Tiffany Somerville

I believe healing happens when people feel genuinely understood and accepted. Whether I'm working with a child processing trauma, a teenager navigating identity issues, or an adult struggling with anxiety, my goal is to create a space where you and/or your child can feel safe, supported, and empowered to make meaningful change. I bring over 10 years of experience in mental health, working with children, teens, and adults. I hold a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision, and I am a licensed professional counselor in Illinois and Oregon. Most of my career has been in community mental health where I've supported people from diverse backgrounds navigating a wide range of life stressors and mental health concerns.

My specialty is working with children and adolescents who have experienced trauma. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), one of the most well-researched treatments for children and adolescents struggling with post-traumatic stress. I also have advanced training in child-centered and Adlerian play therapy which can help younger children navigate trauma, anxiety, low self-esteem, impulse control challenges, and other emotional and behavioral concerns. While children and teens are my specialty, I also have experience working with young and middle-aged adults experiencing post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, identity concerns, and other life challenges.

My approach to therapy is warm, creative, and collaborative. I believe you are the expert on yourself, your child, and your family, and I want to understand your story so we can work together toward meaningful change. Because every person is different, I tailor therapy to fit your unique needs rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach. My training includes both structured treatments like TF-CBT and more flexible, relationship-centered approaches like child-centered play therapy, allowing me to adapt as your needs evolve. I believe creativity and play can be powerful tools for healing and growth, and I incorporate them into therapy as much (or as little) as you like. Depending on you or your child's goals, therapy might include conversation, art, play, games, mindfulness, or other creative activities that help our work feel more engaging and meaningful. Above all, I aim to combine evidence-based care with empathy, connection, and creativity.

Our first session is an opportunity to start getting to know each other and begin building a strong therapeutic relationship. We'll spend time exploring your story, and you're welcome to share only what feels comfortable for you. I also encourage you to ask questions about me, my approach, or anything else you're wondering about therapy. If you or your child have been in therapy before, I'd love to hear what has and hasn't been helpful so we can tailor your experience to be the most effective for you. Together, we'll identify goals that will guide our work and create a plan that feels most supportive for you and/or your child. If we meet in person, you're welcome to make yourself comfortable in whatever way feels right for you. Feel free to explore my collection of fidgets, color or doodle, settle into a comfortable position, or use whatever helps you feel more at ease as you begin to make the therapy space your own.