Cynthia L. Poole, PsyD
Child & Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Poole is a child and clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience supporting children, adults, and families throughout the Finger Lakes. She offers practical, evidence-based care in a welcoming, down-to-earth environment where clients feel understood, supported, and at ease—often with the help of her “therapy dog,” Chico, who joins most sessions.
Dr. Poole specializes in working with children experiencing anxiety, mood difficulties, emotional regulation challenges, ADHD, learning differences, and school-related concerns. She also has extensive experience supporting children on the autism spectrum, addressing behavioral and anger management challenges, and strengthening parent-child relationships during times of family stress.
Her approach is collaborative and strengths-based, grounded in the belief that meaningful progress happens when therapists and families work as a team. Dr. Poole brings her clinical expertise, while parents bring their deep knowledge of their child—together creating practical, real-world solutions. She tailors therapy to each child’s developmental level, using play therapy, art, sand tray, puppets, games, and conversation to help children express themselves in ways that feel natural and safe. Chico’s calming presence often helps children—and parents—feel more relaxed and open from the very first session.
Dr. Poole earned her Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in 1999 and her Master’s degree in School Psychology in 1997, both from Alfred University. She completed a dual pre-doctoral internship with Steuben County Community Mental Health and Wayland-Cohocton Schools. Her professional background includes serving as a staff psychologist with Steuben County Children and Family Services and as a mental health consultant for Head Start from 1998 to 2005.
Dr. Poole has maintained a full-time private practice at The Counseling Place since 2000 and is a partner in Boike Professional Building, LLC and Westside Practice Management, LLC. She has published research on reducing family conflict in adolescents through detriangulation strategies and co-authored a peer-reviewed study examining potential bias in the Differential Ability Scales.
Outside of the office, Dr. Poole enjoys walking the trails around Canandaigua Lake with Chico, reading a good mystery, and spending time with her grown children and grandchildren. She continues to find joy in the “aha” moments that remind her why she loves this work.
