What to Expect During Therapy

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Beginning therapy can feel like a big step, and it's natural to wonder what the process will look like. My goal is to create a warm, supportive environment where both you and your child feel comfortable from the very first session.

Getting Started

The first session will be with parents and child and we will begin by talking about your concerns, your child's history, and the situations that are most challenging for your family. Together, we'll identify goals and create a plan that fits your child's unique needs.

How Long Does Therapy Take?

Every child is different, and the length of therapy depends on your family's goals and your child's needs. Some families notice meaningful improvements after just a few sessions, while others benefit from working together over several months. We'll regularly check in about your child's progress and adjust our plan as needed.

My goal isn't for your child to stay in therapy forever. It's to help your child develop confidence, give you practical tools to support them at home, and help your family navigate separations with greater calm and connection.

family on the beach children struggling with separation anxiety
β€œβ€œYou are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” ”
— Christopher Robin
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How Will We Know Therapy Is Working?

Progress in therapy is often gradual, and you may not notice dramatic changes right away. That's completely normal. Healing and building confidence take time, and many of the first signs of progress are small but meaningful.

You might notice that your child recovers more quickly after a difficult goodbye, is willing to try something new with a little encouragement, or needs less reassurance throughout the day. Over time, these small steps begin to add up.

As therapy continues, many parents see school drop-offs become easier, bedtime routines become less stressful, and their child feel more confident spending time away from them. You'll also gain practical tools and a better understanding of how to respond to your child's anxiety in ways that support lasting growth.

Throughout the process, we'll regularly check in about your child's progress and adjust our approach as needed. My goal is to help your child build confidence one step at a time while giving your family the skills to continue making progress long after therapy has ended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime. If you’re feeling ready, go ahead and apply.

Contact Me

  • I offer session with play based therapy techniques for children with separation anxiety and their families.

  • Getting started is simple. Reach out through our contact form or schedule a call- I’ll walk you through the next steps and answer any questions along the way. You can reach me at 512-877-8594 or at marissa@mbcounselingtx.com

  • I believe the strongest outcomes happen when children and parents work together. Through play therapy, EMDR, family sessions, and parent sessions, I help children build confidence while equipping parents with practical tools to support lasting change. My goal is to help your family move from feeling overwhelmed by anxiety to feeling more connected, confident, and at ease. With over 20 years experience working with kids, I use all my knowledge to tailor treatment for your child.

  • You can reach me anytime via our contact page or email at marissa@mbcounselingtx.com aim to respond quicklyβ€”usually within two business day.

  • Yes. I do take some insurances. Please contact me to see which insurance I take.

Child Therapy Blog

Blog
How Avoidance Makes Separation Anxiety Worse
How Avoidance Makes Separation Anxiety Worse
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What Is My Child Really Worried About? Understanding Separation Anxiety in Children
What Is My Child Really Worried About? Understanding Separation Anxiety in Children
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Back to School with Big Feelings: 3 Ways to Support Your Anxious Child
Back to School with Big Feelings: 3 Ways to Support Your Anxious Child
Read more →

