Michael Vallejo, LCSW
Michael received a Master's Degree in Social Work from Portland State University in 2010. He is a licensed as a Clinical Social Worker in Colorado and Oregon. He values a non-judgmental and collaborative approach to therapy. Michael utilize a strengths-based, goal-oriented approach, which includes skill-building, and strategies from solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and various dialectical behavior therapy skills.
Prior to starting his private practice in 2014, he worked in a residential treatment center for children and teens, at a shelter for at-risk youth, and as a child and family therapist in a community-based mental health agency. He specialize in working with boys with behavioral, emotional, and /or school difficulties. Michael's primary age of focus is 10-18 years old.
Specialties: Working with boys, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Stress, Depression, Mood difficulties, Behavioral difficulties, and School related concerns.
Latest Articles by Michael Vallejo, LCSW
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Positive Self-Talk Worksheets for Anger, Depression, Anxiety, and More
Help kids manage emotions with our positive self-talk worksheets. Teach them to replace negative thoughts with supportive, realistic statements.
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15 Problem-Solving Activities for Kids to Build Critical Thinking
Discover 15 fun problem-solving activities for kids that build critical thinking, creativity, and confidence, perfect for home or classroom learning.
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80 Creative Outlets for Mental Health
Explore 80 creative outlets that can improve your mental health. Learn new ways to relieve stress and express your feelings.
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Research on the Link Between Early Smartphone Use and Health Risks in Children
A new study shows that early smartphone use in children is linked to higher health risks, with helpful tips for parents and caregivers.
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Yoga for Grief: Helping Heal Through Movement and Mindfulness
Discover how yoga for grief can support healing after loss. Explore mindful movement tips and gentle practices to nurture your well-being.
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Research on TF-CBT for Kids Facing Non-Sexual Abuse Trauma
This research summary presents findings on how trauma-focused therapy aids children who have experienced abuse and offers strategies to support healing.
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Self-Control Worksheets and Handouts: Printable Activities to Help Kids Pause, Think, and Respond
Find self-control worksheets that support impulse control, anger management, and emotional regulation at home, school, or therapy sessions.
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What Is the Depression Stage of Grief?
The depression stage of grief can be a difficult phase to navigate after losing a loved one. To overcome the challenges of this stage, read this article.
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Research on Adolescent Substance Use: Risks and Interventions
A new study reveals what drives teen substance use and how parents, schools, and communities can help. Read the full insights here.
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What is the Acceptance Stage of Grief?
While grief may be a difficult experience, eventually, there comes acceptance. Read on to learn more about the acceptance stage of grief.
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Friendship Worksheets for Kids: Printable Activities to Help Build Strong Friendships
Strengthen your child’s social skills with friendship worksheets for kids. Posters and handouts are also available.
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10 Books That Help Children Cope With Separation Anxiety
Discover 10 children’s books about separation anxiety that help young readers build emotional skills and feel secure during time apart.
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10 Best Children's Books About Teamwork and Cooperation
Find books about teamwork that teach kids how to work with others in a fun way, plus tips to reinforce lessons with discussion, activities, and praise.
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Compassion Worksheets: Printable Exercises to Teach Kids Kindness
Help kids become caring and thoughtful with compassion worksheets. These can be used by therapists, educators, and parents.
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27 Fun Conflict Resolution Activities for Kids
Conflict resolution activities for kids can teach children how to respond to problems with grace, empathy, confidence, and kindness. Learn more in our article.
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Kindness Worksheets: Printable Activities to Help Kids Build Empathy and Compassion
Printable kindness worksheets help kids practice empathy and compassion through fun and easy daily activities.
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What is Inattentive ADHD
Inattentive ADHD is different from hyperactive or combined ADHD. Learn the symptoms, treatment, and ways to support a child with the condition.
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10 Books About Lying for Kids and Why Telling the Truth Matters
Help kids understand the value of honesty. These 10 books about lying show how telling the truth builds trust and stronger relationships.
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10 Best Mindfulness Books for Kids to Build Calm and Focus
Discover 10 mindfulness books for kids that teach calm, focus, and emotional skills through fun stories and easy-to-do activities.
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Empathy Worksheets for Kids: Teach Empathy and Compassion in Minutes
Teach young people to recognize, understand, and share others’ feelings with these empathy worksheets for kids.
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10 Best Anger Management Toys for Kids & Teens
Anger can be overwhelming for children and teens. Learn how anger management toys can help them regulate their emotions.
