About your Peoria Play Therapist

Hi! I’m Natalie (she/her). I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois (License number 180.012269).

I have been practicing counseling with children and adults since 2015. Throughout that time, I have learned that clients meet their needs best when I meet them where they are. My approach is primarily person centered. I often practice from a child-centered play therapy approach when working with children. This means that I follow the lead of you or your child to best help them express themselves and meet their own needs. My approach is also neurodiversity-affirming. As an autistic therapist, I understand the needs of neurodivergent people. I do my best to help you learn the way your unique brain works. Just like for myself, I find that we all do better when we work with our brains rather than against them. I will help you find ways to cope, accommodate your needs, and understand your sensory profile. I also often use sand tray and attachment-based activities to help your child express themselves and play out their difficulties in the same way adults will talk out their struggles. I have additional training in working with trauma, foster care and adoption, and child victims of sexual abuse. For parents, I include you in every step of the way while working with your young child to best support the family as a whole. I welcome and support clients of all sexual orientations, including LGBTQIA+.

In my free time, I enjoy being with my husband and son. I enjoy yoga and going on walks. I am often researching psychology and counseling topics. I am autistic with a neurodivergent family. I have lived in Peoria for the majority of my life and am proud to call this my home.