Heather (she/her) is a LMSW, located in the Coralville office and primarily works with children, teens and families. She specializes in childhood behavioral concerns, with a focus on social, emotional, and self-regulation skill development. She is currently a Certified Child Life Specialist and is in the process of becoming a Registered Play Therapist (RPT). Heather uses a child-centered play therapy approach with all new clients, ages 3-12, to build a strong therapeutic relationship with each individual child. A child-centered approach allows the child to express their thoughts and feelings through play, while also allowing Heather to understand and assess the child’s needs. Play empowers children to learn coping strategies, increase their self-esteem, process emotions, and heal their mental health needs. Heather additionally uses a variety of therapeutic techniques for children based on their individual needs. The most common ones she uses include: sand tray, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), social/emotional skill development, Adlerian play therapy, art therapy techniques, and attachment skill development.

Heather understands that caregivers and parents know their child best and that consistently is key, so she involves them throughout the therapeutic process. Heather recognizes that play therapy techniques can also be beneficial for individuals ages 13 and up who are looking for a more fun and creative approach to therapy. Play can also be a great way to do shadow work, while learning to understand and heal one’s inner-child for teens and adults. Heather may use techniques such as mindfulness, art, sand tray, or directive play activities. Heather strives to use a strength-based approach when working with individuals. She understands that the components of parent education, psychoeducation, and learning how the brain works is fundamental to the therapeutic process and the personal growth in therapy. All these components can be in the form of individual, caregiver/parent, or family sessions.