Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah MacArthur.
Hi Sarah, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Coming from a big family where people often talked over one another, I quickly learned the value of listening and observing. I originally wanted to become a social worker after feeling helpless watching kids go through trauma without the support they needed. But I soon realized I wanted to be closer to the children themselves—on the floor, playing, connecting, and trying to understand the “why” behind their behavior. That’s what led me to pursue a career as a clinical psychologist.
Early in my training, I focused on trauma and worked in a variety of clinical settings. Over time, I found myself increasingly drawn to assessment. I loved the process of helping kids and their families better understand their strengths and where they might need support. From 2012 to 2024, I conducted developmental evaluations at a community clinic, gaining deep experience with a wide range of children.
In 2023, I opened a private pediatric assessment practice in Carlsbad, called Carlsbad Assessment Center for Children. I saw a growing need for evaluations that are not only thorough but also compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to each child. Families were often facing long waitlists or experiences that felt impersonal. I wanted to create something different—a space where children and parents feel seen, understood, and supported from start to finish.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I wish I could say it’s been a smooth road. Just three months after starting my private practice, my younger brother passed away unexpectedly. Coping with that grief while trying to support my clients and be present for my own family made it the hardest year of my life.
On top of that, I quickly realized that while graduate school prepares you well to be a psychologist, it doesn’t teach you how to run a business. I’ve had to teach myself everything from accounting to marketing—I’ve probably listened to every podcast out there about running a private practice. It’s been a steep learning curve, but also incredibly empowering. I used to teach statistics to undergraduate students, and my love for numbers and Excel sheets has fortunately made this part fun and motivating.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I started my private practice to offer thoughtful, comprehensive pediatric assessments for families seeking clarity and understanding about their child. Too often, kids are missed or misdiagnosed because they’re doing “well enough” in school or because evaluations are rushed and surface-level.
I specialize in assessing autism, ADHD, anxiety, mood concerns, and learning differences—particularly in kids and teens with subtle presentations who may mask symptoms or be easily overlooked. I also conduct early developmental evaluations for children ages 2–5.
My approach is strengths-based, neuroaffirming, and highly personalized. Because I don’t bill insurance directly, I’m able to offer longer, more in-depth evaluations that look at the whole child—not just a diagnosis. Families walk away with clear answers and a better understanding of how their child’s brain works, including areas for support and areas of strength.
What sets me apart is the warm, supportive experience I create. I often hear from families that they felt truly understood—and even that their child enjoyed the process. I am most proud of the kids walking away with a smile and the families feeling like they have clarity and a path forward.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
There are so many great resources and podcasts out there, but what helped me most was connecting with others doing similar work. Instead of seeing others as competition, I leaned into collaboration—learning from their experiences, sharing ideas, and supporting one another through the ups and downs of private practice.
My advice: don’t isolate yourself. Reach out, ask questions, and build community. Some of the best guidance I’ve received came from conversations with other professionals who were just a few steps ahead of me. I have also responded to others who are just starting out and it has been great to help others along the journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://carlsbadassessment.com
Image Credits
profile photo is credited to dlphotos
