Child Therapists in Acton, MA

Photo of James D Verdery, MA, LMHC, Counselor
James D Verdery
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
Therapy begins with understanding. I take the time to listen deeply to your concerns, experiences, and aspirations. Whether you are a child struggling with school anxiety, a teen navigating social pressures, an adult managing the complexities of life, or a parent desiring to best support your child, your story is at the heart of our work together. Collaboration is key; we will work as a team to explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, uncovering patterns that may be contributing to your current difficulties. We will also work to build healthy coping skills so that you feel more in control of your life.
Therapy begins with understanding. I take the time to listen deeply to your concerns, experiences, and aspirations. Whether you are a child struggling with school anxiety, a teen navigating social pressures, an adult managing the complexities of life, or a parent desiring to best support your child, your story is at the heart of our work together. Collaboration is key; we will work as a team to explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, uncovering patterns that may be contributing to your current difficulties. We will also work to build healthy coping skills so that you feel more in control of your life.
(978) 449-4678 View (978) 449-4678
Photo of Eric Schlesinger, PsyD, Psychologist
Eric Schlesinger
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
Online booking currently available on my website (listed under my profile picture). While I am comfortable working with several presentations, my ideal client is looking for support in managing anxiety or OCD symptoms which have been creating a negative impact on their day-to-day living. I am comfortable working with all age groups including children and adolescents. I am a BTTI graduate through the International OCD Foundation.
Online booking currently available on my website (listed under my profile picture). While I am comfortable working with several presentations, my ideal client is looking for support in managing anxiety or OCD symptoms which have been creating a negative impact on their day-to-day living. I am comfortable working with all age groups including children and adolescents. I am a BTTI graduate through the International OCD Foundation.
(508) 392-5411 View (508) 392-5411
Photo of Megan Elizabeth Johnson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Elizabeth Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to providing maternal mental health services, I provide child play therapy for young and school age children.
My passion and dedication to the work is evident upon our first meeting. My positive energy stems from the belief that change is possible and I come to restore hope. I provide an open, compassionate and non judgmental space for my clients to explore their past and present lives. Collaboratively, we work together, at your pace, to obtain the goals that you identify. I believe that parenting is a journey that we undertake without a map and, at times, along the way, we all get lost. And, together, we can create a new path that feels good to you.
In addition to providing maternal mental health services, I provide child play therapy for young and school age children.
My passion and dedication to the work is evident upon our first meeting. My positive energy stems from the belief that change is possible and I come to restore hope. I provide an open, compassionate and non judgmental space for my clients to explore their past and present lives. Collaboratively, we work together, at your pace, to obtain the goals that you identify. I believe that parenting is a journey that we undertake without a map and, at times, along the way, we all get lost. And, together, we can create a new path that feels good to you.
(617) 340-7138 View (617) 340-7138
Photo of Deborah Stames-Merz, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Stames-Merz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
I am an MSW, LICSW who has worked in the field for 25+ years with children, teenagers, young adults, parents and families with emotional/behavioral/mental health concerns.
Individual Therapy Are you struggling with parenting or relationship issues? ​ Do you wish you could improve your communication skills with others? ​ Do you feel anxious, depressed or experiencing panic attacks? ​ Do you want to make changes in your life so you can live a more genuine life? ​ -PLAY THERAPY ​ Does your 2-11 year old have a hard time expressing their feelings which results in difficult behaviors? ​ -ELDER CARE COUNSELING AND CASE MANAGEMENT ​ Are you a Caretaker and need help managing your commitments to your immediate family as well as your elder parents? ​ Do you need help navigating the Medicaid/Medicare process?
I am an MSW, LICSW who has worked in the field for 25+ years with children, teenagers, young adults, parents and families with emotional/behavioral/mental health concerns.
