Helping Kids Express What’s Hard to Put Into Words

Sometimes big feelings come out as big behaviors. I understand how tough it can be when your child or teen seems angry, withdrawn, or anxious — and you’re not sure what’s really going on underneath. I believe that these moments are often your child’s way of saying, “I’m struggling, but I don’t know how to tell you.”

It can be tough to see your child struggling.

With frustration, with focus, with big emotions… especially when every day feels like a battle to get through homework, transitions, or social challenges. I understand how hard that can be, and I love helping kids and teens strengthen the skills they need to feel more capable and in control.

As a therapist at Compassionate Counseling St. Louis, I specialize in supporting children and teens with ADHD, anxiety, and emotional regulation challenges. Many of the kids I work with are bright, sensitive, and creative but have trouble managing frustration, following through, or calming their minds when things feel overwhelming.

In therapy, we build practical tools together — things like turn-taking, frustration tolerance, problem-solving, and mindfulness. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), along with creative and play-based approaches, to help kids practice these skills in ways that feel natural and engaging.

Building Real-Life Skills Through Connection

I believe that therapy works best when kids feel safe, understood, and supported. Whether we’re talking, drawing, or playing a quick game, my focus is always on helping them grow self-awareness and learn new strategies they can use outside of session.

I also help families understand the overlap between anxiety, anger, and focus challenges. Many anxious kids are misdiagnosed or suspected of having ADHD — or have both. By understanding what’s really going on underneath, we can help your child develop healthier coping skills and feel calmer and more confident day to day.

Next Steps: Let’s Connect

If you’re looking for a therapist who can help your child or teen build real-world coping skills and emotional confidence, I’d love to connect. You can start with a free 15-minute phone consultation with our intake coordinator to see if I’m the right fit for your family.

I offer in-person sessions at our Clayton office and virtual therapy options for families throughout Missouri. I look forward to helping your child find balance, focus, and self-confidence — one skill at a time.

Credentials:

• MA of Counseling, Cum Laude, Covenant Theological Seminary, St. Louis, MO 2019

• BS of Commerce, University of Virginia, McIntire School of Commerce, Charlottesville, VA 2006