“In play, children make sense of a world too big for words.”
Mary “katie” Minor
Lcsw rpt
registered Play therapist
Welcome, and thank you for taking the time to learn a little more about me. I know how important it is to find the right fit when it comes to your child’s care. You want someone who not only understands clinical work but also truly sees and values who your child is. I’ve dedicated my career to supporting the future of tomorrow, today’s children and adolescents, and I consider it a privilege to walk alongside families in both the joyful and challenging seasons of life.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Registered Play Therapist with specialized training in child-centered play therapy and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT). My background includes working with children as young as three and teens up to eighteen in a variety of settings, including home visits, school-based therapy, and support for children in the foster care system. I also work closely with parents and caregivers, offering psychoeducation and practical tools for strengthening connection and understanding at home.
My approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and the belief that children express what they cannot say through their play. I use non-directive, child-centered play therapy to help kids safely explore their inner world and make sense of what they’re experiencing. Whether we’re addressing anxiety, trauma, grief, or major life transitions like divorce or adoption, I tailor the work to meet your child where they are developmentally and emotionally.
One area especially close to my heart is supporting families navigating the complexities of adoption and foster care. As a transracial adoptee myself, I bring both professional training and lived experience to this work. I understand that adoption often carries layers of grief, including grief for what was lost, what could have been, and what may never fully be understood. These feelings can be confusing for children, especially when they don’t yet have the words to explain them.
This is true for many kids who have experienced complex grief, whether through adoption, divorce, death, or significant life disruptions. Grief in childhood doesn’t always look like sadness. It can show up as anger, anxiety, trouble concentrating, or withdrawal. Part of my role as a therapist is helping children process these invisible wounds and helping families make sense of what’s really going on beneath the behavior. I hold space for the full emotional experience and guide children toward healing in ways that feel safe and empowering.
I’m known for building rapport with kids who often struggle to connect with other adults. It’s something I feel deeply called to, helping children feel safe, seen, and understood. Outside the therapy room, I’m a proud lefty and cat mom to two quirky cats, Maggie and Emmi. Maggie only has three legs, but you’d never know it. She zooms around like she owns the place.
If you're looking for support for your child or family, I’d love to connect. You don’t have to do this alone. Together, we can create a path toward more healing, connection, and growth.