Capa Psychology: Child & Adolescent Psychology Associates

Dr. Shelli Deskins is a licensed clinical psychologist based in northern Kentucky, specializing in treating children, adolescents, and their families who present with a variety of concerns, including ADHD, ASD, anxiety, depression, adjustment, trauma, and general behavioral and parenting issues. Her cognitive-behavioral approach to treatment emphasizes the strengths of both the child and the family. As one of the leading psychologists in Cincinnati, Ohio, Dr. Deskins frequently consults with other providers, such as physicians and speech-language pathologists, to offer the best possible care. Typically, she sees younger children and their caregivers together, highlighting the importance of adult involvement in the treatment process.

Before entering private practice in 2022, Dr. Deskins worked at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC) in the Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics (DDBP) for over seven years. During her tenure, she treated children with developmental disabilities experiencing mild to moderate behavioral concerns on an outpatient basis and provided inpatient services for those with more severe behavioral issues. Dr. Deskins also delivered Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and emotional regulation services.

Her career has centered on the assessment and treatment of individuals with developmental disabilities, trauma, and behavioral concerns. Prior to her work at CCHMC, she served as an Assistant Professor at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, focusing on trauma treatment. Additionally, Dr. Deskins established and directed the Highlands Center for Autism, the first center-based Applied Behavior Analytic program in Kentucky, for six years.

Dr. Deskins earned her undergraduate degrees in psychology and social work from the University of Kentucky. She pursued her Master’s and Ph.D. in clinical psychology at Auburn University and completed her clinical internship at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center Child Study Center and Center for Child Abuse and Neglect, focusing on child abuse and neglect as well as PCIT. Furthermore, she completed two postdoctoral fellowships at West Virginia University and the University of Kentucky.

As a member of the American Psychological Association and the Ohio Psychological Association, Dr. Deskins is also a board member of the Cincinnati Academy of Professional Psychology. Previously, she served as Vice Chair of the Kentucky Applied Behavior Analyst Licensing Board from 2010 to 2012 and as chair from 2012 to 2014. Originally from eastern Kentucky, she now resides with her son in northern Kentucky. Outside of her professional commitments, Dr. Deskins enjoys spending time with family and friends and has a keen interest in nutrition and fitness.