Biography of Dr. Erika Rich
From a young age, I knew I wanted to work with children. Basically, I started out as a really good babysitter. I decided on psychology because not only did I like working directly with children and families, but I really enjoyed doing research, too. I have published several research articles and written a few chapters and continue to be involved in research in one way or another. I think it’s important for me to be up on the latest research so that I can continue to give children and families cutting-edge intervention.
I have worked with all kinds of kids and all kinds of families. But, I am most passionate about social skills training and improving family functioning. It is probably because I was such a bossy kid myself, but I specialized in social skills very early in my career. It was later that I started emphasizing the overall family environment for supporting child development. Now, I take this family-centered approach in all of my services.
Education and Experience
After getting my Bachelor of Arts degree from the College of William and Mary and my Master's Degree from Wake Forest, I went on to get my Doctorate in Developmental-Clinical Psychology from the University of Maine. My dissertation work formed the foundation of the COMPASS program that I am running today. I spent the next four years at the UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute. My training at UCLA is a great foundation for my practice of psychology. I was lucky enough to work with leading child psychologists and psychiatrists at UCLA and to gain experience with special populations such as children with ADHD, anxiety, autism, and prenatal alcohol/drug exposure.
Publications and Research Presentations
If you are interested in any of my research in areas such as children's friendships, autism, ADHD, family functioning, and behavioral difficulties in children, then please download a complete list.
Biography of Dr. Lauren Stutman
Dr. Stutman received a dual-doctorate in Clinical and School Psychology from APA accredited program, Yeshiva University of Albert Einstein School of Medicine. Her expertise includes working with children, adolescents, and adults.
Dr. Stutman received specialized training in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and impulsive/compulsive disorders from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine with Dr. Eric Hollander, a leader in the research and treatment of OCD and other anxiety disorders. Additionally, she has extensive experience working with anxiety and chronic pain disorders in outpatient clinics, private practice, hospital, and school settings. Her accomplishments were recognized by the world’s largest chronic pain network for Interstitial Cystitis (ICN), where she was asked to speak on this topic.
Dr. Stutman is particularly skilled in incorporating mindfulness training into the therapeutic process. She trained in meditation practices with Dr. Alan Wallace, world-renowned founder of the Santa Barbara Institute for Consciousness Studies. She weaves mindfulness into her work with both children and parents.
In working as a psychological assistant (PSB36177), under the supervision of Dr. Erika Rich, Dr. Stutman will provide you and your child with appropriate evidence-based interventions to help you feel confident as a parent and your child feel happy and successful in their interactions with others.
Biography of Dr. Maya Shlanger
Dr. Maya Shlanger’s work with clients is rooted in deep respect for the dignity of each child, parent, and family unit. There is an inter-relationship between the body, mind and spirit and the power of each person to maintain healthy functioning. Dr. Schlanger strives to help each individual cope with life's challenges in a healthy, healing way. She will explore with you the resources and skills needed to lead you and/or your child to have a more enriched life.
Dr. Shlanger’s clinical practice considers each individual’s unique background, current situation, needs and values; working collaboratively with you to meet your needs and goals. Dr. Shlanger integrates aspects of cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and Mindfulness-Based treatments; which include Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Dr. Shlanger received her Psy.D. degree in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Shlanger has advanced certificates of training in the Treatment of Sexual Dysfunctions and uses the knowledge of this training to work with couples in distress wanting to improve their communication and intimacy. In addition, Dr. Shlanger has experience working with specific populations including: people in major life transitions, individuals engaged in creative process, and individuals suffering from anxiety and depression.
Dr. Shlanger is registered by the California Board of Psychology to practice psychology as a psychological assistant (PSB 35336) under the supervision of Erika Rich, Ph.D. (PSY 19465). Dr. Shlanger is enthusiastic about applying her extensive background and training to children, adolescents, and families in need as a member of Rich & Associates.
