Position Aware Button
White Arrow Black Arrow

Unleashing Imagination: A Pediatrician's Journey

With Dr. Patricia Riba

Video Player

Stories to Solutions

When the pandemic hit and mental health resources became scarce, Dr. Patricia didn't just identify the problem—she created a solution. Drawing from her childhood love of birds and imagination, she developed an innovative children's program that uses play to teach healthy habits and emotional regulation. The program, now reaching over 25,000 students and available in four languages, combines nutrition education, mental health support, and literacy in a way that speaks directly to children. Dr. Patricia's vision extends beyond individual treatment. Her eight-prong program, awaiting funding through L.A. County Department of Mental Health, aims to create systemic change in how we approach children's health. From advocating for healthier school food options to developing multi-language educational content, she's working to ensure that every child has access to comprehensive health support that addresses both body and mind. "If every child has the opportunity to not worry about food or where they're going to sleep or the well-being of their parents... I think in one month our whole world would change." - Dr. Patricia

When the pandemic hit and mental health resources became scarce, Dr. Patricia didn't just identify the problem—she created a solution. Drawing from her childhood love of birds and imagination, she developed an innovative children's program that uses play to teach healthy habits and emotional regulation. The program, now reaching over 25,000 students and available in four languages, combines nutrition education, mental health support, and literacy in a way that speaks directly to children. Dr. Patricia's vision extends beyond individual treatment. Her eight-prong program, awaiting funding through L.A. County Department of Mental Health, aims to create systemic change in how we approach children's health. From advocating for healthier school food options to developing multi-language educational content, she's working to ensure that every child has access to comprehensive health support that addresses both body and mind. "If every child has the opportunity to not worry about food or where they're going to sleep or the well-being of their parents... I think in one month our whole world would change." - Dr. Patricia
See More
See Less
Links to Solutions
Meet People Where They Are
Success in healthcare isn't about imposing rigid rules—it's about understanding each family's unique situation and creating solutions that work within their reality. Dr. Patricia's approach proves that sustainable health changes come from working with, not against, family dynamics and cultural connections.
Prevention Starts with Imagination
By combining creativity with clinical expertise, Dr. Patricia shows how innovative approaches like puppet-based learning can make health education more engaging and effective for young children, potentially preventing health issues before they begin.
Mental Health is Physical Health
The success of Dr. Patricia's program demonstrates that addressing mental health and emotional well-being is crucial for achieving positive physical health outcomes. Her integrated approach shows how breaking down the barriers between mental and physical healthcare leads to better results for everyone.
Meet Our Guest
Dr. Patricia Riba
Dr. Patricia Riba is a board-certified pediatrician based in Orange County, California, affiliated with CHOC Hospital. She is a specialist in childhood obesity and the founder of Serving Kids Hope, a non-profit organization focused on preventing and treating nutrition-related health issues in children. Dr. Riba is also the Medical Director and CEO of Dr. Riba's Health Club, where she leads a multidisciplinary team to support underserved families through personalized care and educational programs. Her work is deeply rooted in her commitment to improving children's health and nutrition, particularly in addressing obesity.
Connect to Dr. Patricia Riba
Instagram  https://www.instagram.com/servingkidshope/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/dr-patricia-md/