Cynthia Zierhut Ursu, Ph.D.
Licensed Clinical Psychologist (CA PSY19810)
dr.zierhut-ursu@earlydays.center
Educational History
1992 University of Colorado at Boulder, Bachelor of Arts
1997 Vanderbilt University; Nashville, Tennessee. Master of Science
2001 University of California Los Angeles, Doctor of Philosophy
Clinical Experience & Clinical Research
2004-Current – Owner, Early Days Autism Center, Sacramento, California. GESDM education program for children ages infants to 48 months with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Specializing in parent-coaching, facilitating playgroups, and preschool implementation (G-ESDM). Certified Early Start Denver Model Lead trainer, provided trainings to professionals from all over the world.
2004-2011 Psychological assessments for children with psychological, behavioral, emotional, and learning issues. Specializing in assessment of Autism Spectrum Disorder for children zero to three. Proficient on a wide variety of neuropsychological assessments. Individual psychotherapy, social and relationship skill based groups and parenting consultations.
2005-2017 – Psychologist II, Department of Psychiatry, University of California, Davis M.I.N.D. Institute. Project Manager of Clinical Trials investigating the efficacy of the Early Start Denver Model, ESDM Training Program Manager.
2011 – 2012 – Clinical Manager, Margot Prior Wing -Autism Specific Early Learning and Care Centre, La Trobe University. The MPW is a 20 place group therapeutic setting for very young children with ASD utilizing the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), the first to evaluate the efficacy of the ESDM in a preschool environment.
2004-2005 – Staff Therapist, Child and Family Center. Outpatient and school based mental health psychotherapist for children, adolescents, and their families in large non-profit community mental health center.
2004-2005 – Counselor, College of the Canyons. Responsible for providing brief individual psychotherapy to college students.
Service
Every Child, President & Founder, Sacramento, CA: Current
Capital Christian Center, Special Needs Ministry Founding Director, 2005-2010
Capital Christian School, Board of Trustees. Sacramento, California: 2006-2010
Child Educational Center, Board of Trustees. La Canada, CA 2000-2003