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Research on the Effectiveness of Web-Based Self-Help Tools for Teen Depression
Using online mental health tools can help young people feel better in the short term. Here are the findings, plus tips for parents and caregivers.
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Research on Gestures and Childhood Communication Skills
Research shows that gestures support children in expressing feelings and remembering what they learn. Learn more here.
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10 Printable Self-Awareness Worksheets for Kids
Discover 10 printable self-awareness worksheets that teach kids to notice feelings, identify strengths, and manage emotions day to day.
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Best Pretend Play Toys for Kids of all Ages
Discover the best pretend play toys for every age. Spark creativity, build skills, and inspire endless storytelling from toddlers to tweens.
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How to Handle Jealousy in Children
Does your child seem to be easily jealous? Discover what causes jealousy in children and what techniques you can use to boost their self-esteem.
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What is Cognitive Flexibility, and How Can Kids Learn to Develop It?
Cognitive flexibility is what makes children adaptable, resilient, and open-minded. Learn why it matters and how to nurture it.
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10 Best Children’s Books About Feelings and Emotions
Explore 10 feelings books for kids that help them recognize emotions and develop healthy ways to express how they feel.
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Research on the Benefits of Exercise for Children and Teens with Autism
Research shows exercise supports social, cognitive, and physical skills in kids with autism. Explore the findings and ways to apply them at home.
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12 Fun Sharing Activities for Kids
Sharing activities for kids can teach your child to become more compassionate and empathetic. Learn how to incorporate them into everyday life.
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Research on Assertiveness Therapy to Reduce Bullying in Teens
A review found that assertiveness therapy helps both bullies and victims. Find out the full results of the research and learn ways to help your child or teen.
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10 Printable Gratitude Worksheets and Handouts for Kids
Teach kids gratitude with engaging worksheets that support reflection, mindfulness, and positive thinking.
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How to Help Kids Build Emotional Intelligence
Building emotional intelligence in children enables them to become self-reliant and manage themselves during challenging times. Here’s what it entails.
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Research on Outdoor and Arts-Based Activities for Teens
Teens can gain more confidence, social skills, and mindfulness through outdoor and creative experiences. Learn more from this research.
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Understanding the Levels of Autism Spectrum Disorder
Understanding the levels of autism can help determine the amount of support a person needs to succeed in life. Learn more about ASD in our article.
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Research on the Impact of Comparing Your Child to Others
A recent study reveals how comparing your child to “better” kids affects their confidence and how a positive outlook helps. Learn more here.
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10 Printable Growth Mindset Worksheets for Kids
Help your child build confidence, resilience, and a love of learning with these 10 growth mindset worksheets.
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12 Best Children's Books About Perseverance
Discover 12 inspiring children's books on perseverance that teach determination and the importance of never giving up in the face of challenges.
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Research on Communication Barriers Between Parents and Teens Related to Mental Health Support
In this research paper, learn how parents and teens can overcome barriers to talking about mental health and improve family communication.
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10 Books About Leadership for Kids I Personally Recommend
Discover 10 inspiring leadership books for kids that teach confidence, problem-solving, and how to lead with kindness at school, home, and beyond.
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Research on Yoga’s Benefits for Children’s Mental Health
This research review reveals how yoga helps reduce anxiety, boost focus, and promote calm in kids and teens. Keep reading to learn more.
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Flexible Thinking Activities for Kids of All Ages
Flexible thinking activities for kids can teach them to be adaptable, self-reliant, and more confident in themselves. Here’s what you can try!
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Borderline Personality Disorder vs. Bipolar: Understanding the Difference
BPD vs. bipolar disorder—what’s the difference? Learn how to distinguish between the disorders and how to get the right kind of help.
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Research on the Benefits of Gardening for Children with Eczema and Their Caregivers
A study examined how therapeutic gardening supports the well-being of caregivers and children with atopic dermatitis. Explore the findings here.
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Tiger Parenting: Is It Helping or Hurting?
Tiger parenting is a strict, authoritarian approach focusing on a child’s academic success. Learn how it can impact your child.
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Research on The Link Between Parenting and Separation Anxiety in Kindergarteners
This study involving 300 kindergarteners shows how parenting style can affect separation anxiety. Learn more here.
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ADD vs. ADHD
Confused between ADD vs. ADHD? Learn the differences in terminology, what ADD entails, and what characterizes ADHD today.
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Relational Aggression in Schools
Learn how to identify and address issues with relational aggression in schools. Get tips on how to help your child cope.
