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Heather Shirm, Therapist in Wellington, FL

Introduction

I’m a therapist who works with children and adolescents, helping them navigate trauma, big emotions, anxiety, and life changes in a way that feels safe, supportive, and empowering. I provide both in-person and telehealth therapy for kids and teens ages 5–18, and I believe that healing happens best when a child feels truly seen, heard, and understood.

My approach is strengths-based and tailored to each child’s unique needs and developmental stage. I use a combination of trauma-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing, and play-based interventions to help children build emotional awareness, coping skills, and resilience. I strive to meet kids where they are and move at a pace that feels right for them.

I have experience working with children and families from diverse backgrounds in private practice and community settings, and I value collaboration with caregivers as an important part of the therapeutic process. My goal is to support not just the child, but the family system as a whole, offering guidance, education, and encouragement along the way. I’m deeply committed to creating a calm, compassionate space where children can feel safe exploring their thoughts and feelings. It’s an honor to walk alongside families during difficult moments and to help children grow in confidence, connection, and hope.

Service Specialties

  • Anxiety
  • Behavioral Issues
  • Depression
  • Family Conflict
  • Relationship Issues
  • Trauma
  • PTSD

Education

  • Master’s in Social Work, Florida State University

Licenses

  • Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Therapeutic Approach

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Mindfulness Based
  • Play Therapy
  • TF-CBT- under 18

Insurance

  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • Curative
  • NOMI
  • Seminole Tribe

Location

In office in Wellington

Virtually throughout Florida

Contact

info@caringtherapistsofbroward.com

What can I expect in my first few sessions with you?

In the first few sessions, my focus is on helping your child feel comfortable and safe while I get to know them and your family. I move at a pace that feels right for your child, using conversation, activities, and play to build trust and understand their strengths, challenges, and goals. I’ll also spend time connecting with caregivers to gather background information, answer questions, and talk through what support might look like at home. Early sessions are about building a strong foundation so therapy can feel supportive, collaborative, and effective over time.

What makes you different from other therapists?

What makes my approach different is the way I blend structure with flexibility and truly meet each child where they are. I take time to build trust and create a calm, safe environment before expecting change, and I adjust therapy to fit your child’s personality, developmental level, and needs. I value collaboration with caregivers and believe that meaningful progress happens when children feel supported both in and outside of sessions. Above all, I bring patience, curiosity, and compassion into my work, and I see therapy as a partnership focused on helping your child feel understood, capable, and hopeful.

What inspired you to become a therapist?

I was drawn to therapy through a strong interest in how early experiences shape emotional well-being. Supporting children as they build resilience and confidence is what inspires me every day.