Barbara Koval, CPNP
With more than two decades of experience in pediatrics, Barbara brings a unique combination of clinical expertise, compassion, and a genuine love for caring for children and their families.
Barbara earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Jacksonville University and began her career as a registered nurse in pediatric intensive care and trauma. After moving to Atlanta, she joined the Emergency Department at Egleston Children’s Hospital while completing her Master of Science in Nursing at Emory University and becoming certified as a Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner.
Her early career was rooted in pediatric emergency medicine, where she cared for children at Egleston, Scottish Rite, and Gwinnett Medical Center. Working alongside experienced pediatric physicians in these fast-paced environments provided Barbara with an exceptional clinical foundation and the ability to care confidently for children with a wide range of medical needs.
In 2013, Barbara transitioned to pediatric primary care and discovered what would become one of the most rewarding aspects of her career: the opportunity to truly know her patients and their families. She values the relationships that develop over time and considers it a privilege to support parents through the many stages of raising a child—from the first days at home with a newborn through the school years and adolescence.
Barbara has a particular passion for newborn care and supporting new parents. Recognizing how exciting and overwhelming the early months of parenthood can be, she became a certified lactation specialist and went on to establish a lactation program within her previous pediatric practice. She especially enjoys helping families navigate feeding concerns, newborn care, and the many questions that naturally come with welcoming a new baby.
She also has a special interest in the emotional and mental well-being of school-age children and adolescents. Barbara approaches these concerns with compassion and without judgment, taking the time to listen to both children and parents. She believes strongly in helping families understand that mental health challenges are treatable and partnering with them to develop thoughtful, individualized plans that help children feel their best and thrive.
For Barbara, joining East Cobb Pediatrics is especially meaningful because East Cobb is also home. She lives in the community with her husband and three children and appreciates the opportunity to care for families in the same community where she has raised her own.
Outside the office, Barbara enjoys traveling, exercising, and playing tennis. Most weekends, however, you’ll find her doing what she loves most—spending time with her family and cheering for her kids from the sidelines of a lacrosse field.
Barbara is delighted to bring her years of pediatric experience to East Cobb Pediatrics and looks forward to building lasting relationships with her patients and their families. Her goal is simple: to provide thoughtful, knowledgeable, and compassionate care while helping parents feel supported and confident at every stage of their child’s journey.
