Courtney Santos

Welcome! Great to meet you!

My name is Courtney Santos, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is passionate about supporting children, teens, and young adults through life’s challenges. I specialize in working with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, ODD, peer and behavioral issues, relationship struggles, life transitions, stress, grief, self-harm, and suicidal ideations. I also work closely with families, helping to strengthen relationships and create healthier, more supportive dynamics within the home.

When working with children and preteens, I believe in building a strong partnership with parents. I see therapy as a team effort and value the unique insights and strengths that caregivers bring to the process. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to each client’s individual needs.

A bit about my approach to therapy

I believe that therapy starts with connection. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, supported, and truly heard—because that’s when real healing and growth can begin. I want every client to know this is a space where they can show up just as they are, without pressure or judgment.

I use a mix of evidence-based approaches depending on what works best for each person. These include Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Child-Centered Play Therapy, Strength-Based work, Structural Family Therapy, and Trauma-Informed care. Basically, I meet you where you are—emotionally and developmentally—and we go from there, building tools and insights that help you move forward.

Whether I’m working with a child, teen, or family, I focus on building resilience, boosting self-awareness, and creating meaningful change. I see therapy as a team effort, and I’m here to walk alongside you—supporting, guiding, and celebrating progress every step of the way.

What you can expect from our first session

Your first session with me is all about getting to know you and making sure you feel comfortable, supported, and safe. We’ll take our time—there’s no pressure to dive into everything all at once. I’ll ask some questions to better understand what’s bringing you to therapy, what challenges you’ve been facing, and what you hope to get out of our work together. But just as importantly, I’ll be listening closely—because your story, your pace, and your voice matter most.

If I’m meeting with a child or teen, the session may include creative or play-based activities that help them express themselves in a way that feels natural and non-threatening. For parents, we’ll talk together about what you’re seeing at home, what’s working, and where you’d like support. I believe in forming a strong team with caregivers, and our collaboration starts from the very first session.

By the end of our first time together, my hope is that you’ll walk away feeling a little lighter—like you’ve taken a brave first step toward something positive. You can expect to feel heard, supported, and maybe even a little more hopeful about what’s ahead. Whether it’s your first time in therapy or you’re returning to it, I want you to leave knowing you’re not alone in this—and that we’ll figure it out together, one step at a time.