The McGinnis Psychology Group is a specialty practice serving the diagnostic, intervention, and consultation needs of children and families throughout Southwest Florida and beyond. Children experiencing academic, emotional, behavioral, or social difficulties, parents in need of more effective parenting tools, and teachers seeking more efficient teaching methods are seen daily, with an eye toward long-term goals shared by all: Increased happiness and self-confidence, life satisfaction, independence, and personal effectiveness. Everyday childhood issues like homework and bedtime are addressed as well.

The doctors of the McGinnis Psychology Group understand that there are many situations in which talking with or punishing children is not an effective behavioral change strategy – sometimes it seems like more talk or punishment makes it worse! We specialize in the alternative methods – positive methods that do not necessarily rely on children gaining insight or thinking differently about their behavior. Rather, we are interested, as you are we’re sure, in altering children’s instincts in their daily life, so that we do not have to continue reminding or reprimanding them. Consequently, we are able to praise them for a job well done much more often which inevitably leads to improved self-esteem and self-confidence.

Our doctors are particularly known for their expertise in the areas of autism and Asperger syndrome, early-onset bipolar disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety and school refusal, learning difficulties, oppositional behavior, and habit disorders such as chronic hair pulling. A data-based diagnostic and intervention approach is taken to ensure an accurate conceptualization of the problem, and effective and efficient treatment, using universal principles of behavior and other research-based knowledge to support positive behavioral change. To the extent indicated, we work very closely with parents, teachers, pediatricians, neurologists, child psychiatrists, and pediatric therapists as an integral member of each child’s treatment team to ensure positive outcomes in a timely fashion.

We are proud of our practice and our work. We hope you choose our practice to serve your family’s needs and we pledge to do our very best.