Child therapists that meet you where you are
Each Early Childhood Specialist on our team was specifically chosen to partner with us. They are highly specialized and experienced in supporting the development of children from birth to 8 years old. Each member contributes a wealth of knowledge acquired from roles that deeply engage with the concept of nurturing the whole child. They possess adeptness in navigating special education and community resources, ensuring comprehensive support whenever necessary.
Jenni Showalter LCSW, RPT-S Owner and Practice Director
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If you're here, chances are you're concerned about your child and wondering if therapy might help. Let me assure you that this is the best decision you can make for your family and I'm honored you chose us.
As the owner and director of Early Childhood Partners In Practice, I am dedicated to supporting and celebrating the development of your child in their early years.When I see families struggling—whether it's with challenging behaviors, developmental delays or difficulties or navigating the complex world of early childhood support systems —I understand how isolating and overwhelming it can be. But you don't have to figure this out alone—I'm here to help. When you choose to work with me, you're not just getting a therapist—you're gaining a partner in your child's development and your family's wellbeing.
After spending more than a decade working in early childhood programs, in schools and community mental health settings in Northern Virginia, I've learned how important it is to have a collaborative and holistic approach to child care. My experience and unique knowledge of early childhood support systems allow me to guide you through resources and connect you with additional support when needed.
As a Registered Play Therapist - Supervisor with specialized training in cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, and trauma-focused treatments, I work with your family as a whole because I know that when parents feel confident and supported, children thrive. Your child's early years are incredibly important, and the support you provide them now can make a lasting difference. If you're feeling uncertain about whether therapy is right for your family, I'd love to talk with you. Sometimes a simple conversation can help clarify whether we're a good fit and how I might be able to support your family's unique needs.
Contact me today to schedule a consultation. Together, we can create a path forward that honors your child's individual needs and supports your entire family's growth and healing.
Jenni accepts: Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield.
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BA in Psychology - George Mason University
Minor in Conflict Resolution and Women's Studies
MSW - George Mason University
Sarah Michaels LCSW, IMH-E® Infant Mental Health
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If you're watching your young child struggle with big emotions, challenging behaviors, or difficulty connecting with others, I understand how helpless and worried you might feel as a parent. Maybe you're wondering if their tantrums are "normal," feeling overwhelmed by their emotional outbursts, or questioning whether you're responding in the right way.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Infant Mental Health Specialist with over seven years of experience in early intervention, I want you to know that your instincts to seek support show just how much you love your child. What fulfills me most in my work is watching parents like you discover that you already have incredible strengths—you just need the right tools and understanding to feel confident in supporting your child's emotional world.
My approach is built on a simple but powerful truth: the relationship between you and your child is the most important factor in their healing and growth. Rather than focusing solely on your child's behavior, I work with you to understand what's driving those behaviors and help you respond in ways that strengthen your connection while supporting their development.
Using trauma-informed and relationship-focused methods, including my training as a Circle of Security Parenting Facilitator, I'll help you decode your child's emotional needs and give you concrete strategies that work within your daily routines. Whether your child is struggling with regulation, social connections, or behavioral challenges, we'll work together to build on the bond you already share while creating lasting change.
Your child's early years are when their emotional foundation is being built, and the support you provide now shapes their future relationships and resilience. You don't have to figure this out alone or wonder if you're doing enough. Contact me today to start building the strong, connected relationship you both deserve.
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BSW - Longwood University
MSW - George Mason University
Shannon Rushing PT, DPT Physical Therapy
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If you're watching your child struggle with movement—whether they're having trouble keeping up with peers, seem to tire easily, or are facing challenges with balance, strength, or coordination—I want you to know that I see the whole picture, not just what they can't do yet.
As a licensed physical therapist with nearly 20 years of experience working with children from birth to 18, I've learned that every child has incredible potential waiting to be unlocked. What breaks my heart is when parents tell me their child has started to avoid activities they once loved or seems to be losing confidence because movement feels hard. But here's what gives me hope every single day: with the right support and approach, I've watched countless children not only overcome their physical challenges but discover a joy in movement they never knew was possible.
What makes my approach different is that I don't just focus on exercises and strengthening—I look at your whole child and how their physical development impacts every area of their life, from play to self-confidence to social connections. I specialize in aquatic physical therapy because I've seen the magic that happens when children enter the water: suddenly, movements that felt impossible on land become achievable, fear transforms into excitement, and therapy stops feeling like work and starts feeling like play. Whether through traditional physical therapy or in the healing environment of water, I work closely with you to celebrate every small victory and help you understand how to support your child's progress at home.
Your child's physical development affects their confidence, independence, and ability to fully participate in childhood. The sooner we address their challenges, the more we can prevent them from falling further behind or losing their love of movement. Contact me today to learn how we can turn their struggles into strengths and bring back the joy in movement.
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Exercise Science Degree - George Mason University
Doctorate of Physical Therapy -Shenandoah University
Tracey Yost, OTR/L Occupational Therapy
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As an occupational therapist, I've come to see "occupation" differently than most people do. It's not a job title—it's everything your child does every day to grow, connect, and feel like themselves: communicating, playing, learning, eating, dressing, and simply moving through the world. When any part of that daily life feels hard, whether it's a meltdown over a scratchy shirt tag, a hard time holding a crayon, or missing motor milestones, I know it weighs on the whole family, not just your child.
