Mary Zimmerman, LSW, MSW
*currently taking new clients, and available during weekday nights. Hi there and welcome to Mind Trek Counseling! My name is Mary and I am dedicated child/teen/young adult therapist!
I am a two-time graduate of The Ohio State University with a Bachelors degree in Human Development and Family Science and a Masters degree in Social Work with a focus on Children and Youth. I have experience with various modalities and typically draw from several during my therapy sessions, including but not limited to: CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, and Trauma Informed Care. In everything I do, I always prioritize a trauma informed care approach.
How do I approach therapy?
I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults from in-home therapy, to school systems, day treatment programs, and residential treatment settings. My passion lies in providing a safe and nurturing space where children can share their stories, no matter how big or small.
I am here to listen, to understand, and to support your child through their unique challenges and experiences. Every child's journey is different, and I am committed to walking alongside them with patience and empathy, utilizing a compassionate approach tailored to each child's needs, ensuring they feel valued and understood every step of the way.
My Specialties:
Working with Children: Working with children requires a deep understanding of developmental stages, cognitive abilities, and emotional needs at different ages. It involves recognizing that children may express themselves differently compared to adults and often lack the vocabulary to articulate their emotions fully. My approach involves creating a safe and supportive environment where children feel comfortable expressing themselves. This might include using play therapy, art therapy, or other creative techniques to facilitate communication and exploration of feelings. I emphasize building trust and rapport with both the child and their caregivers, as collaboration with parents/guardians is often crucial in child therapy.
Anxiety Treatment: I use a combination of cognitive-behavioral techniques (CBT) to challenge and reframe negative thought patterns, relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation to manage physiological symptoms, and mindfulness practices to increase present-moment awareness and reduce rumination. I tailor my interventions to each client's unique needs and preferences, ensuring a holistic approach that addresses both the symptoms and underlying causes of anxiety.
PTSD Trauma Treatment: I emphasize creating a safe therapeutic space where clients feel validated and empowered to process their traumatic experiences at their own pace. Collaborating with clients to develop coping strategies and building resilience are central to my approach, alongside addressing any comorbid conditions such as depression or substance use that may accompany PTSD.