
Get to Know Me

Jennifer "Jenny" Ralsten
Therapist & Owner
REGISTERED PLAY THERAPIST SUPERVISOR
Education:
Master's in Forensic Psychology
Master's in Social Work
Specialized Training & Certification:
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International OCD Foundation's
Behavioral Therapy Training Institute
General Graduate (2020)
Pediatric Graduate (2022)
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Yale Child Study Center's
SPACE Training (Supporting Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) -
Tourette ​Association of America's Behavioral Therapy Institute for Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT)
Treatment Focuses:
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Anxiety Disorders & OCD
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Depression & Mood Disorders
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Trauma & PTSD
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ADHD & Neurodiversity
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Licensed in Virginia, Maryland & Florida
Therapy is meant for when you realize you are no longer where you were, not yet where you want to be, but ready to get on your way.
As a therapist, I focus on building a sincere relationship, where within that space you can safety explore your fears, sorrows, anger, and aspirations. I will support you in the process of discovering your authentic self, cultivating resilience to life’s stressors, and reconnecting to a sense of purpose as you move forward.
My approach to therapy is holistic and evidence-based. I merge Western science with Eastern wisdom in the treatment of a wide variety of emotional, behavioral, and relationship concerns. My compassionate, yet direct style, is rooted in my unique background. For over 15 years I have developed a broad perspective through my work at non-profits, medical, social services, and Federal government agencies. As a therapist, I deepened my belief of unconditional acceptance through placements spanning correctional institutions, acute hospitals, residential facilities, community-based, in-home, and outpatient settings.
As I see it, therapy is as much an art, as it is a science. I have extensive training in trauma services, art/play therapy, DBT, and CBT approaches - particularly using Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for treatment of OCD and anxiety disorders - while also incorporating a neuroscience foundation and the intuitive design of mindfulness, spirituality, attachment, and cultural diversity.
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It's a true mind + body + soul approach.
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One of the most significant predictors of success in therapy is the client-therapist relationship. At your first session, your comfort is my priority. It can be a daunting task to feel you are entering unfamiliar territory, only to be pressured to divulge your darkest thoughts and deepest feelings. Instead, I see our first meeting as where you interview me! You get to decide if we are a good fit for one another.
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During our sessions, you can expect me to ask engaging questions, offer feedback to help you identify the things that are limiting your success, remind you of your strengths, empower you to try new things, teach concrete and effective tools, and hold you accountable to take the steps towards your self-directed goals.
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Each therapeutic path is unique and develops organically as we foster your clarity and confidence in the process.
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You have my commitment to accompany you on this journey.

