Child and Teen Therapy

In a world where young people face increasing pressures and emotional challenges, the need for compassionate, age-appropriate therapy has never been greater. At Montgomery Counseling Group, Michelle Daley, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and Navy veteran, brings a unique and highly effective approach to working with children and adolescents—one that is both trauma-informed and play-based.

Her work is rooted in the belief that when children are given the tools to express themselves safely and creatively, deep healing and emotional resilience can unfold.

Understanding Trauma in Children and Adolescents

Trauma in young people doesn’t always come from one major event—it can result from ongoing stress, medical experiences, loss, bullying, or family disruptions. Left unaddressed, trauma can affect brain development, emotional regulation, and the ability to form secure relationships.

Michelle approaches therapy through a trauma-informed lens, which means she prioritizes safety, trust, empowerment, and choice. Her goal is to help children and teens regain a sense of control while understanding that their behaviors are adaptive responses to experiences they may not have the words to explain.

“Trauma-informed care starts with understanding, not judgment,” Michelle says. “It’s about helping children feel seen, heard, and safe enough to begin their healing.”

Why Play Therapy Works

For young clients, traditional talk therapy isn’t always accessible. Children often lack the vocabulary or cognitive maturity to articulate their thoughts and feelings. That’s where play therapy comes in.

Play therapy uses tools like:

- Art

- Sand trays

- Dolls and figurines

- Role-playing

- Games and storytelling

These mediums give children a natural language through which to communicate. Michelle, who is certified in play therapy, skillfully observes and interprets these interactions to help children process emotions, solve problems, and build coping skills.

“Play is how children make sense of the world,” she explains. “It allows them to externalize inner struggles and work through them at their own pace.”

Specialties and Client Focus

Michelle specializes in working with:

- Children and teens experiencing ADHD, autism, or emotional regulation challenges

- Youth coping with grief, trauma, or family transitions

- Parent-child relationship issues

- Children from military families, offering unique insight from her own experience in the Navy

She also provides guidance to parents to support healthy attachment, communication, and boundary-setting at home.

Building Connection and Safety

At the core of Michelle’s work is the creation of a safe and affirming therapeutic environment. Her sessions are intentionally structured to be welcoming and predictable, reducing anxiety and helping clients build trust. Whether through sensory play, storytelling, or practicing social skills, every interaction is an opportunity for healing and growth.

Final Thoughts

Childhood and adolescence are formative years that shape how individuals navigate the world. When children receive support early—especially from a skilled therapist like Michelle Daley—they are better equipped to manage emotions, form meaningful relationships, and develop resilience that lasts a lifetime.

At Montgomery Counseling Group, Michelle’s trauma-informed, play-based approach offers children and teens a space where they can truly be themselves, process their experiences, and move toward a healthier future.

Is your child struggling emotionally or behaviorally?

Learn more about Michelle Daley and schedule a consultation at montgomerycg.net.