About Me

Dr. Stephanie Mihalas has had extensive training in pediatric behavioral and emotional problems since 2003. Dr. Mihalas is a licensed psychologist (PSY 23268) and a nationally certified school psychologist. Dr. Mihalas received her undergraduate degree in Psychology and Learning and Organizational Change from Northwestern University. Commonly known by her patients as Dr. Stephanie, she received her Masters, Educational Specialist, and Doctorate from the University of South Florida in School Psychology with a primary focus on child and adolescent mental health issues. Finally, Dr. Stephanie completed her advanced clinical training for two years at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and the Kennedy Krieger Institute.

Dr. Stephanie works with children ranging in age from 2-18, with a primary focus on early intervention for 2 to 10-year-olds. Dr. Stephanie utilizes an “ecological” approach to therapy, which means that the family, peers, school, and any other system that the child is involved with is considered to be relevant and important to the functioning of the child or adolescent. Therapy with Dr. Stephanie focuses on utilizing the strengths of the patient, rather than focusing on the deficits. By employing a strengths-based approach to treatment, the patient and family may maintain a positive attitude towards treatment and the abilities of the patient.

Dr. Stephanie utilizes “evidence-based” interventions, which in simple terms, mean treatment that has been proven to work by researchers and clinicians. Dr. Stephanie employs treatment that is expected to be short-term, show results, and have a long-term impact on the patient and the family.

Dr. Stephanie has worked in a variety of settings including hospitals, outpatient mental health facilites, schools, and academic institutions. Moreover, Dr. Stephanie has published in a variety of peer-refereed journals, book chapters, and newsletters. Dr. Stephanie has presented at conferences around the country including the National Association of School Psychologists, Association of Behavior and Cognitive Therapies, and American Psychological Association. Currently, Dr. Stephanie teaches graduate students at Pepperdine University, mentors graduate students, continues to write and publish academic manuscripts, consults with schools and maintains a practice focused on children and families in West Los Angeles.