“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 work with children and teens because I believe every young person deserves a safe, supportive environment where they can build confidence and resilience. I provide a highly personalized therapeutic experience, where each child’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 has extensive experience working with young people from diverse cultural backgrounds, including refugees and immigrants. As a bilingual therapist, she enjoys working with Spanish-speaking clients addressing cultural stigmas surrounding mental health. When kids arrive at the session, they can expect to be welcomed into a cozy, playful, safe space where they can be fully themselves. Sessions are semi-structured and frequently include parent check-ins and coaching. Leah incorporates a game or activity that focuses on teaching and practicing coping skills for young children, as well as time for reflecting on progress toward goals and targeted skill building activities for teens.
Leah employs cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, and play, art, and strengths-based approaches in her therapy as well as parenting psychoeducation and support. She is also committed to collaborating 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 can integrate a Christian faith perspective into therapy upon request and as desired.
Leah Ewald is a licensed clinical social worker at the Pine Rest Forest Hills Clinic. 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).
