Psychologists who are knowledgeable, experienced, and fun.
Megan Helmen, PsyD, LP
I believe in balancing clinical expertise and research-based interventions with connection and a sense of humor. I believe in respecting each child as a whole human who can be included in the evaluation process. Collaborating with parents to better understand their child and seeing ‘the lightbulb go on’ is a rewarding experience. I love that my job allows me to hyperfocus on my interests and also be silly while getting to know and supporting the neatest kids. Outside of work, I hear a lot about Pokémon cards and iPad games from my two kids. I love sleep, the color magenta, travel, and a good Netflix documentary binge.
Pediatric Neuropsychologist, Owner
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Bachelor of Science, Child Psychology, Minors: Youth Studies & Family Social Science, University of Minnesota
Masters of Arts and Doctor of Clinical Psychology, Minnesota School of Professional Psychology
APA-Approved Internship, Watson Institute in Sewickley, PA, Pediatric Neuropsychology & Autism
2-year Postdoctoral Fellowship, University of Minnesota Medical School, Pediatric Neuropsychology
10+ years postdoctoral clinical work providing neuropsychological evaluations
Areas of interest: autism, 2E, giftedness, ADHD, learning disorders (e.g., dyslexia, dysgraphia) attachment/orphanage adoption, anxiety, OCD, tic disorders. I am familiar with PANS/PANDAS and many genetic syndromes (e.g., NF1 & 2, VCFS, Down Syndrome).
Melissa Fischer, PsyD, LP
I love the experience of meeting families and learning their child's story. I use my knowledge of child development, brain-behavior relationships, learning, and psychology to deepen understanding of the child and create a road map for the future. I also enjoy working with children and teens who have a complex presentation of varying strengths and challenges, where other professionals have struggled to 'pinpoint' what could be helpful. I don't take lightly that you allow me to get to know your child and family. Outside work, I love spending time with my family and friends, playing with my two daughters, and being outside. I also enjoy chocolate, coffee, and my black cat.
Pediatric Neuropsychologist
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Bachelor of Science, Psychology, Minor: Sociology, University of Minnesota Duluth
Masters of Arts and Doctor of Clinical Psychology, Minnesota School of Professional Psychology
APA-Approved Internship, University of Minnesota Medical School, Pediatric Neuropsychology & Pediatric Psychology
2-year Postdoctoral Fellowship, University of Minnesota Medical School, Pediatric Neuropsychology
8+ years postdoctoral clinical work providing neuropsychological evaluations
Areas of interest: autism (including the more nuanced presentation of autism), ADHD, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, trauma, adverse childhood experiences, anxiety, giftedness, and twice-exceptionality (2e).
Cathy Avery, PhD, LP
I love working with children and adolescents. Their energy, curiosity, integrity, and sense of humor make me look forward to coming to work each day. Testing is a collaborative process where we can celebrate what makes each child unique. I love finding areas of unique strengths and talents. We use these strengths to develop strategies and interventions to help them compensate for areas of weakness. My goal is for each child to leave feeling more empowered by what they have learned and for parents to have a roadmap on how to proceed. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my children and grandchildren. I love weightlifting, gardening, and wandering around catching Pokémon.
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Bachelor of Arts, Political Science, Lawrence University, Appleton, WI
Doctor of Philosophy, Clinical Psychology, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL
APA-Approved Internship, Pine Rest Christian Hospital, Grand Rapids, MI
35+ years post-doctoral clinical work providing neuropsychological and psychoeducational evaluations.
Areas of Interest:
I enjoy exploring complex presentations including autism, learning disabilities, ADHD, depression, anxiety, giftedness, and twice-exceptionality (2e), OCD, and head injuries. I work with children 8 years and older.
Pediatric Neuropsychologist
Sara Holtman, PsyD, LP
I believe that all brains are valuable. If we can help children and teens understand their brains, we can foster growth and continued benefits down the road. My therapy experience working alongside children and families has helped me to make the results of neuropsychological testing understandable and actionable. I love collaborating with families, having fun, and being helpful. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my husband, daughter, and two dogs. I also like to try new foods, draw, and read fiction.
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Bachelor of Science, Art Education & Bachelor of Fine Arts, Printmaking, Minnesota State University, Moorhead, MN
Masters of Science, Art Therapy & Counseling, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA
Doctor of Counseling Psychology, Northwest University - Kirkland, WA (APA-approved program)
APA-Approved Internship, Fraser
2-year Neuropsychology Fellowship, Fraser
5+ years of neuropsychological assessments experience
12+ years of clinical/art therapy experience
Areas of interest: autism, autism in females, LGBTQ+, learning disorders, ADHD, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, giftedness, and twice-exceptionality (2e).
Pediatric Neuropsychologist
Caitlin Reed
I love to partner with families, building a foundation of trust. I spent time working as a daycare Center Director and am so grateful to continue working with families as an office assistant.
Outside of work, I spend time with my husband, son, and daughter. I enjoy reading, being outdoors, working on our garden, and cheering on my favorite sports teams.
Office Administrator