Dr. Claar uses only evidence-based treatments that are supported by research to ensure the best care. For over 15 years, she has provided Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help improve mood and reduce stress and anxiety. She also incorporates relaxation training, biofeedback, and hypnosis in the treatment of anxiety and pain. She focuses on helping children, adolescents, young adults and parents learn coping skills so that treatment can be effective quickly.

Dr. Claar attended Duke University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology.  She then earned both a Masters of Science degree and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Clinical Psychology from Vanderbilt University with a concentration in Clinical Child Psychology.

After completing her internship at Rush University Medical Center, Dr. Claar worked as a Clinical Associate at Duke University Medical Center providing assessments and treatments for patients and families undergoing organ transplants. Dr. Claar then worked as an Attending Psychologist at Boston Children's Hospital for eight years providing treatment to children, adolescents, young adults, and families before returning to North Carolina and opening her private practice. Dr. Claar also worked as a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Gastroenterology at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine.

Dr. Claar has authored over 30 professional articles and book chapters on the relations among stress, anxiety, depression, coping, parenting and illness. Dr. Claar continues to collaborate on research with psychologists and physicians at the University of North Carolina. In addition, she has taught and supervised graduate students, fellows, and residents in CBT, hypnosis, biofeedback, and pain management. She continues to maintain professional affiliations with the American Psychological Association and the Society of Pediatric Psychology.