I am Erica Simmons, MA, LPC, RPT.  As a trauma-focused clinician, I work with individuals and families of all ages to address symptoms associated with PTSD and complex trauma using an integrated treatment approach. I am trained in and use research-based methods such as EMDR, play therapy, sand tray, expressive arts, attachment-based, child-centered, and neurodevelopmental models.

 

I approach therapy with a warm and empathetic spirit and believe that you have the strength and wisdom within you to heal and grow. It is my job to guide treatment, encourage you in your efforts, and provide feedback and different insights into your concerns. I value the work I do and am deeply invested in you getting as much out of therapy as possible. Coming to therapy is brave work and I am here to help you feel at ease and enjoy the process!

 

I have lived in Arizona most of my life and may be one of the few here who truly enjoys our sunny and hot weather. I enjoy boating, hiking, and off-roading. I’m also a student at heart and have always enjoyed learning. After obtaining my undergraduate degree (Bachelor of Science in Marketing) from University of Arizona, I felt compelled to learn more and decided to pursue counseling as a career. I received my Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling in 2012 from Argosy University. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) since 2017 and am also a Registered Play Therapist (RPT).

 

I have over 10 years of experience providing individual and family therapy for children and adolescents (ages 0-18) and their families. I have worked in outpatient, community-based mental health programs in addition to advocacy centers with primary focus on treating children who experienced neglect, physical and/or sexual abuse. I also work with adults recovering from childhood attachment traumas. I am aware of how symptoms of trauma/PTSD/CPTSD, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, behavioral issues, attachment and relational issues manifest in children and adults and how overwhelming this can be for the individual and their family; it is my goal to help my clients address unhealed life events so that they can live the lives they want to lead.

 

I offer individual and family counseling for children, adolescents and adults. Each person will have their own unique treatment plan. I use an integrative approach in session- using play, sand tray, art/creative, story/narrative, cognitive behavioral therapies, sensory integration, and EMDR.

 

Because I know that working with families can be complicated at times and family relationships can get messy, it's really important to me to be upfront with the parents of the children I work with regarding my work with them. I aim to help my clients achieve their goals and reach new levels of growth and healing. However, I do not write letters to the court or for attorneys. I also do not make recommendations for visitation or custody arrangements. The signatures of both parents are required for children to participate in therapy.