MJ Pearson, MSW, LICSW

Independent Contractor

Therapy for children

Hi, I’m MJ Pearson.

I’m a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and Registered Play Therapist (RPT) who works primarily with children ages 10 and under, along with their parents. My focus is on helping kids process their emotions, build confidence, and develop resilience—while also supporting parents in strengthening their connection with their child.

I specialize in Play Therapy (both non-directive and directive), Integrative Attachment Family Therapy, and Theraplay. My approach blends warmth and playfulness with a clear, intentional plan so families can see meaningful progress.

My Goal in Therapy

I want my clients—children and parents alike—to feel heard, valued, and supported. When people feel safe and seen, they can grow, reach their potential, and find harmony within themselves and in their relationships.

With children, I use a strengths-based, attachment-focused approach to help them better understand their emotions and responses to stress. With parents, I provide practical tools, direct feedback, and ongoing encouragement so they can parent with confidence and enjoy their relationship with their child.

My Journey to Becoming a Therapist

I’ve always loved seeing the world through a child’s eyes. Over time, I realized my “superpower” was listening to what kids were really trying to say—through their words, their play, and their behavior. Helping parents develop that same skill has become one of the most rewarding parts of my work.

As a Registered Play Therapist, I believe therapy should be engaging and fun—but also purposeful. Our work together will involve assessing your family’s needs, setting targeted goals, and using play as a bridge to build skills, resilience, and connection.

Helping Kids and Parents Thrive

I find deep fulfillment when a child gains mastery over their challenges and builds the resilience to face future stressors—freeing them up to simply be a kid again. I also love seeing parents become more confident, relaxed, and able to truly enjoy their child.

I’m known for my ability to connect quickly, see the best in people, and instill hope that things can improve.

How Sessions Work

Therapy is collaborative and tailored to your family. We will have separate parent sessions to discuss challenges openly, individual play sessions to build rapport with your child, and parent–child sessions where much of the transformation happens.

Sessions focus on:

The parent–child dynamic
Communication patterns
Self-esteem and strengths
Emotional regulation and coping skills
Understanding individual differences

I’ll share tools, check in on what’s working, and adjust as needed to keep progress moving forward.

As a Therapist,
I Embrace the Following Philosophies

My Professional Background

Education

B.A. in Social Work & Sociology – Gordon College
M.S.W. in Multicultural Clinical Social Work – Augsburg University

Licensure & Credentials

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)
Registered Play Therapist (RPT)

Experience

10+ years providing psychotherapy to children, parents, and families

Additional Training & Certifications

Neuro-relational Child Centered Play Therapy
Integrative Attachment Family Therapy
Theraplay
Sensory Motor Arousal Regulation Treatment
TraumaPlay
Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy
Circle of Security Parenting
Clinical Supervision (MN Board of Social Work, Board of Behavioral Health)

Adoption Competency Certificate for Mental Health Professionals – University of Maryland

Let's Discover How I Can Help

Start living in the moment and enjoying your life.