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Embracing the ups and downs! 🌈 Remember, it’s okay to NOT be okay. Allow yourself to feel all the emotions - the good, the bad, and the messy. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it, and give yourself permission to make mistak
Embracing the ups and downs! 🌈 Remember, it’s okay to NOT be okay. Allow yourself to feel all the emotions - the good, the bad, and the messy. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it, and give yourself permission to make mistakes. They’re an opportunity to learn and grow! πŸ’ͺ Let’s create a space where we can be vulnerable, authentic, and supportive. Share with us in the comments which one resonated with you? #MentalHealthMatters #SelfCare #VulnerabilityIsStrength #anxious #nervous #therapy #trauma
Feeling like you’re at the mercy of your emotions? Are mood swings, irritability, and anxiety taking over your days? Do physical symptoms like headaches, muscle tension, and insomnia leave you exhausted? You might be experiencing a dysregulated nervous system. But here’s the thing: you’re not alone, and you’re not to blame. A dysregulated nervous system is often a sign that you need more self-care and compassion, not self-criticism. In my practice, I help clients like you find peace and balance by teaching you tools to regulate your nervous system and manage stress. Remember, healing is not about achieving perfection; it’s about embracing your humanity and treating yourself with the same kindness you’d offer to a friend. #nervoussystemregulation #selfcompassion #mentalhealth #selfcare #mentalhealthawareness #counselor #therapist
Let’s break the cycle! Generational trauma, also known as intergenerational trauma, refers to the emotional, psychological, and even physical pain that is passed down through generations. It’s the unresolved hurt, stress, and suffering that our ancestors experienced, which can shape our beliefs, behaviors, and relationships today. Generational trauma can stem from historical events, cultural suppression, systemic oppression, and even family dynamics. It can manifest in our bodies as chronic stress and anxiety, emotional numbness or hypersensitivity, mental health conditions like PTSD, and more. These symptoms can be inherited through epigenetic changes, which affect how our genes are expressed, without altering the DNA itself. It’s like our bodies are remembering the trauma, even if our minds don’t. But here’s the good news: we have the power to break the cycle. Let’s work together to heal trauma and build a legacy of love, resilience, and hope. #BreakTheCycle #GenerationalTrauma #HealingIsPossible #MentalHealthMatters #EmpowermentThroughHealing
Just relax’ - a phrase that may seem harmless, but can be incredibly damaging. When someone tells you to ‘just relax’ or ‘stop overreacting’, it can feel like they’re dismissing your emotions and invalidating your experience. It’s like saying your feelings aren’t real or important. But here’s the truth: your emotions are valid, and they deserve attention and care. As a therapist, I’m here to help you process and understand your feelings, not just suppress them. Let’s work together to develop healthy coping mechanisms and find constructive ways to manage stress and anxiety. You don’t have to ‘just relax’ - you deserve to truly heal, grow, and have your emotions acknowledged. Send me a message to schedule a session! #therapy #mentalhealthmatters #emotionalvalidation #invalidationhurts #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealth #counseling
Let’s break free from the cycle of self-blame! Is your self blame voice so loud you can’t hear anything else? When we’re too hard on ourselves, it can lead to a downward spiral of negative thoughts, self-doubt, and low self-esteem. Chronic self-blame can even lead to anxiety, depression, and a lack of motivation. Remember, everyone makes mistakes - it’s a natural part of growth and learning. Learn to embrace the human part of you. The part of you that can makes mistakes and fumble with the daily grind of life. Be kind to yourself, practice self-compassion, and focus on moving forward with grace and resilience. Remember everyone on this planet at this very moment is doing their best- including you. Be your own best friend and loyal companion on this journey towards healing and wholeness. πŸ’–πŸ’«πŸŒ± #SelfCompassionJourney #HealingFromWithin #BreakingFreeFromSelfBlame #MentalHealthMatters #EmbracingImperfection
Panic attacks are intense episodes of fear or discomfort that can occur suddenly and without warning. Symptoms may include: 1. Rapid heartbeat or palpitations 2. Sweating, trembling, or shaking 3. Shortness of breath or feeling of choking 4. Nausea or abdominal discomfort 5. Dizziness or lightheadedness 6. Tingling or numbness in hands or feet 7. Fear of losing control or dying 8. Racing thoughts or feelings of detachment To treat panic attacks, consider the following: 1. Seek professional help: Consult a mental health professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. 2. Breathing techniques: Deep, slow breaths can help calm the body and mind. 3. Progressive muscle relaxation: Release physical tension through muscle relaxation. 4. Grounding techniques: Focus on the present moment to reduce feelings of detachment. 5. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Address underlying thoughts and behaviors contributing to panic attacks. 6. Medication: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage symptoms. 7. Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, healthy eating, and stress management can help reduce panic attack frequency and severity. 8. Support groups: Connect with others who experience panic attacks for support and understanding. Remember, panic attacks are treatable, and with the right tools and support, you can learn to manage and overcome them. Would you like more information on panic attacks or anxiety? Or is there something specific you’d like to discuss? Share your thoughts on the comments below ⬇️. #panic #panicattack #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #therapy
