Generated by Rank Math SEO, this is an llms.txt file designed to help LLMs better understand and index this website. # Connections Child and Family Center: Connections Child & Family Center (CCFC) is a Houston-area therapy practice specializing in children, teens, adults, and families. We provide evidence-based counseling and structured programs for anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavior challenges, emotion dysregulation, and family conflict. Our team is trauma-informed, inclusive, and parent-involved—so caregivers get practical tools to support progress at home. We offer in-person therapy in Houston and online therapy across Texas, with services that may include individual, family, and DBT-informed skills support. ## Sitemaps [XML Sitemap](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages. ## Posts - [When the Holidays Feel Heavy: Understanding Family Stress During the Season](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/when-the-holidays-feel-heavy-understanding-family-stress-during-the-season/): The holiday season arrives wrapped in messages of joy, magic, and celebration. But for many families, the holidays are far more complex. Behind the photos, decorations, and traditions, there is often a quieter truth: this time of year can be deeply stressful. - [How to Make Therapy More Accessible in 2026: A Guide for Families Navigating Rising Healthcare Costs](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/how-to-make-therapy-more-accessible-in-2026-a-guide-for-families-navigating-rising-healthcare-costs/): By Connections Child & Family Center - [Strengthening Family Communication and Connection in Conroe, TX](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/strengthening-family-communication-and-connection-in-conroe-tx/): Every family wants better communication—but no one hands us a manual on how to create it. Learn how. - [When to Start Therapy as an Adult in Conroe, TX](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/whentostaytherapyasanadult/): Adult therapy in Conroe TX supporting individuals managing stress and rediscovering balance. - [ Finding the Right Therapist for Your Child in The Woodlands, TX](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/finding-the-right-therapist-for-your-child-in-the-woodlands-tx/): “Child therapist in The Woodlands TX helping children and families build confidence and emotional health.” - [Teaching Kids Respectful Disagreement in a Divisive World](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/teaching-kids-respectful-disagreement/): Why compassion, critical thinking and respectful disagreement matter more than ever - [There is No Such Thing as TMI: Talking Dyspareunia Treatment with a PT](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/talking-dyspareunia-treatment-with-pt/): Painful intimacy isn’t just physical - it affects you emotionally. Learn more about dyspareunia treatment from a PT expert and how to reclaim your intimacy. - [How DBT Can Help with Anxiety](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/how-dbt-can-help-with-anxiety/): Everyone feels anxious sometimes. Maybe it's before a big test, during a presentation, or when you're meeting new people. But for some people, anxiety can feel overwhelming and hard to control. If anxiety is making life difficult, there’s a type of therapy that might help: Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). - [How Can Parents Stay Involved in Their Child’s Therapy?](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/how-can-parents-stay-involved-in-their-childs-therapy/): While individual therapy focuses on one person's issues, family-centered therapy considers how family dynamics contribute to and are affected by individual problems. - [Unraveling the Secret Sauce: Factors Happy Couples Have in Common](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/unraveling-the-secret-sauce-factors-happy-couples-have-in-common/): Love is a beautiful journey, and for some lucky couples, it's a journey filled with happiness and fulfillment. Have you ever wondered what makes these couples so happy? Is it sheer luck, or is there a secret recipe they follow? Well, the good news is that happiness in a relationship is not just a roll of the dice; there are common factors that happy couples share. In this blog, we'll dive into the key ingredients that contribute to the joy and contentment in these successful partnerships. So, whether you're in a relationship or looking for one, these insights may hold the key to a happier, more fulfilling love life! - [Conquer Workplace Anxiety: 3 Tips for Finding Calm Amidst the Chaos](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/conquer-workplace-anxiety-3-tips-for-finding-calm-amidst-the-chaos/): In the fast-paced world of work, anxiety can sneak up on even the most seasoned professionals. From looming deadlines to high-stakes presentations, it's no wonder that the workplace can sometimes feel like a breeding ground for stress. But fear not! In this blog, we'll unveil three powerful tips to help you conquer anxiety at work and find your inner calm amidst the chaos. - [Building Resilience in Children: Practical Strategies for Parents](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/building-resilience-in-children-practical-strategies-for-parents/): If you are interested in learning more about our family-centered therapy services or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us today. Together, we can build stronger connections and promote healing for the entire family. - [The Importance of Caring for the Caregivers](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/the-importance-of-caring-for-the-caregivers/): While individual therapy focuses on one person's issues, family-centered therapy considers how family dynamics contribute to and are affected by individual problems. - [Why Family-Centered Therapy Matters: Building Stronger Connections](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/why-family-centered-therapy-matters-building-stronger-connections/): At Connections, we believe that the whole family plays a crucial role in a child's mental health. Family-centered therapy focuses on enhancing relationships and improving communication among family members. This approach not only supports the child but also empowers parents with the tools they need to foster a healthy, supportive home environment. - [The Role of Psychological Evaluations: A Roadmap to Effective Therapy](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/the-role-of-psychological-evaluations-a-roadmap-to-effective-therapy/): Psychological evaluations are a cornerstone of effective therapy, providing a comprehensive understanding of a child's strengths and areas for growth. At Connections Child and Family Center, we use these evaluations to create personalized treatment plans that pave the way for successful therapeutic outcomes. - [Finding the Balance: Screen Time Tips for Summer Fun with Kids](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/finding-the-balance-screen-time-tips-for-summer-fun-with-kids/): Hey there, fellow parents! As summer rolls around, so does the eternal struggle of managing screen time with our kiddos. With those endless days of freedom stretching out ahead, it’s tempting to let them dive headfirst into the digital world. But fear not! Finding that sweet spot between tech time and outdoor adventures is totally doable. Here are some tips and tricks to help strike the right balance: - [EMDR for Trauma: Understanding Its Role in Healing and Recovery](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/emdr-for-trauma/): In approaching EMDR for trauma, you'll