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Hi! I'm Dr. Yana Sirotkin
I'm a developmental psychologist, teacher, and researcher with over fifteen years of experience working with children and families. I've spent my career learning about how children grow, develop attachments, and learn to manage their emotions and behaviors.
At the University of South Florida, my research focuses on how parents work together and how this affects their children's emotional development.
Beyond my research, I've worked directly with hundreds of families in both the US and around the world, helping parents navigate challenges and build on their strengths.
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I believe in creating personalized approaches for each family I work with. What works for one child or parent might not work for another, and that's okay!
My goal is to partner with you to find solutions that fit your family's unique situation.
As a mom of two kids myself, I understand that parenting can be both incredibly rewarding and surprisingly tough. I bring both my professional knowledge and personal experience to each consultation, offering practical strategies that actually work in real homes with real families.
I'm here to support you in becoming the parent you want to be—not by telling you what to do, but by helping you discover approaches that feel right for your family.
My Story
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My Approach
Developmental Partnership
Parenting is one of life’s most meaningful journeys—and also one of the most complex.
As an applied developmental psychologist with years of hands-on experience in both research and real-world family settings, I understand just how layered parenting can be. You know your child better than anyone else—you're the expert on them. My role is to bring in the science of development and psychology to support you in navigating the tough moments with confidence and clarity.
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When a child acts out, seems constantly anxious, or withdraws emotionally, it doesn’t just impact them—it touches the whole family. And while time can help, there’s often a more effective, more compassionate path forward. That’s where I come in.
I’m here for you if:
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You’re looking for practical, evidence-informed tools to manage challenging behaviors.
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You want deeper insight into what your child is feeling and why they’re acting the way they are.
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You’re hoping to build a stronger, more connected relationship with your child—one that lasts a lifetime.
You’re in the right place
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I work with you, not just for you—bringing a collaborative, family-centered approach to every step of the process. Together, we’ll look beneath the surface of your child’s behavior to understand the full picture: their developmental stage, personality, and the unique context of your family life.
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution here. We’ll tailor strategies that are meaningful, realistic, and sustainable for your specific family dynamic. I offer ongoing support between sessions so you’re never navigating this path alone—and so you can see real, measurable progress over time.
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For older children and teens, I take a two-part approach - working directly with your child while also providing guidance to you as parents. I create a safe space for your child to explore their emotions and learn new coping skills, while simultaneously supporting you with the tools to strengthen your relationship with them.
My ultimate goal? To empower you as a parent—to help you feel not only more confident, but more equipped, with strategies that truly work in the messy, beautiful reality of everyday life.
Difference between Parenting Consultations and Therapy
Therapists are licensed to diagnose and treat behavioral health conditions, and they may dig dipper to understand the cause of the current challenge you are dealing with. The therapist’s job is to guide you to a deeper understanding and management of your mental health concerns.
A parenting consultant or coach, on the other hand, focuses more on the present and future — working with parents, kids, or teens to improve the wellbeing of the entire family. Parental consultation is a relationship focused on helping you become the parent you want to be for your children.
As a parent consultant and child coach, I do not provide therapy. My role is to provide education, support, and encouragement as you begin to implement new strategies and techniques in your home. While I bring my expertise in child development, you are the expert on your child. Together, we will work as a team and if it is needed or desired, I will also include direct coaching of your child to help them tackle challenges and develop skills they will use to thrive in the long-term. One of the main components in my work is to facilitate more effective parent-child communication and improve the relationships with your children, so that parenting can truly be a rewarding experience for you.