Jennifer Olson, M.D., F.A.P.A., Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist

Approachable, supportive and experienced, Dr. Jennifer Olson is a board-certified child psychiatrist who works closely with Thrive’s therapists to assist children and families with a variety of mental health issues, such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and developmental disorders, including autism. A good listener and communicator, Jennifer believes in helping families identify their strengths to help overcome their challenges and develop a plan for optimal health.

Her areas of interest include:

  • Offering prevention, early identification and evidence-based treatment of social, developmental, behavioral and emotional disorders
  • Balancing medication management with therapist-provided behavioral treatment and psychotherapy
  • Utilizing integrative care; helping families to connect with their care team to ensure they are fully supported
  • Guiding kids through difficult life transitions, including challenges associated with changing schools, moving and disruptions within their family structure

Experience

Since 2013, Jennifer has worked in the Eugene-Springfield area, providing child and adult psychiatric services. In addition to helping families at Thrive, she provides support to severely abused and neglected children at Jasper Mountain SAFE Center, as well as working at Good Samaritan Mental Health’s in-patient care unit in Corvallis.

Education

A native Oregonian, Jennifer graduated cum laude from Oregon State University Honors College, where she received a bachelor’s degree in zoology, with minors in chemistry and anthropology. She earned her Medical Doctorate from the University of Minnesota Medical School. She served as chief psychiatric resident and chief fellow at the University of Minnesota Medical Center, where she went on to complete her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship.

Personal interests

Jennifer enjoys cooking and crafting, including vinyl printing, screen printing, knitting, cross stitching and quilting. She’s an avid runner, enjoys traveling with her two sons. She is a big fan of Broadway musicals and likes to attend local musical productions with her family. She is an active volunteer within the community and enjoys the many cultural and outdoor activities offered in the Willamette Valley.