Mental Health Services for Children, Teens, and Young Adults in Central Florida

Hi, I’m Farah.

I’m a licensed school psychologist and the founder of Maitland Mental Health Co. I’ve spent over a decade working with children, teens, and families in Florida schools and private practice. Much of my work focuses on making sense of learning, attention, and emotional challenges that don’t always come with clear answers.

My work is grounded in understanding how kids actually function in school, not just on paper, but day to day. I care deeply about being thoughtful, honest, and easy to talk to, and I want families to leave our work together feeling informed and clear about what comes next.

Farah Downs, licensed school psychologist specializing in child mental health, seated and smiling.

A little about me

I’m also a mom, a wife, and someone who understands how overwhelming it can feel when your child is struggling and you’re not sure where to turn.

I was born and raised in Alabama, and yes, Roll Tide. I’m half Persian, have strong opinions about good tahdig, and tend to overthink things (a blessing and a curse in this line of work).

Those personal details matter, but what matters more is how they shape the way I work: with warmth, perspective, and respect for the fact that families are doing the best they can with the information they have.

My background and training

I’m a Licensed School Psychologist in Florida and a Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP). Before opening Maitland Mental Health Co., I spent years working in Florida’s public school system, where I conducted educational evaluations, provided counseling support, and worked closely with teachers, administrators, and families.

That experience matters. It means I understand schools from the inside, how decisions get made, how systems work, and where families often feel stuck or unheard.

A note on experience and perspective

Over the years, my work has taken me beyond the therapy room and testing office. I spent nearly a decade working as a school psychologist in Florida’s public school system, including serving on crisis response teams supporting students and families during some of the most difficult moments schools can face. That experience shaped how I work. It taught me to lead with steadiness, care, and a deep respect for the trust families place in me.

I’m regularly invited to speak with schools and community organizations about child development, learning, and mental health. I’ve also contributed as an expert voice beyond my practice, including being named a University of Alabama Top Alumni Under 40 and contributing to The Everymom. I share this because it reflects the same value that guides my work every day: thoughtful, grounded guidance families can actually use.

What Makes Maitland Mental Health Co. different

We take a thoughtful, school-informed approach to care. Most families come to us looking for clarity, not just reassurance, and that often starts with a psychoeducational evaluation. You don’t need to have everything figured out before you reach out.

From there, support might include guidance around school decisions, accommodations, or, when appropriate and available, therapy. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. We believe in understanding the full picture and helping families make informed choices that actually make sense for their child.

Clients often tell me our office feels less like a clinic and more like a comfortable, welcoming space. That’s intentional. I believe mental health care can be professional without feeling clinical, and supportive without being overwhelming.

Where we’re located

Maitland Mental Health Co. is based in Maitland, Florida, and serves families across Central Florida.

If you’re looking for clarity, thoughtful guidance, and a plan grounded in real understanding, you’re in the right place.

Schedule a consultation

About Maitland Mental Health Co.