encounter several challenges and important considerations. The therapy is powerful for many, but it is not without its complexities. The process can invoke intense emotions and requires careful navigation to ensure safety and effectiveness. - [Types Of Anxiety In Kids And Teens: Symptoms And Management Strategies](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/anxiety-in-kids-and-teens/): Anxiety is a normal part of childhood and adolescence, but when fears and worries persist, they can take a significant toll on a young person's well-being. It's important for you to recognize the different forms of anxiety that can affect kids and teens so you can understand the challenges they may face. Anxiety in young people can manifest in various ways ranging from general nervousness to specific phobias, and recognizing these types can be the first step in seeking appropriate support and intervention. - [What Causes Kids to Have Meltdowns: Childhood Emotional Outbursts](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/why-kids-have-meltdowns/): Understanding the triggers behind your child's meltdowns can often feel like solving a complex puzzle. Classic childhood meltdowns are intense bursts of behavior that can include crying, yelling, and other forms of emotional release. They often occur because children have yet to develop the necessary language skills or coping mechanisms to properly express their feelings and needs. As you try to navigate through these challenging episodes, it's important to recognize that various underlying factors can provoke them. - [Teen Social Media and Mental Health: Understanding the Impact](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/teen-social-media/): As you navigate the ever-evolving landscape of social media, it's important to consider its impact on mental health, especially among teens. With platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat becoming virtual extensions of daily life, understanding the correlation between screen time and psychological well-being has never been more crucial. Research indicates that teens spending more than three hours per day on social media might be more susceptible to mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. This finding highlights the necessity of moderating social media use and recognizing potential warning signs of distress. - [Finding Peace Within: Mindfulness Exercises for Coping with Trauma](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/finding-peace-within-mindfulness-exercises-for-coping-with-trauma/): Trauma can leave us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected, but mindfulness exercises offer a path to inner peace and resilience. By bringing our focus to the present moment without judgment, we can gradually heal from the wounds of the past. In this blog, we'll explore practical mindfulness exercises that can aid in coping with trauma and nurturing a deeper connection with ourselves. - [The Brainstorm: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Teenage Brain](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/the-brainstorm-unraveling-the-mysteries-of-the-teenage-brain/): Ah, adolescence—a time of growth, exploration, and seemingly endless changes. As parents, teachers, and mentors, we often find ourselves scratching our heads, wondering why teenagers act the way they do. Well, fret not! The secrets lie within the teenage brain, and it's time for us to unravel the fascinating phenomenon known as the "brainstorm." - [Unspoken Messages: Understanding Trauma in the Body](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/understanding-trauma-in-the-body/): Trauma is not just confined to the mind; it leaves deep imprints on the body as well. Our bodies silently carry the weight of traumatic experiences, speaking volumes about the pain we may struggle to put into words. In this blog, we'll explore the fascinating and often misunderstood phenomenon of trauma in the body, shedding light on how our physical being responds to overwhelming events and the importance of healing both mind and body. - [Raising the Extraordinary: Nurturing Your Highly Sensitive Child/Teen](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/raising-the-extraordinary-nurturing-your-highly-sensitive-child-teen/): In a world that often celebrates toughness and resilience, it’s essential to recognize and embrace the beauty of sensitivity. If you’re a parent of a highly sensitive child or teenager, you have the privilege of raising an extraordinary soul with a unique and deeply perceptive perspective. In this blog, we’ll delve into the world of highly sensitive children and teens, exploring their traits, needs, and how you can support their emotional well-being. - [Why Most People Misunderstand Anxiety](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/why-most-people-misunderstand-anxiety/): Anxiety is a common human experience, and nearly everyone goes through it at some point in their lives. However, it remains one of the most misunderstood and stigmatized mental health issues in today's society. It's crucial to shed light on this often-misunderstood topic to foster empathy and more compassion, support, and effective treatment for those who live with anxiety. In this blog, we'll explore the reasons why most people misunderstand anxiety and what we can do to bridge the gap of understanding. - [Unlocking Healing Within: Somatic Trauma Treatment](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/unlocking-healing-within-somatic-trauma-treatment/): In the realm of trauma treatment, the mind and body are inextricably linked, and somatic trauma treatment offers a unique approach that recognizes and addresses this profound connection. By focusing on the body’s physical sensations, movements, and energy, somatic therapy seeks to unlock the healing potential that lies within us. In this blog, we’ll dive into the world of somatic trauma treatment, exploring its principles, techniques, and the transformative power it holds for trauma survivors. - [Unraveling Trauma: Your Journey to Healing](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/unraveling-trauma-your-journey-to-healing/): Today, we’re going to dive into the world of trauma and how it affects us in ways we may not even realize. Trauma is like this big, heavy backpack we carry, and it’s essential to understand its impact on our brains, bodies, and emotional well-being. But don’t worry, we’ll also talk about how you can start healing and reclaiming your life. - [Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Why They Matter](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/understanding-adverse-childhood-experiences-aces-and-why-they-matter/): Understanding ACEs and their impact is crucial for creating a more compassionate and supportive society. By recognizing the long-term effects of childhood trauma, we can work towards implementing trauma-informed practices, supporting those who have experienced ACEs, and ultimately breaking the cycle of adversity. Every child deserves a safe and nurturing environment that sets the stage for a healthier and happier adulthood. - [TIPP Skill: Turning the Temperature Down on Emotional Intensity](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/tipp-skill-turning-the-temperature-down-on-emotional-intensity/): How to Use the TIPP Skill: - [Who’s an Ideal Client for DBT: A Path to Empowerment and Emotional Well-Being](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/whos-an-ideal-client-for-dbt/): Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a specialized and evidence-based treatment approach that has proven highly effective in helping