Hi, my name is Ani (Ah-knee), and I am a pre-licensed therapist with an MA from the University of Saint Thomas, GSPP, working under the supervision of Jennifer Kokes, MA, LPC, LPCC. I have worked with children in a mental health setting for around 3 years, and am a psychotherapist who primarily works with children ages 3 through 18 with emotional and behavioral challenges. I love working with children and teens because of the honesty, creativity, and resilience they bring into the therapy room. Every child has their own way of making sense of the world, and I feel honored to be part of that process. With younger children, I use child-centered play therapy, with the play becoming the language for expressing feelings and experiences. For teens and young adults, I use a person-centered approach—whether through conversation, creativity, or activities—so they have space to explore who they are and what they need in a way that feels natural and supportive. My goal in therapy is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where kids and teens feel truly seen and understood. I want them to leave sessions with a stronger sense of self, new coping tools, and confidence that they can handle life’s challenges. I also partner with parents, caregivers, schools, and more, because I believe growth is most powerful when it’s supported not only at home but in other relationships. If you’re looking for a therapist who can meet your child where they're at and walk alongside your family, I’d be glad to connect.