MSW, LCSW-A

Tessa is a Licensed Clinical Social Work Associate (LCSWA) with a Master of Social Work degree who approaches her work with deep empathy, curiosity, and respect for each person’s unique story. She believes that meaningful healing begins within a safe, compassionate relationship and that therapy should be a place where clients feel truly seen, understood, and supported.

Tessa’s approach is holistic, person-centered, and trauma-informed, recognizing that healing involves the mind, body, and emotions. She works collaboratively with her clients to meet them where they are and to help them build greater self-awareness, resilience, and connection. Her calm, nurturing presence allows children, teens, and families to explore their experiences at their own pace, knowing they are held in a space of patience and care.

With a deep passion for working with children, Tessa is committed to helping them heal, grow, and thrive. She finds joy in helping young clients develop a stronger sense of self and express their feelings in healthy, creative ways. Tessa partners closely with caregivers to strengthen the bonds between children and their families, believing that secure attachment and strong relationships are the foundation for lifelong emotional well-being.

Tessa has a particular interest in helping families navigate challenges related to anxiety, behavioral concerns, emotional regulation, and trauma. She incorporates play, storytelling, and creativity into her sessions, allowing children to communicate through their natural language of play.

She is currently receiving specialized training in play therapy under the supervision of Sara Bagramian, LCSW, RPT-S, as she continues to deepen her skills in supporting children and families through play-based interventions.

Tessa joined the Oak City Counseling team in the summer of 2025 and is thrilled to be part of a community dedicated to compassionate, relationship-based care. She currently has limited openings for children ages 2 and up, as well as teens.