Melissa Kannapel
LCSW, Certified Synergetic Play Therapist, Circle of Security Parenting Facilitator
Hello! I’m Melissa (she/her)- I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with my bachelor’s in Early Childhood Development. As a child, I was deeply feeling- I had intense tantrums, was often described as “overly sensitive,” and even cried when my little brother got a shot at the doctor. It often felt like my reactions came “out of nowhere.” My parents were perplexed, exhausted, and struggled to understand what I needed. As an adult, I have made it my mission to help similarly wired kids not only understand themselves, but build the skills to thrive and the voice to help others understand them, too.
I have witnessed kids of so many different backgrounds and experiences find healing in my office. Whether your child is LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, has an intellectual disability, is experiencing bullying, struggling with intense aggressive or elopement behaviors, or just seems withdrawn or “off,” there is a place for them in my office.
Many children face confusion and overwhelm as they move through the world taking in all the (often conflicting) ways adults think they “should” be, feel, and behave. My goal as their therapist is not to add my own “shoulds” onto their plate, but to be with them through their own self-discovery of who they truly are. ”But what if they decide their ‘true self’ is a kid who never cleans up after themselves and throws toys at their sibling,” you ask? What an important question that deserves to be explored with your needs included, too- Let’s talk about it!
I partner with caregivers in their path toward gaining clarity and confidence in understanding their kids’ needs not only on a concrete, neurobiological level, but a deep level of attunement as well. As a trained Circle of Security Parenting (COSP) facilitator, I walk alongside caregivers as they begin to understand their own experiences of isolation, hopelessness, overwhelm, and shame that parents often face where their kids are struggling. I would love to be invited on your journey as you and your family find your way back into connection with yourselves and each other.