Linda Shekerdemian, M.Ed.

Linda Shekerdemian, M.Ed., L.P.C.

Counseling, Play Therapy, Child & Family Therapy, School Consultation

15 NW Park Place, #130 Bend, OR. 97701	Office: 541.815-9675 Email: playtherapyinbend@yahoo.com

Hourly Rate: $100.00 Sliding Scale: yes, on an individual basis Accept Insurance: most Medicaid: No Handicap Accessible: yes	Internet: Association for Play Therapy: www.a4pt.org
Practice Description: I believe that every individual possesses an inner wisdom that can support and guide their potential for healing and growth. Based on this belief I employ a client-centered, eclectic approach with a strong reliance on expressive therapies including, play, sandtray, art, writing, etc. The use of therapeutic books is also a component of my approach. When working with children I make every attempt to involve parents in their child's therapeutic process. I work systemically whenever possible. I believe strongly in the healing power of play and expressive therapies. Play Therapy offers children a safe, natural method of growth, healing and an outlet for emotions. According to the Association for Play Therapy, research supports the effectiveness of Play Therapy with children experiencing a wide variety of social, emotional, behavioral and learning problems. These include post-traumatic stress, conduct disorder, aggression, anxiety/fearfulness, depression, ADHD, impulsivity, low self-esteem, reading difficulties and social withdrawal. Play Therapy is helpful to all ages and is an especially important intervention for counseling children. Helping with problems related to divorce, changes in the family, grief and loss, relocation, hospitalization, chronic illness, physical/sexual abuse, domestic violence and natural disasters. During the Play Therapy process treatment goals are addressed and strategies for solving problems are explored.

Education:	Experience:
I received my Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of British Columbia in 1991. During my degree I had the opportunity to train as a play therapist with Dr. John Allan, a renowned Jungian Psychologist who was on faculty at the time. B.A. in Psychology, U.B.C., 1985. Early Childhood Education Courses, U.B.C., 1987.	For 12 years, prior to immigrating to Oregon, in 2004, from Vancouver, Canada, I practiced counseling and play therapy at a non-profit treatment center for children with emotional and behavioral challenges and their families. I also had a busy private practice. I have had extensive experience working with children with a broad range of issues. As well as consulting with parents, teachers and foster parents. I have participated in ongoing continuing education throughout my career, including EMDR and Filial Therapy, and will continue to do so. From 1995 until 2003, I was a Registered Clinical Counselor in British Columbia and a Registered Play Therapist. I was a founding member of the B.C. Association for Play Therapy. I have worked with children and families for almost 20 years.

Area of Practice:	Specialization:
Anger/Aggression Anxiety/Fears Attention Deficit Disorder Childhood Issues Grief and Loss Depression Personal Growth Sexuality, Sexual Abuse & Sexual Disorders Trauma Abuse Issues Learning Problems Self-Esteem Issues	Play Therapy Child and Family Counseling Sandtray

Populations Served:
Children age 2 to 13, Individuals, families.

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