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

Kelly is a licensed associate counselor who graduated with her masters in counseling from Gwynedd Mercy University. Throughout her educational journey, Kelly loved learning about the mind-body connection and how the two intertwine and function properly. Chess is a prime example of incorporating the mind-body connection because it is beneficial for mental stimulation and also an effective form of relaxation for the body.

Kelly specializes in working with children age 6+, teenagers and young adults and enjoys using art therapy techniques with her clients. Kelly has previous experience working with elementary and middle-school aged students. During that time, she often advocated for equal opportunities to learn for all students, helped teachers understand alternative views of behaviors and communicated with parents regarding home-related issues. What makes Kelly different from other therapists is her genuine empathy, sense of humor and ability to meet children at their level. She looks forward to connecting with you and your children in our summer SEL club!