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my story

MORE ABOUT WENDY

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meet wendy

As a Registered Play Therapist, former elementary teacher, and school counselor of 27 years, I have the unique experience of walking alongside and supporting children & families during many challenging seasons. We can sit with the hard things, laugh, cry, celebrate the positive steps in your journey as well as have some fun through play along the way!

MY SPECIALTIES

My approach is client centered and my office is designed to create a safe and welcoming therapeutic space for all who enter to be met with delight & respect. Through play therapy, expressive arts, and EMDR, children will make stronger connections with their own thoughts, feelings, behaviors, families, and the world.  Play looks different for kids of all ages, but the goals remain the same:  learning to express themselves, managing a diagnosis, or building skills  and confidence to navigate family changes, anxiety, or school-related challenges.  Fostering the development of self acceptance, nurturing relationships & connections, and teaching effective coping skills are at the core of my work with children and families.  Nourishing this stronger sense of self in children can empower them to manage stress and overcome obstacles in their personal, academic and social environments.

MY EDUCATION

I earned a Bachelor's of Arts in Elementary Education (1995) & Master's of Education in School Counseling (2002) through undergraduate and graduate programs at UNCW, NCSU, and The University of North Texas. With specialized training in working with children and families & 27 years of experience in the public school system, I have extensive knowledge, skills, and a deep passion for supporting children in overcoming challenges. I am a National Board for Certified Counselor, Registered Play Therapist & EMDR Trained Clinician. 

outside the office

HOW YOUR THERAPIST PLAYS

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my approach

PLAY OVER EVERYTHING

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My theoretic approach integrates pieces from different areas including that of Humanistic (Client-Centered & Gestalt) and Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

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Blend of Directive Play Therapy Games & Activities combined with Client-Centered Non-Directed Play

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Celebrating Growth Along The Way

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my office

WARM & WELCOMING SPACE

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A nonjudgemental therapeutic space

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The space for the beginning directive play therapy part of counseling session which may include bibliotherapy, video snippets, teaching of a skill, mindful movements, and calming skills.

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Learning and growing skills. EMDR may be incorporated.

arts & toys

NOW THE FUN PART

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Nondirective play therapy space includes expressive arts stations, three sandtrays, and is usually the second half of the session

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A space where kids or adults can express themselves using the arts and toys

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EMDR may be incorporated here also

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SHE COULD HAVE TAKEN THE WORLD BY STORM, BUT SHE CHOSE TO

use her sunshine!

need more info?

Are you curious about what you see here, but not yet ready to commit? That’s okay! I’m happy to tell you more about myself, my office, my approach, or my results. Reach out with any questions you might have and I’ll get back with you soon!

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