Our Team
Tara Peterson, PsyD (35302)
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Dr. Tara Peterson is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in neuropsychological assessments across the lifespan. She has extensive experience evaluating autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and mood-related challenges. With a commitment to individualized care, Dr. Peterson tailors her evaluations to provide clients with meaningful insights into their cognitive and emotional functioning, empowering them to make informed decisions and reach their personal goals.
She earned her doctorate in Clinical and Forensic Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Orange County. Early in her career, she worked as a behavioral therapist, providing direct intervention for autistic children and collaborating with families to support social and emotional growth. These formative experiences deepened her appreciation for neurodiversity and continue to shape her assessment philosophy.
Dr. Peterson completed her predoctoral internship at Palomar Medical Center, where she worked with individuals facing complex mental health concerns. She went on to complete a postdoctoral fellowship in neuropsychology, refining her ability to distinguish neurodevelopmental conditions from overlapping presentations, including trauma and mood disorders.
She is particularly dedicated to improving the recognition of autism in teens and adults who may have been misdiagnosed or overlooked due to traditional diagnostic models. Staying at the forefront of emerging research, Dr. Peterson integrates the latest assessment approaches to ensure her evaluations are comprehensive, affirming, and aligned with each individual’s unique neurodevelopmental profile. She values helping clients and families better understand themselves, build self-advocacy skills, and navigate life with confidence.
Samantha Wilson, PsyD (34430), LCSW (76389)
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Dr. Samantha D. Wilson is a licensed psychologist (focus is neuropsychology) and board-certified clinical social worker specializing in the assessment and diagnosis of neurodevelopmental and neurocognitive disorders. She holds a Master of Social Work from Columbia University and a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, with a specialization in neuropsychology.
Dr. Wilson completed fellowships in the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) department at UC Davis School of Medicine and Palomar Medical Center, where she focused on neurocognitive disorders associated with underlying medical conditions, including traumatic brain injury (TBI), medical treatments impacting brain function (such as chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment), and neurodegenerative diseases. Her clinical expertise extends to the psychiatric implications of neurological disorders, emphasizing the complex interplay between medical conditions and cognitive-emotional functioning.
In addition to her clinical training, Dr. Wilson pursued advanced education in neuroscience and the biology of disease through the Advanced Bioscience Program at UC Berkeley Extension and the National Academy of Neuropsychology (NAN). As an active participant in NAN’s Leadership and Ambassador Development Programs, she contributes to education, research, and professional development in the field of neuropsychology. She also serves on multiple neuropsychological committees dedicated to improving clinical standards, advancing research, and promoting innovation in neuropsychology.
Dr. Wilson’s current clinical focus includes neurodegenerative diseases, TBI, and neurocognitive disorders, with an emphasis on understanding the intersection of neurological and psychiatric conditions. Her work aims to enhance early identification, comprehensive assessment, and tailored interventions for individuals experiencing cognitive and psychological challenges related to brain function, medical treatments, and injury.