individuals navigate emotional challenges and improve their overall well-being. While DBT can be beneficial for a wide range of people, there are specific characteristics that make someone an ideal client for this transformative therapy. Let's explore who is an ideal client for DBT is and how they can benefit from this empowering therapeutic journey. - [Navigating PTSD as a Supportive Spouse: Understanding and Empathy](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/navigating-ptsd-as-a-supportive-spouse-understanding-and-empathy/): Living with a partner who has Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can present unique challenges for both of you. As a loving and supportive spouse, it’s essential to educate yourself about PTSD and its impact on your loved one’s life. By gaining understanding and practicing empathy, you can create a nurturing environment that promotes healing and growth. We’ll explore some essential insights for spouses of individuals with PTSD. - [SPACE: Empowering Parents to Nourish Anxious Childhood Emotions](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/space-empowering-parents-to-nourish-anxious-childhood-emotions/): Childhood anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) are common mental health challenges that affect many young minds. As parents, we play a pivotal role in supporting our children through these difficult emotions and helping them build resilience. SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) is an evidence-based, parent-focused treatment that helps caregivers with the tools to nurture the child's emotional well-being.  - [Paced Breathing: The Calming Cadence to Soothe Your Soul](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/paced-breathing-the-calming-cadence-to-soothe-your-soul/): Feeling overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of life? Longing for a moment of tranquility amidst the chaos? Say hello to paced breathing, your ticket to instant calmness and inner peace. - [GIVE Skill: Building Bridges of Connection](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/give-skill-building-bridges-of-connection/): In the realm of emotional intelligence, the GIVE skill shines as a true gem. GIVE, a fundamental component of DBT, stands for Gentle, Interested, Validating, and Easy manner. This powerful skill serves as a bridge of connection in your interpersonal interactions, allowing you to navigate conflicts and build meaningful relationships. - [5 Compelling Reasons Why You Need DBT Skills for a Balanced Life](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/5-compelling-reasons-why-you-need-dbt-skills-for-a-balanced-life/): Life is a journey filled with ups and downs, and sometimes, we need effective tools to navigate the challenges that come our way. Enter Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills—a set of practical techniques designed to enhance emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and overall well-being. Whether you’re struggling with emotional turbulence or simply aiming for personal growth, here are five compelling reasons why you need DBT skills in your life. - [What is the Safe and Sound Protocol and How Can It Help You?](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/what-is-the-safe-and-sound-protocol-and-how-can-it-help-you/): Based on Polyvagal Theory  - [DBT: Four Stages of Treatment](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/dbt-four-stages-of-treatment/): What is DBT and what does it treat? - [Navigating Emotions: Understanding Emotional Dysregulation and Distress Tolerance](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/navigating-emotions-understanding-emotional-dysregulation-and-distress-tolerance/): Emotions are an integral part of the human experience, they inform us about the world around us and what’s important to us, and they can be incredibly powerful forces that shape our thoughts and behaviors. However, managing emotions is a skills that few of us are actually taught growing up. For many people managing, emotions can be challenging, leading to emotional dysregulation. Distress tolerance is also a skill that can help individuals cope with overwhelming emotions so as to not ‘make matters worse.’. In this blog, we will delve into the differences between emotional dysregulation and distress tolerance, exploring how these concepts impact our mental well-being and the strategies to cultivate healthier emotional responses. - [Finding Stability in Chaos: Five Tips for Grounding Yourself](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/finding-stability-in-chaos-five-tips-for-grounding-yourself/): Trauma can feel like being caught in a storm, with emotions overwhelming us and our thoughts spinning out of control. During these moments, grounding techniques can be a lifeline, helping you find stability.  Let’s review five tips to help you stay present, connected, and anchored. - [Eating Disorder or Disordered Eating? ](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/eating-disorder-or-disordered-eating/): Eating Disorder or Disordered Eating?  By Shannan Blum, LMFT, CEDS - [All About DBT Skills Class](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/all-about-dbt-skills-class/): Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a type of therapy that helps people learn skills to manage their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. DBT skills classes are typically held in a group setting, and they are led by trained facilitators. It is a class setting where the focus is on learning new skills and practicing in the moment. Homework is assigned and reviewed!  - [How is Comprehensive DBT different than DBT-Informed care: And When is Comprehensive DBT Needed?](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/comprehensivedbt/): Dr. Marsha Linehan, the developer of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), has a section in her recent memoir titled, “DBT Skills are Life Skills.” She describes, “…in all these skills, the emphasis is on being effective in one’s life, in the social and practical realms.” Dr. Linehan speaks not only from her professional training, but also her personal experience as a teen having spent years in a higher level of care facility for suicidality and severe depression. “Creating a life worth living,” is a very important aspect of Comprehensive DBT. - [Postpartum Mental Health ](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/postpartum/): Postpartum Mental Health  - [Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) 101: What is it and how can it help you?](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/dbt101/): Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) 101: What is it and how can it help you? - [Attachment and Attachment Problems](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/attachment-and-attachment-problems/): Maybe you have heard of a psychologist or doctor who uses the phrase “attachment.” They are not talking about attaching something to another thing, but rather the quality of the relationship between a parent and a child. This is the core foundation for a child’s expectation that the people they depend on will love and support them as well as help them when they need it. It is the innate human drive to survive that we are all born with. Essentially, children need to feel safe and secure in their environments for the majority of time.  - [Trauma-Informed Care versus Trauma Treatment: What’s the Difference & Why Does It Matter?](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/trauma-informed-care-versus-trauma-treatment-whats-the-difference-why-does-it-matter/): Connections Child & Family Center is a trauma-informed organization as well as one whose clinicians are trained in evidence-based modalities treating specific, unresolved trauma responses.  - [Understanding The Toxicity of Perfectionism](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/understanding-the-toxicity-of-perfectionism/): Having worked almost a decade with clients who suffered from eating disorders, severe anxiety and depression as well as trauma, one of the common themes among many was this push for “perfection” across many areas of their lives. This showed up in body image and appearance, school performance, friendships, relationship status, work environment or achievement, athletic progress and goals, obtaining several degrees, promotions, etc. It also manifested in ‘being the best’ at various roles in their lives such as ‘the best wife or father.’ I noticed that if a client was prone to experience perfectionistic beliefs, it impacted almost every area of their life.  - [All About Parent Child Interaction Therapy](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/all-about-parent-child-interaction-therapy/): What is PCIT?Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is a positive, direct, and intensive therapy that helps both parents and children work on their parent-child relationship. What are the stages in PCIT?There are a few stages to Parent-Child Interaction Therapy. The first stage is to gather information about the client’s behaviors and the parent-child relationship. This is done through interviews as well as an observation called DPICS. This is essentially like looking at a lot for where you want to build a house. Then, parents learn about Child-Directed Interaction which provides interventions in order to become great reinforcers of behavior. This is like building the foundation for your new house. You cannot build a house on a rocky foundation! At the end of this period, parents and children do another DPICS to evaluate how well they are able to implement these new skills before moving on to the final stage of PCIT. The last part is where parents learn about Parent-Directed Interaction. This is the stage in which parents continue to use the Child-Directed Interventions while also learning how to appropriately lead their child. This is the part parents are most excited about as it is building the house! At the end, the hope is for a parent and child to build their relationship and the happy/soothing feelings that can go with it.  - [Shame vs. Guilt](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/shame-vs-guilt/): Guilt and Shame can be confusing to many, and yet they influence our mental states and mental health. Understanding the difference between the two can be helpful in changing how we speak to ourselves in our own head (our self-talk). If we are parents, it can also be influential in how we speak to our children. This will then be what they begin hearing inside their own head. So, let’s explore. - [Uses of Psychological Testing: From a Psychologist’s Point of View](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/uses-of-psychological-testing-from-a-psychologists-point-of-view/): Ever think about pursuing psychological testing for yourself or a family member? Recently, our founder Dr. Lauren Pasqua discussed the uses for psychological testing on this podcast from Mosaics of Mercy. Here are some highlights from that discussion, or you can listen to the whole podcast here.  ## Pages - [Careers](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/careers/): Connections Child & Family Center is a clinician-led group practice in Spring, The Woodlands, and Houston. We treat kids, teens, adults, and families, and we run structured specialty programs in DBT, anxiety and OCD, disruptive behaviors, and psychological testing. Right now we are hiring for five specific seats. - [geo kingwood](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/kingwood-tx/): Kingwood is a high-achieving, family-oriented community on the northeast side of Houston. CCFC offers therapy, evaluations, DBT programs, and parent support via telehealth for Kingwood families, and in-person at our Woodlands and Houston offices. - [geo cypress](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/cypress-tx/): Cypress is one of the fastest-growing communities in Greater Houston, and one of the most underserved when it comes to specialty mental health care for children and families. CCFC offers therapy, evaluations, DBT programs, and parent support via telehealth and in-person at our Spring/Klein office, 20 minutes east. - [geo conroe](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/conroe-tx/): Conroe is one of the fastest-growing cities in North Houston, and the gap between family mental health need and local specialty care is real. CCFC offers therapy, evaluations, DBT programs, and parent support via telehealth for Conroe families, and in-person at our Woodlands office, 20 minutes south. - [dbt Video Series](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/dbt-video-series/): The door slams. The eye rolls. The shutdowns that last for days. You love your kid and you can't reach them. This free series teaches you the DBT-based strategies that actually change things at home, from Dr. Lauren Pasqua at Connections Child and Family Center. - [Couples Therapy](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/couples-therapy/): Most couples who come to us aren't in crisis. They're in a pattern they can't break on their own. The argument that starts over dishes and ends up somewhere else entirely. The distance that has slowly become the default. We help couples understand what is actually happening and build something different. - [young adults](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/young-adults/): Good grades. The right college. The degree. The job was supposed to be waiting. The house, the relationship, the life, it was all supposed to follow. For a lot of young adults right now, it isn’t. And the worst part is being told the problem is you. Therapy in Greater Houston and across Texas for young adults carrying more than any generation should have to. - [teen thrive program](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/teen-thrive-program/): Teen Thrive is the comprehensive, adherent Dialectical Behavior Therapy program for adolescents whose emotional struggles are bigger than weekly therapy alone can hold. We're the only program offering the full adherent Linehan-developed model in North Houston. - [resources](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/resources/): Free videos, guides, and email courses from our clinical team. Built for parents, teens, and adults who want practical skills they can use at home, not just information to read and forget. - [make a referral](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/make-a-referral/): We accept referrals from pediatricians, school counselors, therapists, teachers, and hospital discharge teams. For therapy, psychological evaluations, and specialty programs. Children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We respond within 1 business day. - [records request form](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/records-request-form/): You have the right to access your mental health records, or your child's records, from our practice. Texas law requires the request to be in writing. Use the form on this page, and we'll respond within 10 business days. - [group and classes/parent management training group for parents](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/group-and-classes-parent-management-training-group-for-parents/): A virtual group class teaching