About Dr. Meredith Brinster
I am a licensed psychologist and earned my doctoral degree from The University of Texas at Austin and completed my internship in clinical psychology at The University of Miami. I have specialized training in assessment of children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of developmental, behavioral, emotional, and academic concerns (e.g., autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, learning disabilities, anxiety, and mood disorders). I also specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), working with individuals with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and other anxiety disorders (e.g., OCD). I am trained in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) techniques.
Assessment Statement
Much of my assessment experience has taken place in a multidisciplinary setting while working collaboratively as part of an interdisciplinary team, partnering with physicians, speech language pathologists, occupational therapists, audiologists, and social workers. I believe the multidisciplinary nature of a comprehensive assessment can take place in all settings by actively involving and valuing the input of parents, teachers, and the individual themselves into the assessment process. I view my role in the assessment process as guiding a team of experts to obtain insight and answers to wide range of questions. I have conducted evaluations across the lifespan, ranging from infant developmental assessments to evaluations for specific neurological conditions. My specialized training in autism assessment and intervention has developed into a passion for early identification. I also specialize in diagnosis of High Functioning ASD in females. Additionally, I specialize in assessing other related neurological disabilities, including ADHD, learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia), behavioral disorders, and anxiety (e.g., OCD).
Areas of Assessment Specialization
- Neuropsychological Evaluations of Children, Adolescents, and Adults
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), early identification, school age, adults, and females
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD)
- Anxiety Disorders (such as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or OCD)
- Learning Disabilities (e.g., dyslexia, dysgraphia)
- Eligibility Determination for Access to Educational Services & Accommodations
Therapy Statement
I focus on delivering evidence-based interventions rooted in the foundations of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I specialize in treating a wide variety of concerns including mood and anxiety disorders, impairments in executive functioning (e.g., ADHD), autism spectrum disorder, as well as various learning disorders, and other communication disorders. While maintaining a commitment to implementing evidence-based interventions, I recognize that given the complexity of each client’s needs, individualized and creative therapy techniques are often needed to enhance the efficacy and applicability of interventions. I regularly create visual materials to supplement verbal information in session. I also regularly consult with teachers and other therapist to ensure continuity of care. I also deliver both individual and group interventions to improve social skills and emotion regulation skills. I am certified in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), an evidence-based treatment for young children with emotional and behavioral disorders that places emphasis on improving the quality of the parent-child interaction patterns. I also have specialized training in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
Areas of Therapy/Consultation Specialization
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD)
- Anxiety (including Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder or OCD)
- Parent Consultation/Coaching (including Parent-Child Interaction Therapy)
Degrees/Licenses:
- 2007—B.A., Johns Hopkins University, Psychological and Brain Sciences
- 2010—M.A., The University of Texas at Austin, Educational Psychology
- 2015—Ph.D., The University of Texas at Austin, School Psychology
- Licensed Psychologist, Texas #37355
Certifications:
- 2015—Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, The University of Miami