Dr. Kretz is a licensed psychologist in the state of California (PSY#18198). He earned his doctoral degree from Pepperdine University in 1999. Since then, he has worked extensively with children and adolescents in a wide range of settings and for a wide range of behavioral, academic and emotional challenges. Before joining the Pediatric and Adolescent Psychology Associates (PAPA) team in 2000, Dr. Kretz was the Clinical Director at the Morning Sky School, a residential facility for adolescent boys with severe behavior problems. At PAPA, Dr. Kretz provides both psychotherapy and assessment services. In therapy, he works most often with problems involving explosive anger, oppositional behavior, and high levels of parent-child conflict.
Dr. Kretz is highly experienced in psychological and psycho-educational testing, working with children, adolescents, young adults and adults. He offers comprehensive testing batteries, both privately and Independent Educational Evaluations for local public school districts. Test results place an emphasis on practical interventions as well as in linking parents to specific services or professionals to address areas of concern. Dr. Kretz has taught psychological testing and child therapy at several local graduate psychology programs and has supervised psychology interns in both testing and therapy. He is also currently the Director of Clinical Training at the APA accredited doctoral internship program at The Health Group in Sherman Oaks, CA.
Dr. Kretz is also an experienced public speaker, having lectured on brain development and managing problem behaviors at community mental health clinics, local public schools and universities, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and the UC Hospital system.
Where are you located?
Pediatric and Adolescent Psychology Associates, 15409 Dickens Street, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403, USA
How do I make an appointment?
To reach Dr. Kretz, call (818) 986-4362 extension 5. Dr. Kretz will promptly return the call and an initial appointment will be arranged, preferably involving both parents. During this appointment, arrangements will also be made for a meeting between Dr. Kretz and the child.
What ages do you work with?
Dr. Kretz works with individuals spanning from kindergarten through graduate school.
What if my child does not want to come to the office?
Dr. Kretz will support your family to create positive associations with office visits by building your child's confidence, ensuring their comfort, encouraging active participation, and fostering engagement.
Do you prescribe medication?
No; a pediatrician or psychiatrist would prescribe any medication that might be a part of your or your child's care.
What are your rates?
Rates for both testing and therapy are in the industry average. Call to discuss your particular situation.
Do you take insurance?
Dr. Kretz is not affiliated with any insurance panels. If your insurance is an HMO, you will not be able to gain reimbursement for any costs. If you have a PPO, it is likely that you have an out of network benefit. In such cases, you would need to submit Dr. Kretz's invoice to your insurance claims department to potentially receive reimbursement for psychotherapy or psychological testing services. Many families have received partial reimbursement from their insurance providers while collaborating with Dr. Kretz. It is advisable to contact your insurance company to ascertain the specifics of your plan benefits.