Emily Thompson, LLMSW

Adolescents I Trauma I Swartz Creek & Telehealth

“I believe that children are innately born with good hearts and view the world in a positive way. I recognize, however, that this world can be very hard and heavy to navigate.”


  • My passion for children, teens, and young adults is something I’ve leaned into my entire career, which has provided me with years of experience working with these populations.

    If you are a parent seeking help for your child, I want you to know that you are doing an amazing thing! Childhood is the foundation that precedes the rest of our lives. What we learn then determines the now. Taking this step to help your child develop the skills necessary to cope with life’s stressors, identify and appropriately express their emotions, and develop self-worth and resiliency will undoubtedly change their paths moving forward (and it might just make your life easier, too!).

    If you are a teen or young adult seeking help for yourself, I am so glad you’re here! Please know this is a safe space where you will feel heard without judgment and seen for who you are. Maybe life hasn’t afforded you with that opportunity before. Maybe you’ve grown up in an abusive or toxic environment, which has led to feelings of depression or overwhelming anxiety. Maybe you’re just not sure what your purpose is anymore. Whatever it is that you’re struggling with today, know that you are worthy of healing. And that is exactly what we will do together. I am so proud of you for taking this first step!

  • I believe that children are innately born with good hearts and view the world in a positive way. I recognize, however, that this world can be very hard and heavy to navigate. Sometimes, we’re forced to experience things both internally and externally that create confusion, pain, and dysregulation at an early age. These emotions often manifest in our behaviors and interpersonal relationships, creating further concern. The unfortunate part is that we aren’t always in control of what happens to us and to our children. The fortunate part - the part that can provide us with hope- is that we ARE in control of how we respond to and cope with these things. That is where our power is. And I imagine, that is why you’re here.

    The most important part of therapy lies within our relationship. I understand this process can be uncomfortable as it asks us to be vulnerable in ways we have not been before. I aim to first create a space and a therapeutic relationship that fosters healing through trust, transparency, and commitment. I then use a variety of approaches during sessions ranging from traditional talk therapy to forms of expressive therapy such as art, play, and writing. I pride myself in taking a trauma informed approach that utilizes TF-CBT and mindfulness practices that facilitate processing and healing at an age-appropriate level.

  • I have worked as a clinical social worker since 2015, beginning my journey as a direct care worker with foster care youth. It was here that I discovered my passion for helping children and teens cope with and overcome trauma. I transitioned into a case management role where I remained until I earned my MSW from Michigan State University in 2020. I have been a children’s therapist ever since. The work I have done has extended beyond the four walls of my office, as I find value in diving into the trenches with my clients and sitting alongside of them during some of their darkest and most challenging times.

    Additionally, I am trained in therapeutic crisis intervention and mental health first aid to assist with more immediate and urgent needs.