Beginning therapy represents a big step for many families! During this process, you will be encouraged to challenge yourself and your family because “if you do what you’ve always done, you’ll get what you’ve always gotten.”
Next Step Psychology is a child friendly practice that understands that most people seeking psychological services are having some type of difficulty in life that may be causing stress or unpleasant feelings. Next Step is committed to making the process as simple as possible and features a warm, friendly, and familiar atmosphere.
I encourage you to save time by filling out paperwork before your first visit. You will find toys in the waiting room for your children, and free wi-fi is provided for your convenience.
Carolyn Pender Roche, Ph.D.
Carolyn Pender Roche, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist who founded Next Step Psychology in 2013. Prior to opening her own practice, Dr. Pender practiced psychology at Silber Psychological Services from 2009 to 2013 in their Raleigh and Cary office locations. Dr. Pender has over 15 years experience working with children and their families.
Dr. Pender completed her undergraduate degree at McGill University, Montreal Canada, with a major in the Psychology Honours Program, and a double minor in Sociology and Hispanic Studies. She attended the University of South Carolina where she earned her Master’s (M.A.) degree and Doctorate of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in School Psychology. While at USC, Dr. Pender was elected as the President of the Psychology Graduate Student Association (PGSA). Dr. Pender then completed her pre-doctoral internship and a postdoctoral fellowship at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and the Kennedy Krieger Institute where she specialized in Child and Family Therapy and Neuropsychology.
Dr. Pender specializes in the treatment and evaluation of children, adolescents, and families with a wide range of presenting issues. She is also a Parenting Coordinator and assists families in managing high conflict issues, facilitates co-parenting, and addresses general divorce issues. She also enjoys giving presentations on a range of topics to groups and other professionals across a variety of settings.