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Therapy for Kids, Tweeens & Teens

Ages 8 Through College  |  Ridgefield, New Jersey  -  Bergen County  |  In-Person & Virtual

You're doing everything you can think of, and yet you're still you're met with the meltdowns, the shutting down, and the "I don't want to talk about it."  You constantly wonder what it is you're missing. Sometimes it's your kid who's in tears... sometimes it's you. 

Whether your child is 9 and having daily meltdowns or 16 and completely shutting you out, it's exhausting to watch someone you love struggle and not know how to reach them. 

You're not failing. Your child isn't broken. They just haven't found the right support yet. 

  • Having big meltdowns or emotional outbursts

  • Struggling with anxiety, worry or sleepless nights

  • Having trouble focusing or staying on track at school

  • Fighting constantly with siblings or family

  • Dealing with bullying or peer relationships struggles

  • Putting too much pressure on themselves

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There's no such thing as a bad kid. 
There are just kids who haven't been heard yet. 

What Will Counseling Look Like for My Child?

No two kids are the same, and therapy isn't cookie cutter. Here's what you can expect: 

Step 1: We Start With You

The first session is an hour and 45 minutes and held with parents only - no child present. I want to understand your family, what you've already tried, what's happening at school, and what success looks like for you. You are my partner in this, not just a bystander. 

Step 2: Your Child Gets Their Own Space

Sessions are typically weekly and designed around your child's age, personality and what they respond to. For younger kids, I use play therapy, art, and games. For tweens and teens, games may still be involved and we use sand tray. Sessions are more conversational, skills-based, and built around what they actually care about. The goal is always the same: help them understand themselves and give them tools that work in real life. 

Step 3: You Stay in the Loop

Parent check-ins are built into the process... not an after thought. I'll keep you updated on your child's progress, share strategies you can use at home, and adjust the plan as things change. When appropriate, you may be invited to join a session with your child. 

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Teenagers in Park

Areas of  Specialty

  • Academic Pressure 

  • ADHD

  • Anxiety

  • Behavioral Issues

  • College Adjustment

  • Coping Skills

  • Identity Exploration

  • Life Transitions

  • Mindfulness
  • Mistreatment & Bullying

  • Parenting

  • Peer Relationships

  • Racial Identity

  • School Issues

  • Self-Esteem

  • Sibling Conflict

  • Social Media & Technology Stress

  • Stress & Resilience

Not sure if this is the right fit? The free call is exactly for that. No pressure or obligation - just a conversation.

​Still have questions? I've answered the most common ones on the Frequently Asked Questions page, including how insurance works and what to expect. 

Want your child to met me before the first session? Have them check out the Kids Only Page - there's a video just for them. 

Free to Be Mindful Virtual Class Website

More Services Offered

Free to Be Mindful Therapy for Kids

Kids Only Page

Free to Be Mindful Therapy Groups

Group Counseling

Free to Be Mindful Therapy for Moms

Therapy for Moms

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

FIND ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

  • Counselor De Jesus on IG
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  • Counselor De Jesus on YouTube
  • Counselor De Jesus on LinkedIn
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