About

Dr. Allen received her B.A. in Psychology from UCLA in 1999. She received her Ph.D. in Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology from UCSB in 2007. As part of her training, she completed a predoctoral internship at The Children's Hospital Denver where she specialized in the assessment and treatment of young children. Dr. Allen completed a postdoctoral fellowship in the Department of Child Psychiatry at Stanford University where she focused on the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with anxiety disorders. From 2008-2012, Dr. Allen practiced at the Children's Health Council assessing and treating children with behavior, learning, social, emotional, and attention challenges.

In addition to her own practice, Dr. Allen also works at the Development and Behavior Unit at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford. In this clinic she assesses children who present with concerns related to social, emotional, learning, or medical difficulties. Additionally, she provides training to pediatric residents and fellows about psychological assessment and linking effective treatment to assessment results.

Services

Assessment:

Dr. Allen takes a comprehensive approach to assessment which includes a parent interview, teacher and/or caregiver interview, observation in the child's natural environment, and individual assessment sessions. Once the assessment is complete, Dr. Allen meets with the family to share diagnostic impressions and treatment recommendations and writes a comprehensive report. Based on the results of the assessment, she helps guide the family to appropriate services. In addition to comprehensive assessments, Dr. Allen also administers IQ tests for private school entry.

Treatment:

Dr. Allen provides individual treatment to children and adolescents as well as parent consultation. Her treatment approach involves using principles from evidence-based treatment including cognitive behavioral therapy. Individual therapy typically involves meeting once a week to establish a relationship and develop tools and techniques to enhance coping. In addition to the individual therapy, Dr. Allen provides parent consultation. Dr. Allen also meets with parents separately to address concerns related to parenting challenges.

Specialty Areas

anxiety disorders
life transitions (e.g. new school, making new friends)

behavior disorders
attention disorders

learning disorders
social concerns

Policies and Fees

Upon seeking service for their child, Dr. Allen will provide a brief telephone consultation to determine the fit between the needs of the individual and her expertise. After this initial consultation, Dr. Allen will meet with the parents to gather history and provide more information about the treatment and/or assessment.

Cancellations

Dr. Allen requests that sessions are cancelled 24 hours in advance to avoid a charge (except in the case of illness or emergency).

Insurance:

Dr. Allen does not contract directly with insurance companies. She will provide a monthly statement that can be submitted to insurance for reimbursement if the policy allows.

Fees:

Treatment sessions are billed at $250 per 45/50 minute session. Assessments are billed at $350 per hour and vary in length. Payment is due at the time of service. Dr. Allen accepts check or cash.

Office Forms

Please read through all the documents listed below. Complete the appropriate forms and bring them to your first appointment with Dr. Allen.

Psychological Services for Children and Families

Dr. Megan Allen is a licensed psychologist (CA #22150) in practice in Menlo Park. She specializes in assessment and treatment of children 2 through 22 years.