Meghan R. McCarthy, PsyD

“Mental health problems that surface in adulthood often start in early life,” says Dr. McCarthy. “Early intervention is a powerful tool to help children and adolescents grow up to become the best versions of themselves.”

In her work with young people, she says, “I try to create a space where my patients can share their challenges without judgment. That’s key to getting to the bottom of what’s going and why.” With that information, she guides her patients in practicing evidence-based strategies for approaching their challenges in new ways. “It’s a magical and wonderful thing to see faces brighten as these kids learn new skills to help them through challenging moments,” she says. “My favorite part of my work is getting to the point when children, adolescents and families become happy and successful and no longer need to work with me.”

Dr. McCarthy recognizes that it can be overwhelming to consider talking to a stranger about your life and struggles. “I am more than happy to meet with patients and introduce myself so they can see who I am and how I work before they decide whether they’re ready to work with me,” she says.

Dr. McCarthy earned her doctorate from the Pacific University School of Graduate Psychology. She completed her internship at Thriving Minds with a focus on treating selective mutism, and her residency with Providence Medical Group.

Outside of her practice, she enjoys hanging out with her pets and family, playing board games, reading, and working on craft projects like crochet and quilting. You’ll often see her in her favorite sweatshirt – it’s the one with a picture of her corgi, Archer, on the front.