Children’s Therapy at The Therapy Institute

Born, raised, and educated in New Jersey, USA, Malia was a student-athlete in high school and college, competing as a long-distance runner for twelve years. She graduated from Monmouth University's Undergraduate & Graduate Social Work Programs. Upon graduating, Malia worked many years in the education setting as a school social worker. The social and emotional challenges students face can often interfere with academic performance. Malia helped students build confidence, strengthen executive functioning skills and make strides toward positive autonomous decision making. In her 1:1 work with children at The Therapy Institute, Malia collaborates with parents, caregivers and other supportive adults to help re-frame challenging behaviors and offer effective solutions to previously persistent problems. Malia understands that adults feel immense pressure to 'get it right' when it comes to helping kids navigate life and offers tools that empower and educate. Children and adults alike are welcomed to therapy with Malia from a place of curiosity, not judgment or correction. Together, peace is found! Malia is trained and certified in Synergetic Play Therapy which offers tremendous nervous system support to kids and adults, as we consistently practice regulation strategies to help you feel at home in your body, and well-attuned to what it may need in a moment of stress. Malia's favorite regulation activities include exhaling, reading fiction, listening to history podcasts, traveling and being outside in the spring/summer time. Malia specializes in supporting children and families who are experiencing acute distress or challenges at school or home. Malia will also inform you if another therapy is needed to support your child's wellbeing like speech, occupational therapy or a medical evaluation.

Kellen has been receiving direct supervision from Malia as he works towards being a registered play therapist. Kellen is working on a daily basis to develop and sharpen his therapeutic skills using the non-directive, child-centered play therapy approach. During his time in supervision, Kellen has learned the importance of supporting children and families as they encounter big feelings and big emotions. Kellen is motivated to continue the work that children and families have started during their partnership with Malia. In doing so, Kellen is a part of the therapy team focused on successfully facilitating the transition from addressing acute symptoms to working to reduce the intensity of chronic symptoms. As with previous collaborative approaches in the child therapy process, Kellen will partner with parents and caregivers to ensure that all parties involved are informed of their child's progress.

Kelsey graduated from Monmouth University’s Undergraduate and Graduate Social Work Programs with a concentration in Clinical Practice with Children and Families. Kelsey has had experience working with children and adolescents in both the school setting and in private practice. She strives to provide a safe and encouraging environment that promotes understanding, acceptance, and personal growth. Kelsey aims to incorporate her knowledge of childhood and adolescent milestones into her practice to address issues such as anxiety, depression and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). In addition to her role as an individual therapist, Kelsey completed Executive Functioning Coach certification, and is one of the creators of the Therapy Institute’s My Brain, Explained executive functioning program. Kelsey utilizes aspects of several therapeutic frameworks in her work with children including a Strengths Based Approach and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Kelsey works to collaborate with a child’s parents and caregivers to identify treatment goals and provide education, as well as to ensure cohesion and consistency throughout a child’s therapeutic journey.

Robin has always had a passion for working with children and families. Upon graduating from Monmouth University with a Master of Social Work, she began using play therapy practices to best support her clients. Robin offers a personalized holistic approach to meet each of her client's individual needs. Her goal is to provide your child and family with the tools and support you need to build a more regulated lifestyle. Robin is certified to treat children and adolescent anxiety disorders. She utilizes a multitude of approaches including a strength based approach, mindfulness techniques, and family centered. Robin is dedicated to working with your child, ensuring they learn the necessary skills to process life’s challenges. Robin's favorite activities include yoga, walking my dog, breath work, and listening to Taylor Swift.