the research-backed Parent Management Training curriculum to parents of children ages 4 to 12. Same room (virtually) as other parents in the same situation. Real strategies you use that week at home. - [Parents](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/parent-support/): *, *::before, *::after { box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0; padding: 0; } - [Our story](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/our-story/): Connections Child and Family Center started in The Woodlands in 2012 as a solo private practice and grew into what it is today through the work of a team of clinicians who genuinely believe they are better together. - [online therapy](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/online-therapy/): Your child won't leave the house. Or you can't get there. Or you're two hours from any therapist who specializes in what your family actually needs. Either way, the session can still happen. All therapy services are available via telehealth, statewide. - [the woodlands](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/the-woodlands/): Our main office on Sawdust Road is where most of what makes CCFC distinctive actually happens: in-person DBT classes, psychological evaluations, Teen Thrive, and all of our specialty programs. Serving The Woodlands, Spring, Conroe, and North Houston. - [spring klein](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/spring-klein/): Our Spring Cypress Road office serves the Spring, Klein, and Northwest Houston communities with individual therapy for children, teens, adults, couples, and families. Most major insurance accepted. Evaluations and in-person groups are 15 minutes north at our Woodlands office. - [houston](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/houston/): Our Houston office near Buffalo Bayou serves children ages 8 and up, teens, and adults with individual therapy. Located in the Heights corridor, convenient to Montrose, River Oaks, Midtown, and Inner Loop Houston neighborhoods. - [insurance & fees](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/insurance-fees/): We believe finances shouldn’t stand between you and the right care. Here’s what you need to know about coverage, costs, and the options we offer. - [group counseling](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/group-counseling/): Structured classes for teens, adults, and parents who want practical tools, not unstructured group processing. DBT skills, parent management training, SPACE for anxious children, and our annual Teen Coping Skills Summer Camp. - [get started](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/get-started/): The first call is 15 minutes. You tell us what's going on. We ask a few questions. We figure out together whether CCFC is the right fit and who on our team makes the most sense for your family. No commitment, no paperwork, no pressure. - [client feedback form](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/client-feedback-form/): Whether things went well, could have gone better, or you just have something you want to say, this is where to say it. Your response is confidential and reviewed by our team. - [evaluations](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/evaluations/): Someone told you your child might need an evaluation. Maybe it was the school. Maybe it was your pediatrician. Maybe it was years of watching your child struggle with something nobody has been able to name. An evaluation doesn't change your child. It changes how you see them, how the school sees them, and what kind of help is actually available. - [evaluations/adults](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/evaluations-adults/): .therapeutic-grid{display:grid;grid-template-columns:1fr 1fr;gap:3rem;align-items:start} - [specialty programs/disruptive behaviors program](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/specialty-programs-disruptive-behaviors-program/): A structured behavior program for kids and teens whose meltdowns, defiance, or aggression have made daily life feel impossible. Pre and post measures, specific behavioral goals, and the right protocol matched to your child’s age. Plus optional individual therapy for the parent who is carrying it all. - [depression therapy](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/depression/): Sometimes it looks like a child who stopped wanting to do the things they used to love. A teen who is sleeping too much and saying they're fine. An adult who is functioning, technically, but feels nothing. We treat depression across all ages at CCFC, using approaches that match where you actually are. - [DBT Programs Hub](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/dbt-skills-classes-and-programs/): Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills classes for teens, tweens, parents, and adults, plus our comprehensive Teen Thrive Program for adolescents who need a full level of care. Led by clinicians with foundational DBT training. - [child & teens](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/child-teen-therapy/): *, *::before, *::after { box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0; padding: 0; } - [big emotions anger emotional regulation](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/big-emotions-anger-emotional-regulation/): .anger-grid{display:grid;grid-template-columns:1fr 1fr;gap:4rem;align-items:start} - [specialty programs/anxiety ocd program](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/specialty-programs-anxiety-ocd-program/): A structured program for kids and teens with anxiety, OCD, school refusal, or panic. Combined with a parent class that teaches you how to break the cycle of accommodation at home. Because anxiety lives in the family system, not just the child. - [adult & couples](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/adult-couples-families/): The therapy appointment you keep meaning to make for yourself and keep canceling. The marriage that is technically fine. The Sunday night dread that has become so normal you’ve stopped noticing it’s there. Individual therapy, couples counseling, and family therapy in Greater Houston and statewide via telehealth. - [Adhd Behavior Development](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/adhd-behavior-development/): That reframe changes everything. If your child is having a hard time, the question isn't how to make them comply. It's what are they struggling to do that they don't yet have the skills for? Therapy, evaluations, and parent coaching for ADHD, behavior, and developmental challenges in Greater Houston and across Texas. - [trauma loss](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/trauma-loss/): .adult-trauma-grid{display:grid;grid-template-columns:1fr 1fr;gap:4rem;align-items:start} - [anxiety & ocd](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/anxiety-ocd/): .ocd-grid{display:grid;grid-template-columns:1fr 1fr;gap:4rem;align-items:start} - [homepage](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/): The 11pm Googling. The talks that don’t go anywhere. The sense that something deeper is going on. Whether it’s your child, your marriage, or yourself, we help you see things differently. And that’s where the shift starts. - [CCFC Gift Cards](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/gift-card/): Choose a gift that goes beyond the usual. A Connections gift card provides families with access to trusted mental health care, practical tools, and supportive services designed to help children, teens, and parents thrive. - [SMS Messaging Terms and Conditions](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/sms-messaging-terms-and-conditions/): By opting in to receive SMS messages from Connections Child and Family Center, you agree to these Messaging Terms and Conditions. - [Connections Academy](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/connections-academy/): Join us to learn with Connections Academy and take the next step in your professional or parental development. Our diverse range of courses caters to various specialties and interests within the mental health field. Whether you're a seasoned clinician looking to expand your expertise or a parent seeking to better understand and support your child, we have the resources you need. - [Connections Training Programs](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/connections-training-programs/): Are you looking for a position that offers exceptional training in both assessment and intervention within a supportive and vibrant team? Our training program at Connections Child & Family Center is designed to provide a rich, comprehensive experience that prepares early-career therapists and psychologists for independent practice.  - [Contact- Español](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/contact-espanol/): Ofrecemos servicios virtuales para cualquier residente de Texas. Servicios presenciales disponibles en el noroeste de Houston y The Woodlands. - [Coping Skills DBT Summer Camp](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/coping-skills-dbt-summer-camp/): Join our Coping Skills DBT Summer Camps, designed for tweens and teenagers aged 11-18. This camp is about mastering the art of coping with life’s challenges and improving resiliency.  - [Group Counseling Schedule Consultation](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/group-counseling-schedule-consultation/): Complete the form below to explore the next best steps. We look forward to hearing from you! - [Connections CFC Blog](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/ccfc-blog/): Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates, insights, and events from Connections Child & Family Center. - [Find A Clinician](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/find-a-clinician/): Every clinician here is trained, supervised, and part of one team. The person you meet first can bring in the right people as you go, so you are never starting over. Use the filters to narrow by age, concern, insurance, or location. If you would rather talk it through, book a free 15-minute call and our intake team will match you. - [Benefits Checker](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/benefits-checker/):  Use the questions below to find our your nutrition benefits. - [Family Connection Workshop](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/family-connection-workshop/): Learn how to manage big feelings, stress & family conflict without tears and harmful behavior. - [Good Faith Estimate](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/good-faith-estimate/): Good Faith Estimate for Health Care Items and Services - [Request Your Records](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/contact/records-request-form/): Request Your Records Complete and submit the attached records request form. The records custodian will contact you for more information. Loading… - [Notice of Privacy Practices](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/notice-of-privacy-pratices/): Connections Child and Family Center1544 Sawdust Road #290, Spring, TX 77380The Center for Postpartum Family Health and DBT of North Houston (incorporated entities of CCFC) - [Give Us Your Feedback](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/contact/client-feedback-form/): Give Us Your Feedback We would love to hear from you!! We are always looking for feedback from clients. Please fill out the confidential form below to help us improve our services. ## Elements - [Blog: Reviewed by Dr. Pasqua](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/?kadence_element=blog-reviewed-by-dr-pasqua): Reviewed by Lauren Pasqua, PsyD, PMH-C Licensed Psychologist · Executive Director, Connections Child & Family Center · Over 20 years supporting parents, children, and families through life transitions · TX License #36214 · Last reviewed: September 2026 - [Site-wide type fix (CSS)](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/?kadence_element=site-wide-type-fix-css) - [Custom 404 Page](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/?kadence_element=custom-404-page): Oops! The Page You Were Searching for Seems to Have Wandered Off. Let Us Help You Get To The Right Place Find A Clinician Get Started At CCFC Read Our Blog - [Newsletter Signup](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/?kadence_element=newsletter-signup): One email a week from our clinical team. A skill you can use tonight, a parenting reframe, and the articles our clinicians send to families. No sales pitch. Unsubscribe any time. - [Blog Post Template](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/?kadence_element=blog-post-template): By: Connections Child and Family CenterDecember 11, 2023 - [Testing Template](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/?kadence_element=groups-and-classes-2): Autism is everywhere in the news these days, and if your child is missing any milestones or showing delays, you might naturally be wondering if he or she fits the criteria. - [Groups and Classes Template](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/?kadence_element=groups-and-classes): Sign up to get our free DBT Starter Kit and learn more. - [Therapy Coaching Template](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/?kadence_element=therapy-coaching-template): Nutrition counseling is helpful to support your feelings about and relationship with food. Everyone’s journey is unique, and we honor that. Our dietitian will take the time to listen and understand your goals, preferences, and any obstacles you face. We will look to understand what has shaped your relationship with food and exercise. This personalized approach ensures that we create nutrition and movement goals tailored to your life so it’s sustainable. - [Therapist Profile](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/?kadence_element=therapist-profile): Supervised By: No Content - [Menu: Services](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/?kadence_element=menu-services-2): Areas of Focus Teen Thrive Program DBT Treatment Hub Groups & Classes Anxiety Therapy Counseling for Women Depression Treatment Trauma Treatment ADHD Therapy Therapies We Offer Adult Therapy Teen Therapy Play Therapy Couples Counseling Child Counseling Parent Coaching Family Counseling DBT Treatment for Adults How We Can Help Online Therapy In-Person Therapy Pre-Adoption Assessments Educational Testing Adult Diagnoses Child Diagnoses Get in Touch ## Groups and Classes - [Tween & Parent DBT Skills Classes](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/group-and-classes/tween-parent-dbt-skills-classes/): Is your child or teen struggling with intense emotions? - [Parents Online DBT Skills Group](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/group-and-classes/family-dbt-skills/): DBT skills group offers proven skills to help manage emotions, improve relationships, and build strong family connections. - [Teen DBT Skills Class](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/group-and-classes/teen-dbt-skills-class/): Is your teen struggling with intense emotions? - [SPACE Parenting Group](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/group-and-classes/space-parenting-group/) - [Parent Management Training: Skills for Parents of Defiant