Mary Ellen West, LCSW

3724 Jefferson Street, Suite 207 Austin, TX, 78731

(512) 201-2995

Private practice therapist in Austin, Texas specializing in mental health counseling for children and adolescents

Nurtured Heart Approach® (NHA) Advanced Trainer

Being a kid today is not always easy.

Parenting can be difficult.

Sometimes we need a fresh perspective and new tools to help us cope with life’s challenges and difficulties.

I collaborate with children and their families to find solutions, boost capabilities and improve relationships.

I create a safe and comfortable space for children and teens to express themselves, discover their unique character strengths and become strong on the inside.

I work with parents to define and implement a clear and effective parenting strategy to nurture their child’s success.

About Me

My mission is to help children thrive and recognize their own strengths, resilience and qualities of greatness. Whether it’s providing the support to overcome challenges, or helping to turn around negative behavior patterns, I work within the context of a positive, nurturing relationship. I especially enjoy collaborating with families to improve parent-child interactions and reduce stress.

Since becoming a licensed social worker in 2005, I’ve worked with toddlers through teens on issues including behavior difficulties, anxiety, depression, parent-child relationships, coping strategies, social skills, trauma and grief. Working for local nonprofits Austin Child Guidance Center and Communities in Schools, I have counseled kids and their parents in a variety of clinical and educational settings. I have led classes and workshops for parents, educators, mental health professionals and university students.

I am a Stanford graduate with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from The University of Texas at Austin. I regularly engage in conferences, workshops, study groups and consultation to enhance my knowledge and effectiveness. I am also fortunate to gain valuable (and sometimes humbling) lessons and insight from real-world parenting experiences with my own children. Areas of interest and study include parent-child relationships, attachment, mindfulness, mind-body connection, self-compassion, stress management, resilience and interpersonal neurobiology.

I am a certified Advanced Trainer for the Nurtured Heart Approach,® a method of intentionally building relationships with children while recognizing strengths and celebrating success. This approach underpins my work with with children, families and parents.

LICENSES AND PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

EDUCATION

  • The University of Texas at Austin - MSSW, Clinical Social Work

  • Stanford University - AB, Political Science, Public Policy Concentration, Psychology Minor

 

To schedule a free 20-minute phone consultation, call (512) 201-2995 or email maryellen@westfamilytherapy.com today.