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 I understand how tough it can be when your child or teen seems angry, withdrawn, or anxious — and you’re not sure what’s really going on underneath.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 approaches that are based in play and art, 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 the kids and teens that I work with 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:

• Fully Licensed Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Missouri - 2024

• MAC (Counseling) at Covenant Theological Seminary - 2019

• BS Commerce (Finance Concentration), McIntire School of Commerce at University of Virginia - 2006