Toawondia Underwood

Hello, I'm Toawondia, a compassionate and collaborative therapist specializing in counseling children and adolescents in partnership with their parents and caregivers. With extensive experience in non-profit, school, and private practice settings, I focus on mental health and have honed my skills in creating a safe and supportive environment. Here, children, adolescents, and families can explore their emotions, develop healthy coping strategies, and achieve personal growth at home, school, and in the community.

I understand child development and the importance of helping clients set goals and identify healthy coping strategies. Therefore, I focus on establishing rapport and creating a positive therapeutic environment by discussing my interests and activities, which are some of my best coping skills, with my clients and their families, such as listening to music, cooking, crafting, and traveling.

I earned my Bachelor of Arts and Sciences degree in Sociology with a concentration in Family and Community Services from Georgia State University. I also earned a Master of Education in School Counseling from Cambridge College. Currently, I am working on a Doctor of Education in Community Care and Counseling with a focus on traumatology at Liberty University. My specialized training focuses on child and adolescent-development needs, equipping me with an understanding of young individuals’ challenges.

I am well-versed in several therapeutic modalities, with expertise in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), cognitive processing therapy (CPT), solution-focused therapy, and person-centered therapy. I strongly believe in tailoring my approach to each client’s specific needs, utilizing effective techniques to address various emotional and behavioral issues.

In my work with children and adolescents, I integrate play therapy, bibliotherapy, and other creative techniques to engage and connect with my clients. I understand that children and adolescents may struggle to articulate their thoughts and emotions verbally, and I utilize age-appropriate interventions to facilitate communication and understanding.

I have a wealth of experience in non-profit, school, and private practice settings working with diverse populations of children and adolescents. I have helped clients navigate various challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), behavioral issues, and social difficulties. I am skilled at fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship where clients feel supported and empowered to make positive changes.

I am a passionate advocate for mental health awareness in schools and have conducted numerous workshops and trainings for educators, parents, and fellow professionals. I firmly believe in the importance of a holistic approach to well-being, collaborating closely with families, schools, and other professionals involved in my clients’ lives to ensure comprehensive care with the appropriate consent.

Each child and adolescent possesses unique strengths and the capacity for growth. I approach therapy with empathy, warmth, and a genuine desire to understand my clients’ experiences. I aim to empower young individuals to develop resilience, build healthy relationships, and achieve their full potential by providing a nurturing and non-judgmental space. If you are seeking compassionate and effective therapy for your child or adolescent, I am committed to supporting their emotional well-being and guiding them on their journey toward a happier and healthier life.