Individual Therapy Are you struggling with parenting or relationship issues? ​ Do you wish you could improve your communication skills with others? ​ Do you feel anxious, depressed or experiencing panic attacks? ​ Do you want to make changes in your life so you can live a more genuine life? ​ -PLAY THERAPY ​ Does your 2-11 year old have a hard time expressing their feelings which results in difficult behaviors? ​ -ELDER CARE COUNSELING AND CASE MANAGEMENT ​ Are you a Caretaker and need help managing your commitments to your immediate family as well as your elder parents? ​ Do you need help navigating the Medicaid/Medicare process?
(617) 221-3855 View (617) 221-3855
Photo of Zachary Gresser, MA, MT-BC, LMHC, Counselor
Zachary Gresser
Counselor, MA, MT-BC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720  (Online Only)
My practice caters to adults, children and teenagers seeking help for any combination of mental health challenges, including, Attention Deficit Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders including social anxiety and panic disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Problems with Executive Function, Gaming Use Disorder. My treatment emphasizes problem solving, acquisition of coping skills, and identifying strategies to strengthen well-being.
My practice caters to adults, children and teenagers seeking help for any combination of mental health challenges, including, Attention Deficit Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders including social anxiety and panic disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Problems with Executive Function, Gaming Use Disorder. My treatment emphasizes problem solving, acquisition of coping skills, and identifying strategies to strengthen well-being.
(978) 717-0127 View (978) 717-0127
Photo of Adrian Rivera, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrian Rivera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
I have specialized in Child, Adolescent, and Family psychotherapy since 2004 with an emphasis on Psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Family Therapy.
Some people struggle for weeks, months, or even years before considering psychotherapy. And it makes sense — it's hard to confide in a stranger and can take a while to find the right fit. We want authenticity and experience in a therapist but also someone relatable and easy to talk with. When couples counseling, family therapy, or child/adolescent support is needed, the search may seem even more daunting. We need a clinician with the interpersonal skills, temperament, and adaptability to forge a meaningful connection with our partners, children, and the networks who support them.
I have specialized in Child, Adolescent, and Family psychotherapy since 2004 with an emphasis on Psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Family Therapy.
Some people struggle for weeks, months, or even years before considering psychotherapy. And it makes sense — it's hard to confide in a stranger and can take a while to find the right fit. We want authenticity and experience in a therapist but also someone relatable and easy to talk with. When couples counseling, family therapy, or child/adolescent support is needed, the search may seem even more daunting. We need a clinician with the interpersonal skills, temperament, and adaptability to forge a meaningful connection with our partners, children, and the networks who support them.
(978) 938-9017 View (978) 938-9017
Photo of Steven Chapin, PhD, Psychologist
Steven Chapin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
I am a psychologist with over 20 years of experience as a therapist working with children, adolescents, adults and couples.
In my work as a therapist, my first priority is to establish a comfortable, respectful working relationship that will allow my clients to begin to focus on the often difficult, painful and complex feelings, issues and situations that have brought them to counseling. My role is to listen carefully and thoughtfully, and to help guide and facilitate discussions that will help my clients to grow and change in beneficial ways, to resolve important conflicts and issues, and to reduce the severity of symptoms such as anxiety, depressed mood and difficulty managing anger.
I am a psychologist with over 20 years of experience as a therapist working with children, adolescents, adults and couples.
In my work as a therapist, my first priority is to establish a comfortable, respectful working relationship that will allow my clients to begin to focus on the often difficult, painful and complex feelings, issues and situations that have brought them to counseling. My role is to listen carefully and thoughtfully, and to help guide and facilitate discussions that will help my clients to grow and change in beneficial ways, to resolve important conflicts and issues, and to reduce the severity of symptoms such as anxiety, depressed mood and difficulty managing anger.
