Child Play Therapy in Knoxville
I’m a child therapist in Knoxville, TN, specializing in working with sensitive kids who struggle with anxiety, overwhelm, self-doubt, or feeling unsure of themselves.
I understand how hard it can be for parents to see their child struggling and not know how to support them. Lots of sensitive kids feel things deeply, worry about getting things wrong, or have a hard time putting their experiences into words. My goal is to provide a space where kids feel safe, understood, and accepted so they can begin to express themselves and build confidence.
My journey in helping children began with a strong foundation in fine arts. Graduating from The University of Georgia with a BFA in Interior Design, I developed a deep understanding of aesthetics and creativity. However, my interest in psychology and a genuine desire to assist kids led me on a new path. I returned to graduate school to obtain my master's degree in clinical social work, ultimately becoming an LCSW and fulfilling my dream of working with children in a private practice setting.
Growing up, I personally experienced the complexities that can emerge from familial circumstances, instilling in me a profound understanding of the impact these challenges can have on children. This understanding developed a passion in me to become a supportive force for children in need. It was from this experience that I developed empathy and a strong commitment to becoming a trained therapist to help provide the unique support children require.
My fine arts background played a significant role in shaping my therapeutic approach. Through my formal art training, I discovered the profound therapeutic and healing benefits of art creation. Nature also became a vital source of inspiration during my artistic journey. Drawing from the beauty and serenity found in the natural world, I was able to create some of my most successful works of art. Combining my creative background with my clinical mental health training, I found my calling in working with children through the transformative power of creative therapies, particularly play therapy.
In my practice, I provide a safe and supportive space for kids where they can explore whatever they're feeling, express themselves through play, and grow in confidence, self-understanding, and self-trust.
If this resonates with you, I welcome you to reach out.
MY APPROACH
Creativity • PLAY • Nature • Wellbeing
My therapeutic approach combines evidence-based practices with the natural ways kids express themselves: through play, creativity, imagination, and connection. Kids communicate through more than words. Through play therapy, they have the opportunity to explore their emotions, make sense of experiences, build confidence, and discover their own strengths in a way that feels natural and developmentally appropriate.
My creative background in art and my love for nature have shaped the way I work with children. I incorporate creativity and nature-based experiences to help children feel grounded, connected, and comfortable being themselves.
I firmly believe that therapy can be a valuable resource for anyone, irrespective of whether they carry a formal diagnosis. Imperfection is a natural part of the human experience... something we all share, no matter our age or stage in life. And therapy is not about changing who a child is. It's about helping them better understand themselves, feel accepted, and develop the confidence to work through challenges in safe and healthy ways.
My goal is to provide a caring, safe and supportive space where kids can better understand themselves, express what they're experiencing and move toward healing, growth, wellbeing and a stronger sense of who they are.
Parents, you don't have to navigate this season of your child's life alone.
​
“We don’t have to do all of it alone, we were never meant to.”
-Brené Brown
