Dr. Heather M. Richard is a licensed clinical psychologist based in Cincinnati, OH, with a passion for supporting children, adolescents, and young adults navigating sport-related challenges. She has dedicated her career to partnering with young people and families to promote function, resilience, and overall wellness in context of health conditions, sport injuries, and mental health concerns. Her clinical expertise includes psychological aspects of: preparing for surgical procedures/medical treatments, post-surgery rehabilitation, return to sport/function, and pain management.
In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Richard conducts research and speaks at national and international conferences, sharing her expertise and advocating for evidence-based psychological interventions in pediatric orthopedic and sports medicine sub-specialties. She most recently conducted an Instructional Learning Course at the Pediatric Research in Sports Medicine (PRISM) Annual Conference on re-evaluating readiness to return to sport after ACL injury, surgery and rehabilitation.
A Cincinnati native, Dr. Richard spent several years living and working elsewhere before returning home in 2020 with her family. Most recently, she provided specialized interventions as a pediatric psychologist in the Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery/Surgical Sports Medicine services at Nationwide Children's Hospital. Prior to returning to Ohio, she was Director of Psychology Services at Scottish Rite for Children (SRC) in Texas, a leading center for pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine.
She earned her Masters and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, with a specialty in Health Psychology at Nova Southeastern University. During her internship, she worked in medical rehabilitation and pain management with veterans at the North Texas VA. Dr. Richard subsequently completed fellowship in pediatric psychology in orthopedics at SRC. She is licensed in Ohio and Texas and has PsyPACT, allowing her to provide remote care in other states.
Dr. Richard engages young people and families at an appropriate age level, with a keen focus on the individual/family goals of treatment. She offers a practical approach, using brief interventions in an approachable, conversational style.
How Dr. Richard Helps Athletes & Families:
•Navigating the mental and emotional side of sports and performance
•Supporting safe, confident return to sport after injury or surgery
Currently accepting Reduced-Fee Program patients.