(978) 496-3135 View (978) 496-3135
Photo of Kristen Lampros, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Lampros
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
Accepting new clients for the group practice: Rooted Counseling Services! I am a Clinical Social Worker and the Founder of 'Rooted.' My specialty is within the family context, working with children, families, and parents. My focus when working with children and teens is to help them through the transitions they face with a relational approach and an empathetic ear, all while exploring helpful strategies. I have advanced training in pre and post-natal mental health and I enjoy working with parents while they explore their new journey in parenthood. -Within my group practice, there are several specialized child/family clinicians-
Accepting new clients for the group practice: Rooted Counseling Services! I am a Clinical Social Worker and the Founder of 'Rooted.' My specialty is within the family context, working with children, families, and parents. My focus when working with children and teens is to help them through the transitions they face with a relational approach and an empathetic ear, all while exploring helpful strategies. I have advanced training in pre and post-natal mental health and I enjoy working with parents while they explore their new journey in parenthood. -Within my group practice, there are several specialized child/family clinicians-
(978) 480-8904 View (978) 480-8904
Photo of Lara Buchanan, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lara Buchanan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01718
Waitlist for new clients
I am a clinical social worker in practice for almost 20 years, working with children and young adolescents ages 5 to 15 and their parents. My practice focuses on supporting children to develop the tools, strategies, and self-awareness to navigate life's inevitable stresses and challenges. With compassion and humor, I help my clients learn to lead fulfilling lives, have meaningful relationships, and be more productive in school.
I am a clinical social worker in practice for almost 20 years, working with children and young adolescents ages 5 to 15 and their parents. My practice focuses on supporting children to develop the tools, strategies, and self-awareness to navigate life's inevitable stresses and challenges. With compassion and humor, I help my clients learn to lead fulfilling lives, have meaningful relationships, and be more productive in school.
(978) 231-9723 View (978) 231-9723
Photo of Amanda Kochan, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Kochan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
Hi! I'm Amanda, a Clinical Social Worker and outpatient therapist with the group practice Rooted Counseling Services in Westford, MA. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults and families. My priorities are to help my clients feel empowered and to work through their challenges together.
Hi! I'm Amanda, a Clinical Social Worker and outpatient therapist with the group practice Rooted Counseling Services in Westford, MA. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults and families. My priorities are to help my clients feel empowered and to work through their challenges together.
(978) 577-2807 View (978) 577-2807
Photo of Alexandra Lee Barbar, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Lee Barbar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Older children, adolescents and adults will receive tools and support to better cope with and manage the inherent stress, transitions and loss that we all face as part of living.
Always coming from a place of respect, warmth and authenticity I provide psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults. It is my belief and has been my experience that individuals are resilient and have a wealth of resources within. Drawing from 27 years of training and experience in a variety of settings, we will use a collaborative approach to unearth and/or to build on strengths that develop insight and that foster healing and growth.
Older children, adolescents and adults will receive tools and support to better cope with and manage the inherent stress, transitions and loss that we all face as part of living.
Always coming from a place of respect, warmth and authenticity I provide psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults. It is my belief and has been my experience that individuals are resilient and have a wealth of resources within. Drawing from 27 years of training and experience in a variety of settings, we will use a collaborative approach to unearth and/or to build on strengths that develop insight and that foster healing and growth.
(978) 234-2314 View (978) 234-2314
Photo of Amy C Wolf, MA, LMHC, AT, Counselor
Amy C Wolf
Counselor, MA, LMHC, AT
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Is your child struggling with a new or past life event, change or trauma? Have they experienced a loss? Maybe they are experiencing emotional outbursts, tearfulness, stress or difficulty sleeping at night. Are they having difficulty in school or within the family?
Is your child struggling with a new or past life event, change or trauma? Have they experienced a loss? Maybe they are experiencing emotional outbursts, tearfulness, stress or difficulty sleeping at night. Are they having difficulty in school or within the family?
(351) 777-1161 View (351) 777-1161
Photo of Heather Veague, PhD, Psychologist
Heather Veague
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
I'm happy to connect by phone, online, or in person to just chat and see if I can be helpful to you and/or your child.
