Dr. Diana Lea Baranovich is a highly respected psychotherapist and diagnostician who specializes in traumatized children, at-risk youth, and families in transition. As an adoption and family reunification specialist, she offers continuing support and aftercare services. Dr. Baranovich incorporates a variety of therapy techniques, including play dance art and sand tray, to help children communicate effectively, express their emotions, and resolve conflicts in a safe and secure environment.

Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, Dr. Baranovich has built an impressive professional portfolio throughout her career. Her passion for education and child counseling led her to spend 25 years in the public school system as a teacher, counselor, school psychologist, and curriculum coordinator. She also spent 12 years as a university lecturer, research supervisor, and curriculum planner. Dr. Baranovich has a friendly and approachable teaching style that endears her to her students.

As a foster care provider for Texas Children’s Protective Services, Dr. Baranovich gained firsthand experience fostering children from troubled backgrounds. This experience inspired her to specialize in trauma therapy and write her book, “Understanding and Mentoring the Hurt Teenager: When Unconditional Love Is Never Enough.” The book serves as a guide to help troubled teenagers and those who want to work with them.

Dr. Baranovich relocated to Malaysia in 2007 to work as an Associate Professor and Research Supervisor at the Department of Educational Psychology and Counseling, Faculty of Education, University of Malaya. She made significant contributions to the department’s development and growth and is interested in playing a pivotal role in addressing mental health issues and disorders in Southeast Asia.

Dr. Baranovich is a prolific writer, having published three books based on her experience working with relinquished children, children in the system, and children in shelter homes, foster care, and orphanages. Her books are an excellent resource for those who want to help and care for these children and offer a glimpse into her professional approach.

Dr. Baranovich holds a Masters in Guidance and Counseling from Loyola University, a Doctorate of Education in School Counseling Psychology from California Coast University, a Masters of Transpersonal Psychology and Psychotherapy from Graduate Institute of Transpersonal Psychology, and a Doctorate of Psychology in Clinical Psychology from California Southern University. She also obtained an Advanced Post Graduate Studies in Play Therapy from Capella University and is a Certified Clinical Play Therapy Supervisor and Filial Play Therapy Coach at Play Therapy International in the UK.

Dr. Baranovich currently runs a private psychotherapy practice in Kuala Lumpur. Her expertise in trauma therapy and dedication to helping children, at-risk youth, and families in transition have earned her a well-deserved reputation as a leading psychotherapist in the field.