“Children today face a unique set of challenges, including pressures from social media, academic stress, and difficulties in navigating complex emotional and social landscapes. I am deeply motivated to be a clinical mental health therapist for children and teens because I believe every young person deserves a safe, supportive environment where they can build confidence and resilience. My goal is to provide a highly personalized therapeutic experience, where a client’s unique voice and feelings are validated, and where challenges can transform into superpowers. I strive to help children and teens reconnect with the joys of childhood, empowering them to grow stronger and more capable in managing life’s obstacles.”
Leah Ewald is a licensed clinical social worker at the Pine Rest Forest Hills Clinic, where she works with patients ages 5-18. She earned her Master’s degree from Grand Valley State University. She holds certificates in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Skills, and The Kazdin Method of Parent Management Training (PMT).
Leah’s clinical interests include anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, ADHD, autism, adoption and foster care issues, and childhood behavioral concerns. She employs cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, and play, art, and strengths-based approaches in her therapy as well as parenting psychoeducation and support.
Leah has extensive experience working with young people from diverse cultural backgrounds in the foster care system, including refugees and immigrants. As a bilingual therapist, she particularly enjoys working with Spanish-speaking clients and addressing cultural stigmas surrounding mental health.
Leah is also committed to collaboration with parents, schools, and other medical providers to ensure integrative, quality, and culturally sensitive care for all children. Leah prides herself in tailoring her methods to meet each child’s unique needs. Additionally, she is able to integrate a Christian faith perspective into therapy upon request and as desired.
