Hi there! I’m Dr. Heather Kertesz-Briest, a Clinical Pediatric Psychologist with a passion for working with children, teens, and young adults as they navigate acute and chronic medical conditions, functional disorders, and co-occurring psychological challenges. For nearly 15 years, I’ve specialized in assessment and intervention with young people facing a wide range of complex emotional and medical needs. This work brings me joy and purpose every day, and I’m thrilled to be part of the Re+Active team!

 

I was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio (lifelong Cleveland sports superfan here!) and moved to Los Angeles at the start of graduate school. I earned my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Alliant International University California School of Professional Psychology. I then completed a pediatric-focused psychology residency at Children’s Hospital of Michigan and a two-year pediatric-focused fellowship at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. My training and professional experience have taken place entirely in pediatric hospital and medical settings, where I’ve helped children and families navigate complex developmental, psychological, medical, and rehabilitative needs.

 

My approach is rooted in a strong understanding of brain-behavior relationships and the deep connection between emotional, neurological, and physical health. I draw on my training in both pediatric psychology and neuropsychology to understand how general medical conditions and neurological conditions—such as brain injury, acute and chronic illness, functional conditions, and neurodevelopmental disorders—affect thinking, behavior, emotion, learning, daily functioning, and identity. I utilize a biopsychosocial, neuro-rehabilitative framework to help young people develop insight, build resilience, develop tools for coping, and reconnect with their sense of self and purpose during recovery.

 

I tailor each treatment plan to fit the unique strengths and needs of the individual and family, incorporating evidence-based therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based approaches. These interventions help support emotional regulation, identity development, and adaptive coping, especially in the context of medical and neurological stressors. When we first meet, I’ll take time to truly understand your child or teen’s story—their history, symptoms, strengths, and goals. Together, we’ll create a collaborative and individualized treatment plan that is practical, strengths-based, and emotionally meaningful. I also work right alongside your child’s care team to ensure they are supported at every point along their recovery journey.

 

Outside of work, I love spending time with my family, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, and diving into arts and crafts projects.