From My Heart to Yours: My Thoughts on Healing, Growth, and Finding Peace

Helping Our Kids Deal With Fear and Anxiety After Another School Shooting 8/27/2025

Today, like many of you, I felt my chest tighten as I read the news. Another school shooting. Another community grieving. As a counselor, my thoughts turned to the kids I work with who already carry so much fear. As a mom, I wanted to gather my child close. And as a former teacher, I thought of the educators — just doing their jobs — now traumatized by something so terrible.

When things like this happen, our kids feel it. Even if they don’t say it out loud.

Fear doesn’t always show up in words. It shows up in bedtime struggles, irritability, being extra quiet, feeling ill, or just staying a little closer than usual.
They look to us — not for perfect answers, but for safety.

How You Can Support Your Child Right Now:

• Talk gently and honestly. Let them ask questions. Keep it simple and calm.

• Stick to familiar routines. Predictability helps kids feel secure.

• Limit the media. Too much exposure can heighten anxiety — for them and for you.

• Watch for subtle signs. Changes in behavior may be their way of saying “I’m not okay.”

• Get support if needed. Therapy can be a safe space for them (and for you) to process hard feelings.

To the Parents and Teachers Hurting Too:

You’re not supposed to have it all together right now.
It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, scared, or exhausted.
You’re not alone — and you don’t have to carry this by yourself.

Reach out if you need someone to talk to. Truly~Melanie

What to Expect in Your First Therapy Session 8/31/2025

Taking that first step toward therapy can feel both hopeful and a little scary—and that’s completely normal. I want you to know that your experience matters, and my goal is to make this first session feel welcoming, safe, and all about you.

This Session Is About You-The first session is really just a chance for me to learn more about you. There’s no pressure to have everything figured out. I’m here to listen—really listen—to your story, your feelings, and what’s been weighing on your heart.

What We’ll Talk About

• Your Story: I want to understand where you’re coming from—your background, your struggles, and the things that matter most to you.

• Your Goals: What brought you here? Whether you want to manage anxiety, work through grief, or simply feel more like yourself, we’ll explore what you hope to gain from therapy.

• Your Questions: This is your space to ask anything about how therapy works, confidentiality, or what you can expect moving forward.

How You Might Feel-It’s okay to feel nervous or unsure. You’re not alone in feeling that way. My job is to create a warm, judgment-free space where you can be honest and open at your own pace. You set the pace—I’m here to support you.

The Basics-We’ll talk about how sessions usually last about 50 minutes and how often we might meet. I’ll explain confidentiality clearly and when I might need to involve others (like parents or caregivers if you’re a minor, or if safety concerns arise).

Your Journey, Your Healing-Therapy isn’t about rushing or fixing everything overnight. It’s a gentle, ongoing journey of growth, understanding, and healing—and it starts with this first step. You don’t need to have all the answers right now. Just showing up is a powerful start.

If you’re ready, I’m here to walk alongside you. Whether you’re a teen, young adult, or parent, together we’ll create a safe space for you to heal, grow, and bloom from within. Truly~Melanie