My name is Malia and I am a therapist (LCSW-NJ & RPT-S) as well as a provider of quality continuing education, supervision, coaching and workshops for:
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mental health clinicians
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educators at every level
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parents of kids ages 3-18
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adults ages 18+
The most empowering element to my work is offering you the permission to do things your way; free from judgment and from a place of inner-knowing.
What is Rebellious Evolution?
I started my work with an intense and dedicated focus on children. This part of my professional career is alive and well, although as I've - evolved - I've become ever more self-aware and keen on supporting people of all ages, with different types of problems. I actually quite enjoy problems and finding ways to improve.
The rebellious part of my evolution, is the awareness that nothing *has* to be a certain or specific way just because it's tradition or typical. I don't consider myself rebelliously EDGY, but I am of the mindset that just because someone said to do it this way, doesn't mean that it's an absolute truth.
About Play Therapy
the modality that started it all for me...
Working with kids was a clear, early passion for me. Because I struggled as a student and had a challenging childhood, I was drawn toward helping children uncover their strengths and recognize their own capacity toward positive growth and change.
Play therapy is an evidence-based practice that facilitates pro-social development in children, fosters stronger attachment bonds with caregivers and has excellent implications for the future well-being of those who participate. Prospective families should know that I practice a hybrid of non-directive child centered play therapy and Synergetic Play Therapy in my work. Kids are permitted to be loud, messy, expressive in our therapy sessions. Parents are offered strategies & support to enhance their child's 1:1 work.
Those seeking in-person therapy for themselves or their children can work with me at The Therapy Institute, located in Shrewsbury, New Jersey, USA.
TESTIMONIALS
How has Malia & her approach impacted children across environments; home, school, friends?
Erich A.
"After about 4 months of play therapy sessions, our child began to use the self-regulation skills that Malia modeled during their sessions together. We saw less meltdowns and heard more 'belly breaths'. My wife & I also learned how to step into our 'parenting power' with Malia's support & guidance."
Helen R.
"Malia helped my child with their anxiety symptoms that were affecting our sleep and day-to-day functioning. I watched their confidence grow in new & challenging situations. I received so many compliments about how much more polite and regulated they were."
Chris F.
"Malia has a true passion for student mental health services, enhancing self-awareness, reducing challenging student behavior & increasing adult understanding of the 'why' behind the things that drive teachers up the wall."
