Alissa Berger

Too often, therapy for kids treats the child as the “problem” to be fixed in isolation — separate from the family relationships and dynamics that shape their daily life. I’m working to change that. My goal is for the trust a child builds in the therapy room to extend outward, helping create a more secure, connected home life where the whole family feels equipped to face challenges together.

I provide relational, family-oriented therapy for children, adolescents, and the families who support them — including parents finding their voice, families navigating attachment challenges, or caregivers simply looking to feel more connected to their kids. My work is grounded in the belief that a child’s wellbeing is inseparable from the relationships around them. Rather than treating a child in isolation, I aim to support the whole family system and empower parents to be their child’s agent of change.

My Approach

When I work with kids, my first priority is getting on their level to build trust. Kids know when an adult is genuinely curious about their world, and that’s where the relationship begins. Through play, connection, and steady, attuned presence, I help children experience what it feels like to have a secure, supportive adult in their corner — and use that relationship as a bridge to build trust in the relationships that matter most, especially with parents and caregivers.

I also work directly with parents and caregivers, offering co-parenting support and parent coaching to strengthen consistency, communication, and connection across the household. Lasting change happens when the adults around a child feel supported too.

Training and Orientation

I hold a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from Alliant International University (CSPP) and have advanced training in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), child-centered play therapy, and trauma-informed care, including experience supporting families through a family trauma treatment center. I draw from Attachment Theory and integrate third-wave approaches like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help kids and parents build skills for emotional regulation, communication, and resilience — strengthening their bonds even under stress. I also bring specialized training in psychological assessment, including evaluations for ADHD, learning differences, and social-emotional functioning, which can add depth and clarity to treatment planning when needed.

Affirming, Accessible Care

My practice is neurodiversity-affirming and LGBTQIA+ affirming. I meet kids, teens, and families where they’re at, with an approach that honors each person’s identity and way of experiencing the world. While I believe therapy is most effective in person — where connection, play, and co-regulation happen most naturally — I’m glad to offer virtual sessions as a secondary option for families who need that flexibility.

Areas of Focus:
Child and Family Therapy | Parent-Child Attachment | Co-Parent/Parent Coaching | ADHD and Neurodivergent Support | Youth LGBTQIA+ Affirming Care | Psychological Assessment

If you’re ready to get started, I offer a complimentary 15-minute consultation to see if we’re a good fit. I’d love to help your family build the trust and connection you’re looking for.