Dr. Alexza Gutierrez

Does your child or adolescent’s behavior leave you wondering, “What is going on?”Are they having meltdowns, withdrawing, struggling at school, worrying, or feeling sad? Children and adolescents often communicate their feelings through behavior long before they have the words to explain what they are experiencing.I work with children, adolescents, and families navigating challenges such as adoption, divorce, co-parenting, blended-family transitions, grief and loss, school-related worries, family conflict, and the growing push for independence. I help children and caregivers better understand what may be underneath the behavior while strengthening connection, communication, and emotional regulation. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor (RPT-S). I received my Doctorate in Clinical Social Work (DSW) and Master’s in Social Work (MSW) from New York University, and my Bachelor’s of Science in Social Work (BSW) from Cornell University. With more than two decades of clinical experience across inpatient, outpatient, and residential settings.

My approach is relational and grounded in the belief that meaningful change happens through connection. I draw from multiple therapeutic frameworks and have extensive training in child and family therapy models, allowing me to tailor individual or family-based interventions to each child’s and family’s unique needs.

Our first session focuses on getting to know your family, understanding what brings you to therapy, and identifying your goals. I typically begin by meeting with caregivers to learn about your child’s history, strengths, relationships, and current concerns. This conversation also gives you an opportunity to ask questions and share what you hope will change as therapy progresses. Caregivers are essential partners in therapy, and I work collaboratively with families to strengthen connection, understanding, and confidence throughout the process. I then begin building a trusting relationship with your child through creative, play-based activities that help me understand how they experience their world.