Kirsten Cullen Sharma, PsyD
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Clinical Neuropsychologist
There are many options for receiving high quality psychological services in New York City. After working with an incredibly talented group of specialists in child psychology, research and child neuropsychology at the NYU Langone Child Study Center for almost a decade, my husband (fellow neuropsychologist) and I established Milestones with the goal of offering best in class neuropsychological evaluations, therapy treatment, and school collaboration for children, tweens, teens, and families.
My expertise encompasses early childhood development, learning, behavior, anxiety, executive functioning, and ADHD. As a neuropsychologist and child psychologist, I take pride in being one of a few neuropsychologists who provides both therapy and assessment for children, tweens, and teens. My dual expertise in assessment and evidence-based treatment enhances my understanding of the “whole child,” the root causes of challenges, and the most effective interventions. My extensive experience over the last decade, working with hundreds of families, has given me a solid grasp of brain development and its impact on behavior, learning, communication, self-esteem, and regulation skills. In addition to conducting evaluations, I offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to children and families in need of new strategies, skills, and tools to enhance happiness, confidence, and relationships. My approach to individualizing conceptualization and treatment for each family facilitates meaningful change, and to the heart of our name, helps to meet new Milestones.
One of my job's most fulfilling aspects is synthesizing evidence-based insights to elucidate a child's strengths, potential as a student, and social and emotional health. I love speaking with parents about their children, hearing from children themselves who have more to share on their development than is often realized, and meeting with schools to communicate findings in a meaningful way. I am dedicated to collaborating with parents and schools to ensure the well-being and success of children, tweens, and teens. In fact, now that I have been active in this field for so long, I often see children for updated assessments or reengagement in therapy sessions. I have been able to watch children grow for years and consult along the way.
As a mother, I understand the importance of comprehending your child's challenges and being equipped with strategies that foster growth, mastery, and confidence. I am curious about my own children’s learning styles and strengths, and also like to know about what they can work on. As a professional, I empathize with the parents I work with, offering guidance and compassion in each unique situation. I frequently engage with schools and organizations for workshops and have robust media experience, discussing optimal parenting practices, child development, executive functioning, and screen time management.
Specialties
Neuropsychological evaluations
Preschool/transition to school evaluations
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Parent-Focused Therapy
Parent Consultation
School consultation
EXPERIENCE
Clinical Assistant Professor at the Child Study Center at NYU Langone Medical Center
Director of Early Childhood Clinical Service at the Child Study Center at NYU Langone Medical Center
Postdoctoral Fellow in Neuropsychology at the Child Study Center at NYU Langone Medical Center
Clinical Supervisor for Parent Corps, a preschool parenting and school-based program
Trained NYC Department of Education social workers in child development and best practices for five years