Smith Canyon Counseling

So when they suddenly seem anxious, overwhelmed, withdrawn, or just…different, you know something has changed. Maybe they’re melting down over homework, dreading school, worrying about what others think, struggling with friendships, putting impossible pressure on themselves, or pulling away from the people they love. You may find yourself wondering: “Is this normal?” “How do I help?” If your gut is telling you something isn’t right, trust it. You don’t have to figure out what comes next alone. I work with middle and high school students, along with their parents, to understand what’s behind the changes you’re seeing and build the skills, confidence, and connection needed to move forward together. _ -A Different Approach for Resistant Kids & Teens- Let's start with less pressure. If your child is struggling with anxiety, school refusal, or academic avoidance, the last thing you need is another battle about going to therapy. Many tweens & teens are understandably resistant to counseling before they’ve even met the person they’ll be talking to. That’s why I offer a complimentary, low-pressure 30-minute "Meet & Greet" before asking your child to commit to therapy. It’s not therapy. There’s no pressure or commitment. It’s simply a chance for your child to meet me, check out the space, and decide whether I feel like someone they could actually talk to. I tell kids upfront: “This isn’t therapy. We’re just figuring out if we’re a good fit.” If I’m not their person, that’s okay. We can meet in my office in Driggs or virtually through secure telehealth from home. _ -How I Can Help- For your child: We’ll build practical skills for managing anxiety, navigating friendships, regulating emotions, communicating effectively, and developing lasting confidence. For you: You’ll gain a better understanding of what’s underneath your child’s behavior, practical strategies that fit your family, and a place to get support without judgment. Because parenting a middle or high schooler isn’t always easy, and you shouldn’t have to do it alone, either. _ -Why Families Choose Smith Canyon Counseling- My 16 years as a school counselor gave me a front-row seat to the real world of adolescence. I saw what happens in classrooms, hallways, lunchrooms, locker rooms, group chats, and social media, not just the counseling office. With a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology, I combine evidence-based therapy with real-world experience supporting students through the social, emotional, and academic challenges of adolescence. My approach is warm, collaborative, practical, and LGBTQ+ affirming. My goal is simple: to help your child feel seen, understood, and capable while building skills and confidence they’ll carry long after these school years are behind them. _ -Let’s Talk- I offer a free 15-minute consultation for parents in Idaho and Wyoming. Let’s talk about what you’re seeing, what you’ve tried, and whether I might be a good fit for your family. _ -Insurance & Affordability- Finding the right support for your child shouldn’t be complicated, including the financial side of therapy. I’m currently expanding my insurance networks, and families with plans I’m in the process of joining don’t have to wait to get started. _Wyoming_ Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming: Active Aetna: In progress Medicaid: In progress _Idaho_ Aetna: Active as of 9/4/26 Regence BlueShield: In progress Blue Cross of Idaho: In progress PacificSource: In progress If you have one of these plans that is currently in progress, I’m offering $80 sessions in the interim to help bridge the gap until my network status is official. Book a free 15-minute consultation to talk through your child’s needs, verify your benefits, and get ready to go when your insurance coverage is active.