Dr. Kimberly LaCivita “Dr. Kim”
Licensed School Psychologist
With a doctorate in school psychology, Dr. Kim has advanced knowledge and training in the assessment of learning and behavior. As a licensed school psychologist, Sarasota native, and mother of two college-aged children who attended Sarasota district schools, Dr. Kim brings a wealth of experience and passion for working with local youth and families. Dr. Kim is focused on uncovering a child’s individual strengths to help them overcome barriers and reach their full potential. Using a solution-focused, client-centered, and strengths-based approach, Dr. Kim’s goal is to determine underlying difficulties and identify interventions that can positively support educational performance and improve overall health and well-being.
Over the years, Dr. Kim has cultivated valuable relationships with some of the area’s finest agencies and schools, demonstrating her commitment to the development of our community’s youth. Dr. Kim’s unique background provides her with a distinct perspective and cultural awareness when working with diverse clients and as a collaborative member of any school-based team. Early in her twenties, Kim served as an AmeriCorps Volunteer working with Sarasota’s most at-risk youth at the Juvenile Alternative Services Program. Prior to receiving her degree at USF, Dr. Kim worked as a Residential Instructor at the Youth Transitional Living Program where she supported the needs of adolescents who were legally emancipated. After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Criminology, she served 11 years as a Law Enforcement Officer and two years as a Child Protective Investigator with the Florida Department of Children and Families. While earning her Master’s degree in Educational Psychology, Dr. Kim worked as a Behavior Specialist for a local alternative second chance school. Her extensive background includes over 7 years of service as the School Psychologist and 504 Coordinator at a charter school on the island of Venice and 10 years evaluating children, adolescents, and young adults in the private practice setting. Additionally, Dr. Kim completed her doctoral hours at Oak Park School, a district center school that provides educational and therapeutic services to over 300 students with disabilities. Dr. Kim is also the proud owner of Finn, a golden retriever who is certified to provide therapeutic support within our local schools.