PERSONAL STATEMENT
Parents, do you feel like you are doing everything you can, and still feel like you’re falling short? Does your child have big emotions, frequent meltdowns, anxiety, shutdowns, or behaviors that leave you feeling confused, exhausted, and worried about what’s really going on underneath it all? You might have tried strategies, charts, consequences, or “being consistent,” yet nothing seems to stick. If you’ve ever found yourself thinking “Why is this so hard?” or “Am I missing something?”—you are not alone; and you are exactly who I love to work with!
I am a child and family therapist who specializes in supporting children, teens, and parents navigating emotional regulation challenges, anxiety, neurodiversity, family stress, and behavioral concerns. I believe that behavior always makes sense in context, and my work focuses on understanding the causes behind what you’re seeing—rather than just trying to fix or eliminate it. I use developmentally appropriate, relationship-based approaches that help children feel safe, understood, and capable; while also equipping parents with practical tools they can use at home.
My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based practices, including parent training, emotion regulation work, and trauma-informed care. I work closely with parents because meaningful change doesn’t happen in isolation, it happens when the whole system feels supported. Whether your child is struggling with anxiety, big feelings, transitions, sensory needs, or family dynamics, my goal is to help your family move from survival mode to a place of greater connection, confidence, and calm.
If this resonates with you, I invite you to learn more about me and my approach. If it feels like a good fit, I’d love to support you and your family. Feel free to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward feeling steadier and more supported.
SPECIALTY AREAS
Ms. Ricardo has expertise in several areas including (but not limited to):
• Emotional & Behavioral Dysregulation
• Stress & Anxiety (general, social, academic, sports)
• Feeding & Eating Disorders
• Neurodiversity
• Parent Coaching
• Parenting Burnout & Guilt
EDUCATION
M.S. Social Work, University of Texas at Arlington
B.A. Social Work, University of Oklahoma
LICENSE & CERTIFICATION
Texas Licensed Clinical Social Worker