Dr Michael Rubino

Child Psychotherapist

verified by TherapyRoute

“I work with my patients as team members. We resolve the issues together. I encourage questions and feedback from my patients and parents.”

About Me

As a child psychotherapist, I guide young patients and their families through challenges, believing that teamwork leads to the best outcomes. We explore concerns together, with every session built on open communication. I actively encourage questions and feedback from both children and parents. This collaborative approach ensures everyone feels heard and understood. Together, we find practical ways forward, creating a strong foundation for lasting well-being.

Approach

Sessions feel like team meetings where questions shape next steps and parents’ observations become part of the plan. In Pleasant Hill and online, and when families prefer Italian or Spanish, I keep the work practical: short check-ins, clear goals, and room for kids to lead at their own pace. I use careful tracking and simple experiments between visits—small steps at school or home we review together. That steady, collaborative rhythm tends to help adolescents, parents, and couples who want clear, achievable progress.

Contact Michael

Ask a quick question or arrange a time to meet.

Basic Information

Pleasant Hill, United States

Services

I specialize in treating children, teenagers, trauma victims and first responders. I have been treating children and teenagers for 30 years. I do specialize in children and teenagers who are diagnosed with ADHD, Autism, Bipolar disorder and porn addiction. In addition I work with parents and families who are struggling getting IEPs for their children. I Additionally I have been trained in Critical Incident Debriefing and treating trauma victims using EMDR. Furthermore, I have been specifically trained in treating police officers, firefighters, EMT and emergency room personnel

Services Offered:

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Advocacy
Services that help individuals navigate healthcare, education, or social systems to ensure their mental health needs are recognised and met.
Learn more about Advocacy
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Assessment
A structured evaluation of mental health, cognitive functioning, or emotional well-being used to guide diagnosis and treatment planning.
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Child / Adolescent Therapy
Therapy for children and teenagers using age-appropriate methods, such as play, art, or adapted talk therapy, to address emotional and behavioural difficulties.
Learn more about Child / Adolescent Therapy
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Counseling
A form of talk therapy providing a safe, confidential space to explore feelings, thoughts, and behaviours with a trained professional.
Learn more about Counseling
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Trauma Counseling
Counselling specifically for people affected by traumatic events, focused on processing what happened and reducing symptoms like flashbacks and hypervigilance.
Learn more about Trauma Counseling

Works With:

•Adolescents
•Adults
•Children
•Couples
•Families
•Individuals
•Organisations
•Parents

Area of Expertise

Scope of Practice:

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Relationship Issues
Difficulties in romantic relationships, including communication problems, trust breakdowns, conflict patterns, or uncertainty about the relationship's future.
Learn more about Relationship Issues
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Abuse
Emotional, physical, or sexual mistreatment by another person that causes lasting psychological harm and disrupts a person's sense of safety.
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Adolescent Therapy
Therapy designed for teenagers, using age-appropriate methods to address issues like anxiety, identity, peer pressure, and family conflict.
Learn more about Adolescent Therapy
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Anxiety
Persistent worry, nervousness, or fear that is disproportionate to the situation and interferes with daily functioning.
Learn more about Anxiety
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Anger
An intense emotional response to perceived threat, injustice, or frustration that, when persistent or uncontrolled, can damage relationships and well-being.
Learn more about Anger
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ADHD / Attention
A neurodevelopmental condition involving persistent difficulty with attention, impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity that interferes with daily functioning.
Learn more about ADHD / Attention
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Autism (ASD)
A neurodevelopmental condition affecting social communication, sensory processing, and behaviour patterns, with a wide range of presentations and strengths.
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Mood Disorder
A category of mental health conditions, including depression and bipolar disorder, in which a person's emotional state is significantly and persistently disrupted.
Learn more about Mood Disorder
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Child Psych & Diagnostic Assessment
Formal assessment of a child's psychological, cognitive, or emotional functioning to identify conditions and guide appropriate support.

Professional Title:

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Child Psychotherapist
A psychotherapist specialising in the emotional and psychological needs of children, often using play and creative techniques.