A message to the younger you... If you could go back in time, what would you tell yourself? As a therapist, I’ve heard countless women share their stories of resilience and hope. Here’s what they wish they could tell their younger selve
A message to the younger you... If you could go back in time, what would you tell yourself? As a therapist, I’ve heard countless women share their stories of resilience and hope. Here’s what they wish they could tell their younger selves: · You will smile again, even in the darkest moments. · You are not to blame for what happened to you. · You are not broken, and you can heal. · Your worth and beauty go far beyond what you’ve endured. If you’re struggling to find these words for yourself, know that you’re not alone. In my practice, I support women in uncovering their own strength and resilience. Let’s work together to reframe your past and empower your future. #therapy #healing #resilience #selflove #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness
You thought you were broken, but your inner child is just wounded. Through your healing journey, you’re discovering your inherent worth and resilience. You’re learning to re-parent yourself with compassion and understanding, rather than shame and self-blame. And you’re coming to realize that the trauma you endured was never a reflection of your worth - you didn’t deserve it, and you don’t deserve to carry it anymore. You are strong, capable, and deserving of love and care. Remember, you can heal and reclaim your inner child. #innerchildhealing #resilience #traumarecovery #selflove #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #therapy
Anyone else have Olympic fever πŸ”₯ πŸ₯‡? Just me? πŸ˜‚ Here are a couple of things to highlight that even though I’m a therapist; I’m human. 🀸🏻‍♀️ Follow for more laughs and therapist humor - we’re not as serious as we seem! πŸ˜‚ #OlympicObsessed #TherapistLife #HumanAfterAll #mentalhealth #therapy #mentalhealthawareness
Ah, the familiar phrases we’ve all heard before... πŸ™„ ‘Just be grateful for what you have’ or ‘You had it way better than me’... Sound familiar? 🀦‍♀️ Let’s break the cycle of minimizing our emotions! πŸ’” Having a better life than our relatives or friends doesn’t mean we don’t face unique struggles or deserve support. 🌟 Therapy is about learning about yourself, breaking unhealthy patterns, and growing into the best version of you! 🌱 It’s not about comparing hardships or competing in some sort of twisted ‘who’s got it worse’ game πŸ†... Therapy is about healing, growing, and living a better life! 🌈 Let’s normalize seeking help and prioritize our mental well-being! πŸ§ πŸ’– #TherapyIsForEveryone #MentalHealthMatters #BreakTheStigma #counseling #therapy #trauma”
Embracing the ups and downs! 🌈 Remember, it’s okay to NOT be okay. Allow yourself to feel all the emotions - the good, the bad, and the messy. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it, and give yourself permission to make mistak
Feeling like you’re at the mercy of your emotions? Are mood swings, irritability, and anxiety taking over your days? Do physical symptoms like headaches, muscle tension, and insomnia leave you exhausted? You might be experiencing a dysregulat
Let’s break the cycle! Generational trauma, also known as intergenerational trauma, refers to the emotional, psychological, and even physical pain that is passed down through generations. It’s the unresolved hurt, stress, and suffering th
Just relax’ - a phrase that may seem harmless, but can be incredibly damaging. When someone tells you to ‘just relax’ or ‘stop overreacting’, it can feel like they’re dismissing your emotions and invalidating your
Let’s break free from the cycle of self-blame! Is your self blame voice so loud you can’t hear anything else? When we’re too hard on ourselves, it can lead to a downward spiral of negative thoughts, self-doubt, and low self-esteem.
Panic attacks are intense episodes of fear or discomfort that can occur suddenly and without warning. Symptoms may include: 1. Rapid heartbeat or palpitations 2. Sweating, trembling, or shaking 3. Shortness of breath or feeling of choking 4. Nausea
A message to the younger you... If you could go back in time, what would you tell yourself? As a therapist, I’ve heard countless women share their stories of resilience and hope. Here’s what they wish they could tell their younger selve
You thought you were broken, but your inner child is just wounded. Through your healing journey, you’re discovering your inherent worth and resilience. You’re learning to re-parent yourself with compassion and understanding, rather than s
Anyone else have Olympic fever πŸ”₯ πŸ₯‡? Just me? πŸ˜‚ Here are a couple of things to highlight that even though I’m a therapist; I’m human. 🀸🏻‍♀️ Follow for more laughs and therapist humor - we’re not as serious as we seem! πŸ˜‚ #O
Ah, the familiar phrases we’ve all heard before... πŸ™„ ‘Just be grateful for what you have’ or ‘You had it way better than me’... Sound familiar? 🀦‍♀️ Let’s break the cycle of minimizing our emotions! πŸ’” Having