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Kids Drawing Together

Social Skills Groups for Kids

Ridgefield, New Jersey

Where Kids Practice the Stuff School Doesn't Teach

Every kid wants to belong. For some, that means learning how to jump into a conversation without freezing up or noticing when a friend's getting annoyed before it turns into something bigger. You've probably already noticed it... limited friends or the birthday party they weren't invited to. It can be hard to watch this from the outside, especially when you're not sure what would actually help.

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Free to Be Mindful's Social Skills Groups offer a welcoming and interactive approach that uses role-playing and hands-on activities to help children develop effective communication skills and build confidence.

Vanessa De Jesus Guzman NJ's Favorite Kids' Docs.png

I'm Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, but you can call me Vanessa!

I'm a certified elementary teacher and middle school counselor turned licensed therapist with over 20 years experience serving children and families. Spending almost two decades in schools, I know the challenges kids face daily. I merge that background with my clinical training to build groups that feel like practice for real life. 

How the Groups Work

Learn It

Your child watches the skill come to life in a way that speaks to them - no worksheets or boring lectures.

Try It

They practice it in real time, in a supportive environment with  a safety net in place. This builds confidence to try it in school!

Grow It

Parents receive notes after every session to reinforce concepts at home. 

Group Walking Together

Group Facts

  • Two Groups

    • Grades 3 - 5 | Mondays 6:00 - 7:00PM

    • Grades 6 - 8 | Tuesdays 7:00 - 8:00PM

  • 8 Week Commitment beginning week of October 12th

  • Held in person at 700 Grand Avenue, Suite 1E, Ridgefield, NJ

  • Space limited to 6 participants per group

  • $125 for Parent Intake. $80/session.

  • Potential reimbursement available based on your insurance provider details

  • Intake appointments offered in English and Spanish. Groups run in English.

  • Registration closes September 27th.

Have a child in kindergarten, first or second grade? Complete the form below.

You'll be contacted for the next round of groups in the winter!

Frequently Asked Questions

CONTACT:

         Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC

         201.430.5811

         hello@freetobemindful.com

         700 Grand Avenue, Suite 1E

         Ridgefield, New Jersey 07657

         Hours available by appointment

A WEEKLY NOTE WORTH OPENING. Once a week, I send a personal note straight to your inbox... the kind of thing I don't share anywhere else.

 

Written for the woman who's holding it all together and could use a moment where she doesn't have to. It's like a note from a friend... who happens to be a therapist.

Thanks for subscribing! Check your inbox (and promotional folder just in case). Emails come from "Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC" at hello@freetobemindful.com

FIND ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA

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COPYRIGHT © 2026  FREE TO BE MINDFUL

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