Alison Riley-Schmida
Dr. Alison Riley-Schmida is a pediatric neuropsychologist and licensed alcohol and drug counselor with advanced training in the assessment and care of children, adolescents, and young adults with complex medical, genetic, neurodevelopmental, and neuropsychiatric conditions. She specializes in evaluating fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), rare neurodegenerative disorders, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, learning disabilities, and acquired brain injuries.
Dr. Riley-Schmida’s vision is to empower children and families as they navigate new diagnoses and developmental changes, with a focus on amplifying the voices of those who have been historically marginalized. She integrates evidence-based interventions and ongoing self-reflection into her clinical practice and is passionate about mentoring future neuropsychologists.
Dr. Riley-Schmida earned her Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Counseling Psychology from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, where her dissertation examined retention and motivating factors in substance-related treatment during pregnancy. She completed her APA-accredited internship in pediatric neuropsychology and pediatric psychology at Children’s Hospital of Michigan, gaining broad experience in multidisciplinary clinics and acute medical settings. She completed a 2-year postdoctoral fellowship in pediatric neuropsychology at the University of Minnesota Medical School, where she conducted comprehensive evaluations, worked with multidisciplinary teams, and supervised practicum students.
Her research interests include treatment engagement in underrepresented groups, neurocognitive outcomes in youth with prenatal alcohol exposure, and diversity in sport. Dr. Riley-Schmida has contributed to curriculum development for mental health education and has held leadership roles in academic and professional organizations.