For more than thirty years, I've worked with infants through young adults in nearly every setting—inpatient, outpatient, clinic, school, and home—supporting kids with autism, sensory processing challenges, learning disabilities, motor delays, and feeding difficulties. Along the way I've trained deeply in sensory integration, feeding therapy, handwriting development, deep pressure and listening protocols, and alternative communication systems like LAMP, and I hold certifications in pediatric massage and infant massage coaching. I've also supervised fieldwork students, helping shape the next generation of pediatric OTs.
But credentials only tell part of the story. What guides my work is curiosity about each child's unique strengths, paired with genuine partnership with your family. Together, we set goals that matter to you, and I help your child build the skills and confidence to reach them, on their timeline, in their own way. It is a privilege to partner with a family to create the best life for their child. If you're ready to see what that partnership could look like for yours, I'd love to talk.
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BS - Occupational Therapy - Elizabethtown College, PA
Senovia Cones Education/Disability Consultant
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Long before I had the words for it, I had the feeling. As a little girl, I would gravitate toward the children who received special education support, not because anyone told me to, but because something deep inside me said this is where I belong. The system did not always make room for them the way it should have, but I wanted to. I did not find this calling. I believe it was sewn into me from the very beginning, and every step since has simply been me following the thread.
I have spent nearly 30 years working alongside children, families, and educators across the country. My roots are deep in early childhood education and special education - from leading preschool classrooms and supporting children with diverse learning needs, to coordinating special education services, building district-wide support systems, and preparing the next generation of educators at the university level. In the classroom and beyond, I have had the privilege of teaching courses on Social Emotional Learning, Early Childhood Inclusive Practices, and Guiding Behaviors. The type of work that lets me pour into educators so that they too can show up for children and families with knowledge, confidence, and heart.
More than any role or credential, what drives me is simple: I have seen what happens when a child gets the right support at the right time. I have watched kids surprise everyone, including themselves. I have sat with families who just needed someone to listen and walk alongside them.
That is the moment my whole heart says YES!
When I show up, my deepest hope is that families leave feeling more confident and less alone, that educators feel re-energized and equipped, and that children feel the difference. This work is not just what I do, it is who I am.
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MAT - National University
BS - University of Maryland University College
AS - San Diego Mesa College
Justin Gutterman, MEd, LMSW Supervisee in Social Work
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I understand how overwhelming it can feel when you're concerned about your child's development. As a parent myself, I know that mix of worry, hope, and determination that comes with wanting the very best for your little one. Whether you're noticing delays, navigating behavioral challenges, or simply feeling uncertain about your child's progress, you're not alone in this journey. I've walked alongside countless families who've felt exactly what you're feeling right now, and I want you to know that seeking support isn't just okay—it's one of the most loving things you can do for your child and family.
My path to supporting families combines deep clinical expertise with real-world parenting experience. I hold dual master's degrees in social work and education, am a Licensed Master Social Worker working toward my Virginia clinical licensure, and I'm pursuing my Registered Play Therapy credential. Currently, I serve as a Service Coordinator with Loudoun County Infant and Toddlers Connection, where I provide parent coaching, evaluations, and service planning for families with young children experiencing developmental delays.
My approach is rooted in trauma-informed, family-centered care that honors your unique family dynamics and builds on your existing strengths. Having spent over a decade in various leadership roles before transitioning to this calling, I bring both professional depth and the perspective of someone who understands life's complexities.
Your child's development can't wait, and neither should your peace of mind. Every day matters in a young child's growth, and the sooner we can work together to address your concerns, the better equipped your family will be to thrive. I'm here to provide the guidance, support, and practical tools you need to feel confident in your parenting journey. Let's schedule a consultation today to discuss how I can help your family move forward with hope and clarity.
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BFA - Ringling College
MEd - Bankstreet College of Education
MSW - Hunter College and the Silberman School of Social Work
Wendy D’Anna, MSW Supervisee in Social Work
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As both a professional and a parent, I know firsthand that parenting is beautifully messy—exhausting and magical, often in the same breath. If you're here, you might be feeling overwhelmed, worried, or just searching for support as your child navigates big feelings, challenging transitions, or moments where they need a safe space to truly be themselves. I want you to know: you're not alone, and seeking help is a profound act of love. Children don't need perfect parents; they need balanced, connected ones who are willing to grow alongside them.
Over the past 15 years as a social worker, I've had the privilege of walking with children and families through their most transformative moments. I bring a trauma-informed, attachment-based approach that honors how children naturally communicate—through play, creativity, and connection. Whether it's storytelling, games, or building with Legos, I believe therapy should never feel like a chore. It should feel like curiosity, connection, and yes, sometimes a little silliness! My work is family-centered because I know that when we support the whole system—not just the child—real, lasting healing happens.
Your family deserves support that feels warm, compassionate, and genuinely helpful. If you're ready to strengthen your connection, navigate these tough moments, and build resilience together, I'd be honored to help. Let's create a space where your child can thrive and your family can breathe a little easier.
Reach out today to get the support your little one deserves.
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BIS - Arizona State University
MSW - The Catholic University of America
Certificate in Infant Family Studies - Harris Infant & Early Childhood Mental Health Training Institute