Children](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/group-and-classes/parent-management-training-group-for-parents/) - [Peers- A Social Skills Group](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/group-and-classes/peers-group/) - [Peers- A Social Skills Group](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/group-and-classes/peers-social-skills-group/) - [Tween Talk Therapy Group](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/group-and-classes/tween-talk/) - [Women Owning Wellness Group](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/group-and-classes/women-owning-wellness-group/) - [Teen Talk Therapy Group](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/group-and-classes/teen-talk-group/) - [Parenting Group](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/group-and-classes/parenting-group/) - [Healing Hearts: A Grief & Loss Group for Children](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/group-and-classes/grief-loss-group-children/) - [Divorce Support Group for Women](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/group-and-classes/divorce-support-group-women/) - [Digital Detox for Families](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/group-and-classes/digital-detox-group/) - [Play Skills Group](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/group-and-classes/play-skills-group/) - [Social Anxiety Group](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/group-and-classes/social-anxiety-group/) - [Friendship Skills Group](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/group-and-classes/friendship-skills-group/) - [Adult DBT Skills Class](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/group-and-classes/adult-dbt-skills-class/) ## Services - [DBT Treatment for Adults](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/dbt-treatment-for-adults/): Our DBT Treatment for Adults offers a comprehensive set of skills and strategies to address and overcome their emotional and behavioral challenges. - [Parenting Preparation](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/parenting-preparation/): If you are interested in Parent Coaching, we encourage you to reach out to our team of trained therapists today. - [Nutrition Counseling and Wellness](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/nutrition-counseling-and-wellness/): Nutrition counseling is helpful to support your feelings about and relationship with food. Everyone’s journey is unique, and we honor that. Our dietitian will take the time to listen and understand your goals, preferences, and any obstacles you face. We will look to understand what has shaped your relationship with food and exercise. This personalized approach ensures that we create nutrition and movement goals tailored to your life so it’s sustainable. - [Feeding Therapy](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/feeding-therapy/): First and foremost, we know that feeding problems are hard on parents and families. Food is a huge part of many cultures including social gatherings, celebrations, holidays, and family bonding. - [Clinical Hypnosis](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/clinical-hypnosis/): The connection between the mind and the body is powerful and can both positively or negatively influence the body and one’s health; either mental or physical. - [DBT Adolescent Program](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/dbt-adolescent-program/): Are you a parent to an emotionally sensitive teen?Do you often notice your teen expressing extreme emotions (guilt, confusion, anger, for instance?)Are you “’walking on eggshells” to avoid conflicts at home?Does your teen seem out of control, impulsive, or destructive?Do you worry about your teen’s eating or drinking?Has your teen intentionally hurt themselves or have they talked about dying or suicide? - [Family Counseling](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/family-counseling/): In family counseling, we focus on supporting the family as a whole. No one person is identified as the “problem” that needs to be fixed. Each family member impacts the others, leading to a unique family dynamic.  - [Parent Coaching](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/parent-coaching/): If you are interested in Parent Coaching, we encourage you to reach out to our team of trained therapists today. - [Marriage Counseling](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/marriage-counseling/): If you wish you could feel close and connected to your partner again, then marriage counseling can help. It is tough for couples to change negative patterns of relating on their own. Our experienced couple’s counselors help couples or spouses stop their negative cycles of blame and helps them learn new ways to communicate.  - [Online Therapy for Kids](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/childs-therapy-online/): Some kids may already be familiar with the struggles of anxiety and depression. Add on a pandemic it is now more important than ever to assist your kids through these difficult situations. Online therapy is a great way to work through their issues and learn to problem solve. - [Loss & Trauma Therapy](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/loss-trauma-therapy/): Children and teens process loss and trauma in ways that can be markedly different from adults, often influenced by their developmental stage and understanding of the world. Younger children may struggle to grasp the permanence of loss and might express their feelings through changes in play, behavior, or regression to earlier developmental stages. Teenagers, navigating the complexities of adolescence, might respond with a range of emotions from withdrawal to anger or risk-taking behaviors. Both age groups may experience confusion, fear, and a sense of insecurity. Recognizing and supporting their unique ways of coping is essential for helping them heal and develop resilience in the face of adversity. - [Child & Teen Depression](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/child-teen-depression/): Depression in children and teens is a serious but often overlooked mental health issue. Unlike adults, young people with depression might not always appear sad or withdrawn; their depression can manifest in irritability, changes in eating and sleeping habits, or a loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed. Understanding depression in this age group is crucial, as it can significantly impact their development, academic performance, and social interactions. Early identification and intervention are key to providing effective support and helping them navigate these challenging emotional experiences. - [Child & Teen Behaviors](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/child-teen-behaviors/): Child and teen behavior issues often reflect deeper emotional or developmental challenges, as young people navigate complex physical, emotional, and social changes. These behaviors, from acting out to withdrawal, serve as key indicators of their internal struggles and unexpressed needs. Understanding these behaviors requires a nuanced approach that considers biological, psychological, and environmental factors, and emphasizes empathy, open communication, and professional guidance to effectively support their journey towards healthy development. - [Anxiety Therapy for Children & Teens](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/anxiety-therapy-children-teens/): If you are interested in Anxiety Therapy for children & teens, we encourage you to reach out to our team of trained therapists today. - [Autism Treatment](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/autism-treatment/): Floortime