Kristen Kandel, Psy.D.

With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, a Doctorate in Psychology (Psy.D.) and School Psychologist certification, I specialize in supporting children, teens, young adults and families struggling to manage the social, emotional and academic demands of daily life. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all solution. Whether we are working through symptoms related to anxiety, depression, ADHD or the complexities of an ASD diagnosis, my approach is individualized and collaborative. My school psychology background coupled with my experience working in community mental health lends me a unique perspective in working with high need youths, specifically children struggling with school avoidance, social anxiety and peer relationships. I draw from my extensive history to help families bridge the gap between home and school, ensuring that the progress we make in therapy translates to a better quality of life in the classroom and beyond. I am particularly passionate about supporting those who feel "hard to reach" or who have struggled to find success. My goal is to help you or your child develop the coping skills, resilience, and self-understanding needed to move from a state of crisis to a state of thriving. Client Feedback: “After I go to a meeting, I feel refreshed. Dr. Kandel and I are very similar, and she helps me appreciate things in my life I might have overlooked. Most therapists do not really click with me, but I feel that me and Dr. Kandel definitely have clicked…I think she helps me hold myself accountable, and keeps me focused and oriented on what should matter most to me at this stage in life. Therapy has given me the confidence to do things I normally would have a hard time with. I find myself laying down more boundaries, even though it is hard for me to tell people "no", which I feel is a big help.” “Dr. Kandel has been a godsend for both my son and I. She has helped me be a better parent to my son but more importantly she has helped my son develop healthy coping skills. I attribute my son's incredible success at school to her guidance and counseling. I can't say enough good things about Dr. Kandel's clinical work with us.” “Dr. Kandel has provided a consistent and positive approach in a safe space for my child. In fact, I don't think we would be where we are today without Dr. Kandel. My daughter's behavior this year is so different from the previous 3 years - she is now present in her life - she is working very hard to be more independent and responsible for herself and not let others distract her from her goals and happiness. And last, my relationship with my daughter has improved and we have a better understanding of each other.” LICENSE: Practicing Psychologist New Jersey State Board of Psychological Examiners issued September 2025 CERTIFICATION:School Psychologist State of New Jersey issued November 2011 Certification number 839302 EDUCATION: Fairleigh Dickinson University, Teaneck, NJ Psy.D. Psychology May 2023 Fairleigh Dickinson University, Teaneck, NJ Post Master's Certification Program in School Psychology January 2010- October 2011 Seton Hall University, South Orange, NJ Post Master's study in Counseling (15 credits completed) Summer 1999- Summer 2001 William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ M.A. Social Sciences with a concentration in Psychology August 1996 The George Washington University, Washington, DC B.A. Psychology (Sociology Minor) May 1992 RESEARCH: Kandel, K. J. G. (2023). Special education placement for emotionally disturbed students with internalizing behaviors: National trends [Doctoral dissertation, Fairleigh Dickinson University]. ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global. WORK EXPERIENCE: School District of the Chatham, Chatham, NJ Mental Health Clinician Aspire Tier 3 Mental Health Counseling Program February 2022-present Fairleigh Dickinson University, Teaneck, NJ Practicum Student Supervisor Supportive Schools Newark Program September 2021-June 2023 Jefferson Township Schools, Oak Ridge, NJ School Psychologist Department of Special Services Elementary and Middle Schools September 2012-February 2022 Paterson Public Schools, Paterson, NJ School Psychologist Department of Special Services The New Roberto Clemente School & Dale Avenue School April 2012-June 2012 Mental Health Clinic of Passaic, Passaic, NJ Mental Health Clinician School Based Youth Services (SBYS) Lincoln Middle School December 2008- April 2012 Care Plus-NJ, Paramus, NJ Clinical Manager Integrated Case Management Services (ICMS) May 1997- January 2000 Comprehensive Behavioral Healthcare, Inc., Lyndhurst, NJ Outpatient Case Manager Outpatient Department November 1995- May 1997 Comprehensive Behavioral Healthcare, Inc., Hackensack, NJ Clinical Case Manager Clinical Case Management Program (CCM) April 1994- November 1995 The Arc of Bergen and Passaic Counties, Inc., Hackensack, NJ Group Home Coordinator Residential Program August 1993-March 1994 The Arc of Bergen and Passaic Counties, Inc., Hackensack, NJ Support Counselor Independent Living Program June 1992-August 1993 VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE: Psychiatric Emergency Screening Program/ 262-HELP—Paramus NJ Best Buddies—Washington DC DC Hotline – Washington DC Exodus Youth Services – Washington DC