

Anna Van Dyke
LSW
Child & Family Therapist
I specialize in working with children and adolescents who are navigating anxiety, trauma, behavioral challenges, school difficulties, and family stress. Over the course of my clinical training and professional internships, I have focused primarily on supporting youth through play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and trauma-informed approaches. I work closely with both children and their caregivers, believing that the most meaningful progress happens when families are supported as a team. My approach is collaborative, developmentally informed, and tailored to each child’s unique needs.
I primarily use Play Therapy to help younger children express emotions and experiences in a natural, comfortable way. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help children and teens build coping skills and healthier thought patterns. I utilize Trauma-Informed Care to create a safe, supportive environment for healing. I incorporate Psychoeducation and Skill Building to help clients and families better understand emotions, behavior, and communication. I adapt my methods based on each client’s age, personality, and goals, always aiming to make therapy engaging, practical, and empowering.
I was drawn to therapy because I’ve always cared deeply about helping young people feel understood and supported. Through my background in psychology, education, and creative engagement, I saw how powerful it can be when children and teens have a safe, caring adult who truly listens to them. I became especially interested in how early experiences, relationships, and emotions shape development—and how therapy can help young people build confidence, resilience, and healthy coping skills.
What has been your path (personal/professional): My path to becoming a therapist has combined my passions for mental health, creativity, and working with youth. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and English, where I developed a strong foundation in human behavior and communication. I then completed my Master of Social Work with a clinical focus, gaining hands-on experience in both school-based and outpatient therapy settings. Throughout my training, I have worked directly with children, adolescents, and families—providing individual therapy, completing assessments, and collaborating with caregivers and schools. My professional experiences in education, disability services, and community outreach have shaped my holistic, compassionate approach to supporting young people and their families.
Top Specialties
Child
Anxiety
Depression
Expertise
ADHD
Behavioral Issues
Emotional Disturbance
Family Conflict
Parenting
School Issues
Self Esteem
Self-Harming
Suicidal Ideation
Trauma and PTSD
If someone was to ask you what they should know before going - what would you tell them?
I would tell them that therapy doesn’t require having all the answers. It’s okay to feel nervous, unsure, or not know exactly what to say. Therapy is a space where you can go at your own pace, be honest, and explore what feels hard with someone on your team. Progress isn’t about being “perfect” – it’s about small steps, feeling heard, and learning new ways to cope and grow.
Fun Fact
Before becoming a therapist, I worked as a creative writer on a children’s educational gaming app—so I love finding imaginative and playful ways to connect with kids!
If you were an emoji (or series of emoji's), which one(s)?
🧩💛📚





