Emma Virden, LICSW

I am a relational therapist who specializes in working with young children, parents, and adults navigating depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, adoption/foster care, attachment issues, self-esteem, emotional regulation, sense of self, and parenting. I believe healing happens in the context of safe, supportive relationships, and I strive to create a warm, welcoming space where you feel seen, understood, and accepted just as you are.

I am passionate about working with children and adults who have experienced attachment trauma, including within the world of adoption and foster care. I take a family systems and attachment-based approach, building in resourcing, referrals to additional services, psychoeducation, and deep trauma work to honor and heal attachment wounds.

My approach is collaborative and insight-oriented and tailored to each individual and family. I draw from Internal Family Systems to help clients explore and understand the different parts of themselves, fostering self-compassion and clarity. I also integrate mindfulness techniques to support emotional regulation, present-moment awareness, and resilience in everyday life.

For those working through trauma or distressing experiences, I offer Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), a structured and effective approach that helps the brain process and resolve painful memories in a way that feels contained and empowering.

Children & Families

I am trained in Somatic Experiential Play Therapy, which builds upon the natural way kids express themselves: through play. In this low pressure environment, children can express what is troubling them through play when words aren’t yet accessible. It’s through play that their feelings, and then behaviors, can begin to change.

Caregivers are a key part of the therapy process. Together, we will explore your experiences find ways to support you through the challenges you’re facing. You can expect a nonjudgmental and supportive space where we navigate ways to help your child in and out of sessions. I will incorporate psychoeducation on child development, attachment, and neurobiology to establish a more comprehensive understanding and to best meet your family where you are.