Dr. Gabriela (Gabbie) Olavarrieta, Psy.D

I specialize in Clinical Child/Adolescent Psychology and Neuropsychology. My work is grounded in Evidence-Based Practice (EBP), allowing me to develop highly individualized and integrated treatment and assessment plans tailored to each child’s unique needs. I prioritize the use of current research, while thoughtfully considering client characteristics, cultural background, and treatment preferences.

License:

I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist in the State of California (PSY35715).

Education:

B.A. Psychology, Whittier College (Whittier, California)

M.A. Humanities & Social Thought, New York University (New York, New York)

M.S. Clinical Psychology, University of San Francisco (San Francisco, California)

Psy.D Clinical Psychology, University of San Francisco (San Francisco, California)

I completed my predoctoral internship at the American Psychological Association (APA) accredited Institute of Multicultural Counseling and Education Services in Los Angeles, California.

I completed my Post-Doctoral Fellowship at the Research Center for the Dissemination and Implementation of Culturally Sensitive, Evidence-Based (DICE) Psychological Services at the University of Nevada, Reno. Additionally, I accrued supervised postdoctoral hours in neuropsychological assessments at a private practice based in Reno, Nevada.

Specializations and Certifications:

I completed a 2-year postdoctoral continuing education program in the specialization of neuropsychology from Fielding Graduate University, qualifying me to practice as a neuropsychologist.

Research Experiences:

Institute of Multicultural Counseling and Education Services (Los Angeles, CA)

Elmhurst Hospital Center (New York, New York)

Columbia University- New York State Psychiatric Institute (New York, New York)

Professional Affiliations:

I hold active membership in the following associations:

- The American Psychological Association (APA)

- The California Psychological Association (CPA)

- The Marin County Psychological Association (MCPA)
- American Academy of Pediatric Neuropsychology (AAPdN)

Practice Approach: I practice from a strength-based approach, placing greater emphasis on a child’s unique strengths rather than solely focusing on their challenges. This perspective allows for more effective treatment by fostering confidence, resilience, and a positive sense of self.

Children live in a rich and complex world. Their brains are developing rapidly, and they’re engaging in learning processes that go far beyond academics—navigating increasingly nuanced social environments, exploring autonomy, and forming their identities. My goal is to support children and adolescents in navigating this journey by teaching them effective coping strategies and helping them become their most authentic selves.

I do not position myself as the expert in their lives; rather, I work to help children feel like the experts of their own experiences. Through this collaborative and empowering process, we increase their sense of control and peace of mind—improving their quality of life, and by extension, their families’ as well.

A bit about me personally... I was born and raised in Miami, Florida, and then, when I was 13, my family moved to Marin County. My hobbies include traveling any chance I get, horseback riding, painting, skiing, running, and reading. I live in Marin County with my partner and a myriad of pets, including a french bulldog (Finley), a horse (Maggie), two chickens (Henrietta & Blair), a duck (Willem Duckfoe), a bearded dragon (Florence), and red-eared slider turtle (Bowie).