Mallory Simmons, LCPC

she/her

CLINICAL counselor, level 3

Director of Internships

New Client Coordinator Team Lead

Serving Maryland Clients ages 0 - 6 and their families

I am a licensed clinical professional counselor based in Maryland, working towards certification as a registered play therapist, under the supervision of Laura Morlok, LCPC, LPC, RPT-S.

For over a decade, I’ve been actively involved in the mental health field. My experiences have included working with youth who experience long-term mental health and developmental challenges in a respite setting as well as supporting youth in crisis in a partial hospitalization program. It was these experiences that taught me that connecting with a child through play is an essential aspect of supporting a child and their family.

My favorite job, prior to working in the mental health field, was as a lifeguard/swim instructor. The best part of that job was teaching swim lessons along with the weekly donut celebration we had with all the sweet kiddos and their families.

What does my experience mean for you as my client?

I know that your child is more than their “problems” and “symptoms”.

Yes, your neurodivergent child’s behaviors might be louder, bigger and more confusing than those of their neurotypical peers. And yes, they absolutely require you to take at least double the amount of deep breathes each day to manage your own stress levels.

And alongside that, I know your child needs to be understood, accepted and loved for who they are as a whole person.

My experiences have provided me with a deep understanding of the impact developmental and mental health diagnoses can have on families, so I know how important it is that we connect as a team to get you and your child the support you all deserve.

Drawn portrait of a smiling, feminine presenting white woman with long wavy medium brown hair and brown eyes, wearing a maroon shirt. — *Portrait by* *Nathan McConnell*
When not practicing therapy, I am running around with two sweet, rambunctious boys. On weekends you can find me at one of their many sporting events or building their gigantic Lego sets.
I love to swim and take any chance I can get to be near the water.

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Frequently Asked Questions…

What is your favorite color?
- It’s ever-changing but I’m currently in a turquoise phase!
How are you at singing show tunes?
- I am an expert at singing show tunes in a terrible, completely off key voice.
- My all time favorite Broadway play is Hamilton (Ok, so I haven’t *actually* seen it on Broadway yet)! I will be glad to sing/rap a few verses for you though you may regret opening that Pandora's box…
Do you have a favorite book?
- My current book obsession is anything by Erik Larson.

Why did you decide to be a therapist?
- I first got the idea to become a therapist when I saw a counselor at my high school support a friend of mine in a way that helped him navigate through an extremely tough time in his life. The power of having just one person believe in him and support him during his time of need was life changing and had lasting consequences.
- This event planted a seed in my mind that has led to my current career as an aspiring play therapist.