Crystal Barrera, MSW, LICSW

About Me

I’m a child therapist, and I’m also a parent. I know firsthand how hard it is when your child is struggling. Whether your child is having big meltdowns, constant worries, trouble focusing, or just seems quieter than usual, it can affect the whole family. You don’t have to figure it out alone.

Since 2011, I’ve been helping children ages 3 to 12 work through challenges like anxiety, anger, trauma, grief, family changes, and difficulties with strong emotions. I also support kids with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and learning or developmental differences. My goal is always the same: to create a safe, supportive space where your child feels understood and can build the skills they need to thrive.

I also love partnering with parents. You know your kid better than anyone, and I deeply value the insight you bring to the therapy room. When we can combine your love and insight with my clinical knowledge and experience, we can create a holistic plan to support your child.

Who I Work With

I work with children ages to 3 to 12. I see kids who are younger or older on a case-by-case basis.

I work with children who have a wide range of problems, including:

  • ADHD and Autism
  • Anger Management
  • Anxiety
  • Behavioral Issues
  • Depression
  • Developmental Disorders or Intellectual Disability
  • Dissociative Disorders
  • Divorce
  • Grief
  • Impulse Control
  • Oppositional Defiance
  • Peer Relationships
  • School Issues
  • Self Esteem
  • Self-Harming
  • Sexual, Physical, or Other Kinds of Abuse
  • Stress
  • Suicidal Ideation
  • Trauma and PTSD

Education

I completed my Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work at the University of St. Thomas/St. Catherine University, with a focus on trauma, integrative psychotherapy, and children.

Since grad school, I’ve continued my studies through formal continuing education and personal study. I’m especially interested in PTSD/Trauma and Dissociation/Dissociative Disorders.

I am also a Professional Member of the Association of Play Therapy. I use primarily Child-Centered Play Therapy, but also incorporate techniques from Somatic Experiential Play Therapy and Synergetic Play Therapy. 

When I’m Not at Work

I enjoy spending time with my own children, reading, hiking with my dogs, and doing crafts like cross-stitch and crochet. I also have a mild obsession with Bluey, and know entirely too much about a fictional cartoon dog.