Many young people who come to meet with me are apprehensive about therapy. They might worry that I will be silent, expecting them to fill the space with what's difficult to express. Alternatively, they might have encountered therapists who speak more than listen, resulting in a session that feels like a class. Therapy is an investment of time and resources. If you're willing to open yourself up to me, I can promise you that you will be heard, and I will engage authentically. My job is to help you grow to weather emotional storms and build the life you want.
I'm happy to connect by phone, online, or in person to just chat and see if I can be helpful to you and/or your child.
Many young people who come to meet with me are apprehensive about therapy. They might worry that I will be silent, expecting them to fill the space with what's difficult to express. Alternatively, they might have encountered therapists who speak more than listen, resulting in a session that feels like a class. Therapy is an investment of time and resources. If you're willing to open yourself up to me, I can promise you that you will be heard, and I will engage authentically. My job is to help you grow to weather emotional storms and build the life you want.
(508) 545-7491 View (508) 545-7491
Photo of Rebecca Weksner, PsyD, PMH-C, NCSP, Psychologist
Rebecca Weksner
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C, NCSP
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720  (Online Only)
Currently, I am treating children aged 12 years and older, along with adults, and parents seeking support.
Using an individualized approach that utilizes techniques and interventions from a variety of evidence based practices, I work with each person to capitalize on their strengths and harness their hidden resilience.
Currently, I am treating children aged 12 years and older, along with adults, and parents seeking support.
Using an individualized approach that utilizes techniques and interventions from a variety of evidence based practices, I work with each person to capitalize on their strengths and harness their hidden resilience.
(978) 233-4019 View (978) 233-4019
Photo of Shanna R Kraai, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shanna R Kraai
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Not accepting new clients
I have extensive experience working with children, ages 4-18, in schools and in private practice.
I received my Masters of Social Work from the Graduate School of Social Work at the University of Denver with a clinical specialization in families, high-risk youth, and trauma. I have over 15 years of experience as a social worker, with experience in the areas of research, child welfare, juvenile justice, domestic and international school systems, and private practice therapy and assessment. I am passionate about mental health and aspire to create a climate of empathy, creativity, and understanding with families. I am a skilled clinician who strives to build resilience and adaptability.
I have extensive experience working with children, ages 4-18, in schools and in private practice.
I received my Masters of Social Work from the Graduate School of Social Work at the University of Denver with a clinical specialization in families, high-risk youth, and trauma. I have over 15 years of experience as a social worker, with experience in the areas of research, child welfare, juvenile justice, domestic and international school systems, and private practice therapy and assessment. I am passionate about mental health and aspire to create a climate of empathy, creativity, and understanding with families. I am a skilled clinician who strives to build resilience and adaptability.
(978) 295-2967 View (978) 295-2967
Photo of Zucel Leiva Lopez, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Zucel Leiva Lopez
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
I am a bilingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has experience with treatment for children (under 12 y.
The complexity of life can affect our everyday functioning, and how we choose to deal with conflict. We are all affected by conflict. Sometimes we need support to regulate our emotions and make authentic decisions. We all deserve to live fulfilling lives and access the tools we need. I enjoy helping people find their path to emotional well-being. I provide a safe, nurturing, and positive therapeutic space. I honor the client’s experiences and strengths.
I am a bilingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has experience with treatment for children (under 12 y.
The complexity of life can affect our everyday functioning, and how we choose to deal with conflict. We are all affected by conflict. Sometimes we need support to regulate our emotions and make authentic decisions. We all deserve to live fulfilling lives and access the tools we need. I enjoy helping people find their path to emotional well-being. I provide a safe, nurturing, and positive therapeutic space. I honor the client’s experiences and strengths.
(978) 396-4243 View (978) 396-4243
Photo of Suzanne Dirstine, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne Dirstine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
My experience includes extensive work with children and adults in outpatient clinics, sexual abuse treatment teams, inpatient settings and adoption services.
Welcome. I believe that your experience of the therapeutic relationship should be comfortable and feel secure. I utilize an attachment based approach and believe that once feelings of safety are established in therapy that real changes in thoughts, feelings and relationships are possible. I have a warm and interested style of interacting with others and it is always important to me that you feel heard and valued in our time together. Please don't hesitate to get in touch if you'd like to know more or have any questions.
