Dr. Meena Dugatkin is a child psychologist who specializes in helping children and families break free from cycles of anxiety and “sticky” thoughts. She specializes in the treatment of anxiety in children, from early childhood (ages 3–6) through school age (ages 6–12).
For young children (3-6), she uses a family-oriented, collaborative, play-based approach using a combination of evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy (CBPT), Exposure Therapy, and Behavioral Therapy to address anxiety related challenges such as separation anxiety, excessive worry, toilet anxiety, sleep challenges, restricted eating, selective mutism, and specific phobias. She has particular expertise in managing OCD and related behaviors, including intrusive thoughts, compulsive rituals, hair pulling, and skin picking behaviors. She brings therapy to life through play and creativity, making sessions engaging and meaningful for children and families.
With school-age children (6-12), she continues to address similar anxiety related concerns while also supporting struggles with perfectionism, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, adjustment issues, and school/social stress. Dr. Dugatkin incorporates play, art, and the child’s interests to build strong therapeutic relationships and enhance engagement, using a collaborative, validating, and developmentally sensitive approach.
Committed to providing culturally responsive care, Dr. Dugatkin works with sensitivity to neurodiversity (ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder), gender identity, race and ethnicity, religion, and other aspects of identity. She strives to create a space where children and families feel understood, supported, and empowered.
Dr. Dugatkin earned her Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Murray State University and her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (Child, Adolescent, and Families track) from Spalding University. She completed her clinical training working with children, adolescents, and families across community, home, and school-based settings. Dr. Meena Dugatkin is also a Certified Light On Anxiety Treatment Specialist, leads the Youth and Parents Training Program within the Clinical Training Institute, and is a co-author of the Anxiety Busting Workbook for Kids and Teens.
To learn more or join a group, contact [email protected].