Watching your child struggle with anxiety, intense emotions, or rigid patterns of behavior can feel exhausting and heartbreaking. You may have tried reassurance, strategies, or even previous counseling, only to find that the same worries or cycles keep coming back. I work with children and teens to help them better understand what’s happening inside their minds and bodies and to build skills that lead to meaningful, lasting change.

My work is especially focused on anxiety disorders, OCD, and phobias in kids and teens. I use evidence-based treatments designed specifically for anxiety, including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT), and the SPACE model (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions). These approaches help children gradually face fears, reduce compulsive behaviors, and build confidence, while also supporting parents in responding in ways that decrease anxiety over time.

I also work with teens who are feeling overwhelmed, shut down, or engaging in self-harm behaviors. I focus on building genuine connection and trust, meeting teens where they are rather than approaching therapy as another adult telling them what to do. Together, we work toward safer coping, clearer communication, and a sense of hope during difficult periods.

I also provide Integrative Behavioral Therapy (IBT) for body-focused repetitive behaviors such as skin-picking and hair-pulling, using a compassionate, evidence-based approach to help clients regain a sense of control.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a Certificate in Multicultural & Social Justice Counseling. I am passionate about working with LGBTQ+ clients and other marginalized identities, and as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I strive to create a space where clients feel safe, understood, and respected.

Madeline can be reached at madeline@gaiacounseling.com