is an autism treatment model based on the DIR® theory. It is a therapy that can be done by parents and professionals. It is a play based, child-led, and relationship focused. Floortime helps children master social and emotional skills. The goal of the DIR®/Floortime™ Model is to build social, emotional, and intellectual skills. It does this all together instead of focusing on separate skills or behaviors. The therapy is called Floortime because the parent gets down on the floor with the child to play at his level. We are trained to assess your child’s development, individual differences, and relationships. We will help you create a plan to help with each of those areas. We offer coaching for parents in learning  Floortime. - [ADHD Therapy](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/adhd-therapy/): Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. It is typically identified in childhood and often lasts into adulthood. People with ADHD may have trouble managing time, being organized, setting goals, and holding down a job. They may also have issues with relationships, self-esteem, and addiction. - [Spirited Kids](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/spirited-kids/): If you are interested in support with parenting spirited kids, we encourage you to reach out to our team of trained therapists today. - [Early Childhood](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/early-childhood/): If you are interested in early childhood support, we encourage you to reach out to our team of trained therapists today. - [Play Therapy](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/play-therapy/): Play therapy is a type of treatment which uses play to guide change, encourage growth, and help children overcome their own difficulties. We use the natural language of children, play, to meet treatment goals. - [Pregnancy & Postpartum Depression Counseling](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/maternal-mental-health/): Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed after having a baby? Is motherhood different than you imagined? - [Counseling for Women](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/counseling-women/): As women and therapists, we understand the unique issues that women face across adulthood. We have experienced many similar challenges, be it infertility, divorce, motherhood, special needs children, careers, illness, aging, or relationship struggles. - [Trauma Focused Counseling](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/trauma-focused-counseling/):  Trauma consists of the events, experiences, and effects that create overwhelm in the body and emotions. Trauma therapy is a type of mental health treatment that can help people who have experienced traumatic events. Traumatic events can include things (like car accidents, natural disasters, sexual assault, and combat), experiences (such as abuse, emotional or physical neglect, and relationship losses), and effects (difficulty trusting others, poor self-worth, and challenges connecting to others). Trauma can have a profound impact on a person’s life, leading to symptoms such as anxiety, depression, flashbacks, nightmares, and relationship instability. Trauma therapy can help people who have experienced trauma to cope with their symptoms, reduce their distress, and improve their quality of life. - [Depression Treatment](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/depression-therapy/): As we develop a relationship we make every effort to see the whole you and challenge negative views you have of yourself. We openly ask for and accept all of your emotional experiences. It is our desire to offer a safe space for you to freely be yourself. - [Anxiety Therapy](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/service/anxiety-therapy/): Do you toss and turn at night, repeatedly reviewing your to-do list in your mind and panicking over the thought of never getting it all done? Overcome by dread, you can feel the waves of panic flood through you. ## Testing - [Pre-Adoption Assessments](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/testing/pre-adoption-assessments/) - [Testing for Learning Disabilities](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/testing/testing-for-learning-disabilities/) - [Psychological Testing](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/testing/psychological-evaluations/) - [Kindergarten Readiness Testing](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/testing/kindergarten-readiness-testing/) - [Gifted Testing](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/testing/gifted-testing/) - [Evaluations for Test Accommodations](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/testing/evaluations-for-test-accommodations/) - [Dyslexia Testing](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/testing/dyslexia-testing/) - [Dysgraphia Testing](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/testing/dysgraphia-testing/) - [Autism Evaluations](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/testing/autism-evaluations/) - [Adult Autism Testing](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/testing/adult-autism-testing/) - [Adult ADHD Testing](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/testing/adult-adhd-testing/) - [ADHD Evaluations](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/testing/adhd-evaluations/) ## Therapists - [Samantha Heinly, LCSW-S, PMH-C](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/therapist/samantha-heinly/) - [Kate Kirages-Gordon, LCSW-S](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/therapist/kate-kirages-gordon/) - [Hannah Smith](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/therapist/hannah-smith/) - [Johnthan Rivero, LPC](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/therapist/johnthan-rivero/) - [Melissa Winkelmann](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/therapist/melissa-winkelmann/) - [Amanda Kasowski, MA, LPA-IP](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/therapist/amanda-kasowski/) - [Shauna Miller, LPC](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/therapist/shauna-miller/) - [Jerome Javellana, LPC](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/therapist/jerome-javellana/) - [Marie Handkins, LMSW](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/therapist/marie-handkins-lmsw/) - [Brianne Morales, LMFT](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/therapist/brianne-morales/) - [Hannah McDonald, LMFT](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/therapist/hannah-mcdonald/) - [Kamaya Bogar, LMFT](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/therapist/kamaya-bogar/) - [Elisa Squier, LMFT](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/therapist/elisa-squier/) - [Nicole Thompson, LMFT, LPC](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/therapist/nicole-thompson-lmft-lpc/) - [Kelly Myer, LCSW](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/therapist/kelly-myer/) - [Katie Rial, PhD](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/therapist/katie-rial/) - [Meredith Wiese, Ph.D, LSSP](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/therapist/meredith-wiese/) - [Lauren Pasqua, PsyD, PMH-C](https://connectionsfamilycenter.com/therapist/lauren-pasqua/): I have wanted to be a psychologist since reading a book for teen girls during a turbulent year of middle school. Lending a sympathetic ear came naturally to me even in childhood. Hearing the struggles of my friends only increased my interest in people and relationships. As a natural peacemaker, I could often be found scolding my parents for arguing.