Eleni Rizakos, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist within the Neuroscience and Behavioral Medicine Division with a specialized focus in the Comprehensive Pediatric Epilepsy Program. Dr. Rizakos uses evidence-based interventions, with a focus on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), to treat youth with various neurological conditions. She also integrates acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness and multicultural approaches to best meet the unique needs of each patient. Dr. Rizakos greatly values the collaborative process in therapy, closely working with caregivers, families and the medical team with the goal to develop skills to navigate challenges and create lasting change.
Dr. Rizakos' area of expertise is in pediatric psychology, working with a range of medical and psychological conditions in youth. These include anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, coping with medical conditions and chronic illness, adherence to medical regimens, preparation for medical procedures and medical trauma.
In the Comprehensive Pediatric Epilepsy Program, Dr. Rizakos is assisting in the development of a screening program to be implemented in the Epilepsy Clinic. The goal is to improve the standard of care for youth with epilepsy and their families through early detection of psychosocial concerns.