Ellie Kayyem (she/her)

MSW
Accepting Clients

I help children and teens feel safe, connected, and understood through EMDR, play, and emotional expression.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker - Candidate in Arvada, CO
Supervised by Amy Harmon

About My Clients

I work with children and teens navigating big emotions, anxiety, trauma, and stressful life changes. Many of the young people I support are highly sensitive or neurodivergent and often feel misunderstood or unsafe in their bodies or relationships. In therapy, we focus on building regulation, self-trust, and connection at a pace that feels right for them. I also collaborate with caregivers to help them attune to and support their child at home.

My Background and Approach

As a therapist for children and adolescents, I draw from EMDR, Synergetic Play Therapy, and other developmentally attuned approaches to support regulation, healing, and resilience. I believe that connection is the foundation for change, and I create a space where young people can just show up as they are. For younger children, that means engaging in play (their natural language). For teens, sessions may involve creative expression, somatic tools, and reflective conversation. I approach each client with curiosity, attuning to their nervous system states, attachment patterns, and lived experiences to tailor the work to their needs. I also collaborate with caregivers outside of sessions to promote growth and integration beyond the therapy room.

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

I believe that every young person deserves to feel seen, safe, and empowered in therapy. I work from a trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming lens that honors each client's cultural identity, family story, sensory sensitivities, strengths, and interests. I trust the healing power of play, movement, and attuned relationships. I am a strong advocate for social and environmental justice and believe that connection to nature is central to healing. Outside of therapy, I enjoy being outside, reading, and playing with my three ferrets.

Insurance Plans Accepted
  • Aetna
  • Medicaid
  • Optum
  • United Behavioral Health (UBH)
  • United Healthcare
  • Rocky Mountain
  • Colorado Access
  • Health First Colorado

At A Glance

  • Experience: 3 years of practice
  • Languages: English
  • Rate: $175/session

Info

Email Ellie
6275 Joyce Dr
Suite 200
Arvada, CO 80403

Reach out to Ellie