ANDREA BUENO-ACOSTA, CHILD THERAPIST IN HOLLY SPRINGS, NC
I believe your family has better days ahead.
You remember a time when frequent meltdowns or outbursts weren’t the “norm”, but those days feel like a distant memory… Don’t you wish you had the tools to change that?
You’re in the right place.
I’m Andrea, and I help young children (ages 3-10) and their parents (just like you: the ones that have it within them to remain attuned to their child and provide them with support when they’re in the midst of a meltdown, but you just need the support to get there).
I help my clients find a sense of connection and increased security by equipping them and their grownups with the tools they need to better understand themselves and one another.
Many of today’s solutions for problematic behaviors occurring at home or school are one-size-fits-all, leading so many to feel like their child isn’t being seen by their therapist. And many parents are also struggling to find a parenting approach that “feels right” for them based on their core values and lack the support to try “new ways” of parenting. I know that you and your child’s circumstances are unique, so every step we take is tailored to their needs.
I am dedicated to helping children grow and thrive.
My training in play therapy means I have the expertise that your child needs (and deserves) as they start to explore their feelings, experiences, and hardships. But at the end of the day, you want to know you’re working with someone who “gets” what it means to be a parent who is overwhelmed with the intensity of their child’s big feelings and big behaviors, right?
I get it- I am a parent of a toddler and I am regularly reminded of just how difficult it can be to support our child(ren) in the midst of their dysregulation.
When the “tough times” last for days, weeks, months, or years, it becomes overwhelming for children and parents (and often for the rest of the family, too). And as parents we can start to feel hopeless and believe that nothing will ever change… But you can get help moving forward.
When we work together, you won’t just get a trained therapist. You’ll get someone who understands part of what you’re going through AND prioritizes supporting the child, the parent, and their relationship.
My core values
Relationship
I firmly believe that change happens through relationships. I strive to create safe, nurturing, and trusting relationships with every child and I help parents and children strengthen their relationship.
Acceptance
The playroom is a safe space where children and their grownups can express themselves freely without fear of judgment. Your child and you are accepted, seen, and valued as you are.
Authenticity
Authenticity is key in fostering safety and connection. I promise to bring my full self into my work so that your child and you can feel safe to bring all of you!
Training & Education
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor #16294 in North Carolina
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Appalachian State University
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Florida International University
Specialized training in Child-Centered Play Therapy and Child-Parent Relationship Therapy
Completed Level One Therapy & MIM training and receiving ongoing supervision and consultation
Actively pursuing the Registered Play Therapist credential (anticipated Spring 2025)
Completed several trainings focused on the use of Sandtray techniques
specializing in:
Play Therapy
Parent Support
Child-Parent Relationship Therapy
