Maryland Licensed Psychologist

I have over three decades of experience, which includes 29 years working at JHU’s Center for Talented Youth. Research and comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations are the foundation of my expertise in cognition, giftedness, learning disabilities, and twice-exceptionality. I understand children’s unique combination of abilities and other qualities that impact their lives. Not all children, even bright children, are alike in their academic, emotional, and social needs.

  • Doctorate degree in applied developmental psychology from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County

  • Longstanding member of the Maryland Psychological Association 

  • Recipient of two American Mensa Education and Research Foundation awards

Karen Mickenberg

Karen E. Mickenberg, Ph.D.

My Story and Commitment

“You don't inspire people by revealing your super powers; you inspire people by helping them reveal their own super powers.”— Alexander den Heijer

“You don't inspire people by revealing your super powers; you inspire people by helping them reveal their own super powers.”

— Alexander den Heijer

I was an engaged student educated in the Montgomery County, Maryland school system. As a teen, I was fascinated with how we learn and retain information. With aspirations to become a child psychologist, I pursued undergraduate and graduate degrees at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

I started research at CTY-JHU publishing articles on bright children’s motivation, self-perceptions, and perfectionism. I later conducted comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations to help parents and educators better understand each child’s combination of cognitive abilities, academic skills, personality, and social-emotional development.

Comprehensive evaluations provide critical information for determining if a child has significant weaknesses holding them back and if twice-exceptionality should be considered. My goal is to tell each child’s story and to make educational recommendations best supporting the child now and in the future.

After retiring early from JHU in 2020, I was motivated (by my own passions and by loyal families) to continue serving bright children. I continue to reside in Maryland with my husband and two children.