My experience includes extensive work with children and adults in outpatient clinics, sexual abuse treatment teams, inpatient settings and adoption services.
Welcome. I believe that your experience of the therapeutic relationship should be comfortable and feel secure. I utilize an attachment based approach and believe that once feelings of safety are established in therapy that real changes in thoughts, feelings and relationships are possible. I have a warm and interested style of interacting with others and it is always important to me that you feel heard and valued in our time together. Please don't hesitate to get in touch if you'd like to know more or have any questions.
(978) 598-3355 View (978) 598-3355
Photo of Lauren Sava, LCSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Sava
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720  (Online Only)
Has your child been struggling with anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? Are you a parent needing help and support for your child, but struggling to find a therapist who is available and capable of helping your family? As a therapist in a group practice, I am happy to help you and your child through this difficult time. My area of speciality is working with children and adolescents utilizing a strengths-based, resiliency approach. Above all, I aim to support my clients in feeling affirmed in who they are. I prioritize building collaborative and trusting relationships with all my clients and their families.
Has your child been struggling with anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? Are you a parent needing help and support for your child, but struggling to find a therapist who is available and capable of helping your family? As a therapist in a group practice, I am happy to help you and your child through this difficult time. My area of speciality is working with children and adolescents utilizing a strengths-based, resiliency approach. Above all, I aim to support my clients in feeling affirmed in who they are. I prioritize building collaborative and trusting relationships with all my clients and their families.
(978) 643-2863 View (978) 643-2863
Photo of Elise Jacobson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elise Jacobson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I’ve helped many adults and children seeking support during times of transition, emotional confusion or family stress. Practice members are looking to understand themselves, improve relationships and their parenting. Some struggle to explain themselves clearly and effectively. Many of my clients are seeking a PDA affirming and trained practitioner.
I’ve helped many adults and children seeking support during times of transition, emotional confusion or family stress. Practice members are looking to understand themselves, improve relationships and their parenting. Some struggle to explain themselves clearly and effectively. Many of my clients are seeking a PDA affirming and trained practitioner.
(508) 444-8739 View (508) 444-8739
Photo of Susan Hunter-Jones, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Hunter-Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
I have over 30 years of experience providing psychotherapy to children and adults using an integration of cognitive behavioral therapy and other evidence based practices.
Using a holistic approach I provide a safe and trusting space for you to share, reflect, and learn. If you are feeling anxious, depressed, or facing challenges in your life, I can help. As we work together through the therapuetic process it is my goal to help you discover renewed strength and energy to make healthy decisions and change negative patterns of thinking, behaving, and interacting. You will learn coping strategies that enable you to view yourself through a new and gentler lens and find happiness in the simple joys of daily living.
I have over 30 years of experience providing psychotherapy to children and adults using an integration of cognitive behavioral therapy and other evidence based practices.
Using a holistic approach I provide a safe and trusting space for you to share, reflect, and learn. If you are feeling anxious, depressed, or facing challenges in your life, I can help. As we work together through the therapuetic process it is my goal to help you discover renewed strength and energy to make healthy decisions and change negative patterns of thinking, behaving, and interacting. You will learn coping strategies that enable you to view yourself through a new and gentler lens and find happiness in the simple joys of daily living.
(508) 433-7051 View (508) 433-7051
Child Therapists
Child psychologists in Acton, MA provide mental health therapy to children and are experts in child development.

Every comprehensive review of therapy with children shows that all credible approaches, when performed by a competent mental health clinician, produce almost the same results. About half of all kids will get better. Of those that improve, 80% will show progress in a relatively short time, while the remaining 20% will need longer-term support.

The best child therapists in Acton build great relationships with the child and the parent. They also see the child's strengths and are open to hearing the child's possible solutions to the challenges the child faces. Finally, a good therapist appreciates the child's culture and is sensitive to the values of the child's community.