Stephanie Kohlbeck’s first exposure to
psychology was in a course she took in
high school. Now, after specialized training
in pediatric psychology, she still finds the
mind fascinating.
She has a special passion for working
with children with chronic diseases such
as cancer, diabetes and cystic fibrosis.
“We can focus so much on their medical
disease that we may ignore the impact
their diagnosis can have on their emotional
functioning,” she said. She also works
with children with anxiety disorders,
depression and adjustment issues related
to life changes. As a cognitive behavioral
therapist, she focuses on how people think about things and how that can influence their emotions and behavior.
After growing up in Iowa, she earned her doctorate degree from Auburn University in Alabama. She completed fellowship training in pediatric psychology at Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. Complementing her formal training, however, are the lessons she has learned from being a mother of three, including twins.
“Becoming a parent changed my entire perspective as a health care provider,” she recalled. “My work is now more influenced by my own experiences as a mother.”
Dr. Kohlbeck enjoys spending time with
her family and traveling.