Q&A with Crystal DeVito

Why do you do what you do? 

In my opinion, there is nothing more important than taking care of children.  

I’ve been a licensed child psychologist for many years and studied for more than a decade to prepare for this rewarding work. My doctoral research focused on parent-child attachment and the ways in which family relationships, child temperament, and parenting styles influence children’s development, behavior, and well-being. I apply this framework with psychological and diagnostic evaluations, and evidence-based treatments for children and families. 

I am dedicated to helping young patients overcome problems with emotional and behavioral dysregulation, anxiety, adjustment issues, and other mental health concerns. Every child is unique, and I enjoy learning about their lives and building therapeutic relationships to achieve goals. 

Parents are under so much pressure, and it’s gratifying to help them better understand and communicate with their children so they gain confidence, strengthen relationships, and can be the parents they want to be.  

What do you specialize in?

I have a particular specialty in young children, especially those with disruptive behavior problems, ADHD, anxiety, mood, and adjustment issues. I complete psychological evaluations, provide child therapy, and I work directly with parents on general parenting, behavior management, and ways to help kids with anxiety and other issues. I also collaborate with schools, pediatricians, and daycares/preschools. 

What do you do at Sheppard Pratt?

I have an outpatient service where I provide evaluation and treatment for children ages 0 to 16 and their families. I also conduct evaluations through The Center for Autism, the Comprehensive Outpatient Psychiatric Evaluation Service, and The Retreat by Sheppard Pratt.

What makes being a psychologist at Sheppard Pratt unique?

Sheppard Pratt has an interdisciplinary model which is incredibly patient-focused. I enjoy collaborating with speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and psychiatrists, and I also appreciate the many specialists at Sheppard Pratt who are available and willing to consult and share their expertise. 

We are training psychology externs to evaluate and treat children across levels of care, which is important work considering the national shortage of child mental health providers.  

How does it feel to see a patient improve and succeed?

I am thrilled when a family reaches out with updates on how things are going. I am honored to play a role in improving children’s lives and know that positive changes early on can grow exponentially, impacting them into adulthood.