Lindsay Stenzel (She/her)

I work with teen girls experiencing anxiety, perfectionism, emotional overwhelm, self-esteem concerns, identity development, neurodivergence, and the many pressures of adolescence. Sessions are often conversational while incorporating expressive approaches when helpful. I create a space where teens can feel understood, explore who they are, and develop greater confidence and resilience.

I work with children who are navigating anxiety, emotional regulation challenges, big feelings, perfectionism, neurodivergence, transitions, and difficulties at home or school. As a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist, I use play, creativity, art, sandtray, and relationship-based approaches to help children communicate and process experiences in ways that feel natural to them.

I specialize in working with children and teens experiencing anxiety, worry, perfectionism, emotional overwhelm, and difficulty managing big feelings. Anxiety can look different in every child—from avoidance and reassurance-seeking to irritability, shutdowns, physical symptoms, or striving to be “perfect.” I help kids understand what’s happening in their nervous system, expand their window of tolerance, and build confidence navigating challenges while partnering with parents.

I use expressive art interventions to give children and teens ways to communicate and process experiences that may be difficult to put into words. Art can help clients explore emotions, build self-awareness, and make meaning of their experiences in a creative, developmentally appropriate way. I tailor these interventions to each client rather than using art activities as a one-size-fits-all approach.

As a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist, I use play as a child’s natural language and a powerful way to build connection, process experiences, and develop emotional regulation. My approach is primarily child-centered and non-directive, allowing children to lead while I attune to what they communicate through play, behavior, and their nervous system. I thoughtfully incorporate directive interventions when they fit the child’s needs.

I use sand tray therapy as an expressive, often nonverbal way for children and teens to explore emotions, relationships, experiences, and internal worlds. Creating scenes in the sand can give clients a sense of control and distance when talking directly feels difficult. I use sand tray flexibly and collaboratively, allowing clients to make meaning of their feelings and experiences. Sand tray often allows kids and teens to understand emotions and challenges in a new way, leading to change.