“I strive to meet my patients and their families where they are and work collaboratively to support their behavioral health and well-being."
Kristina Kochanova, Ph.D., is a pediatric psychologist who helps children and families with a wide variety of conditions and medical concerns that impact their mental health. She treats patients for anxiety, depression and trauma that frequently happen with medical illnesses or injury. She often provides support with coping during medical hospitalizations and facilitates ongoing needs after discharge.
She sees patients at Marshfield Children's Hospital and maintains an outpatient practice in behavioral health.
Dr. Kochanova supports patients as they adjust to new medical conditions and works with families to ensure they understand treatment plans. She bridges communication between providers and families, making complex information clear and accessible for both adults and children.
Her goal is to help patients have better experiences in their health care. “I start with meeting patients and families where they are," Dr. Kochanova said. “I ask about their needs, questions and concerns, listening to them and validating their experiences. I then look where we can help provide more information or clarification, as well as opportunities for collaboration between patient, family and medical providers."
As part of multidisciplinary care teams, Dr. Kochanova helps patients and families navigate complications and medical needs, ensuring they understand the scope of care. She works with them to problem-solve and make progress toward their goals. This collaboration supports the care team in developing flexible treatment plans that adapt as patients work toward achieving their health objectives.
“There's so much in your physical health that affects your mental health and vice versa. It's my hope that I bridge the gap of those two areas to help pediatric patients and their families feel comfortable in their care."
Dr. Kochanova earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology from Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, Illinois. She completed her internship at Rogers Behavioral Health and pediatric psychology fellowship at Marshfield Children's Hospital.
While not at work, Dr. Kochanova enjoys reading books, spending time with her family, traveling and being outdoors.