense
Watching kids light up when they learn about how their brain works
Kids’ honesty, humor, and imagination
Why I love what I do...
I live in Carlsbad with my husband and three kids, navigating the fun chaos of school schedules, activities, and sandy beach afternoons. I love coffee, trying new restaurants, walking our dog, and catching a quiet moment whenever I can.
When I’m Not Working…
To create a positive, affirming experience—without a waitlist—while offering practical answers that respect each child’s uniqueness and emotional well-being.
My greatest priority is...
Every child deserves to be understood for who they are—not just how they behave or perform. Insight leads to confidence, and the right support can change everything.
I absolutely believe that...
Better understand your child—whether that means clarifying a diagnosis, identifying strengths, guiding next steps, or providing specific recommendations.
My goal is to help you...
2025 winner of best of north country mental health services
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