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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Good Manners Worksheets: Printable Activities to Teach Respect and Kindness
Learn how good manners worksheets can help kids practice respect, kindness, and everyday social skills at home or in school.
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21 Emotional Intelligence Activities, Exercises, and Worksheets
Children with high emotional intelligence are confident, resilient, self-aware, and strong problem-solvers. Here are emotional intelligence activities to try at home and in school.
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Research on Teen Resilience and Emotional Balance in Daily Life
How do resilient teens manage everyday stress? Read this study to learn more insights and what it means for your child.
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Gratitude Journal Prompts: 100 Prompts for Cultivating Gratitude
Discover 100 gratitude journal prompts that helps you reflect on daily moments, growth, and relationships.
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Why Parents Should Do Mental Health Check-Ins With Their Children
Learn how to do effective and age-appropriate mental health check-ins with your child. This guide offers tips on timing, phrasing, and when to seek support.
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44 Evidence-Based Coping Skills for Kids
Learn 44 proven coping skills for kids to handle emotions, reduce anxiety, and develop healthy habits.
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10 Mental Health Websites Offering Evidence-Based Tools and Resources
Looking for credible, evidence-based information and support for mental health? Discover the ten best mental health websites online.
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Research on How Grief Changes a Child’s Brain
How does grief affect a child’s brain? Learn what research reveals about brain changes after experiencing loss and how children gradually heal.
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Self-Forgiveness Worksheet: Printable Activities to Help You Let Go and Heal
Download a self forgiveness worksheet for kids to help children process mistakes, let go of guilt, and learn healthier ways to move forward.
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How to Recognize Signs of Emotional Distress in Children and Teens
Emotional distress in children and teens isn’t a mental disorder, but it can have a big impact. Learn the signs and how to offer support.
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13 Mental Health Exercises to Improve Clarity, Calm, and Well-being
Mental health exercises can be the reset button your child needs when they’re overcome with stress. Discover their benefits and how they work.
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Research on the Benefits of Long-Term Exercise for Children with ADHD
Exercise can support motor development in kids with ADHD. See the research and learn ways to encourage activity.
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Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD Type
Hyperactive-impulsive ADHD manifests as constant movement, excessive talking, and difficulty controlling actions. Learn its diagnosis and treatment.
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10 Healthy Ways to Release Anger
Finding healthy ways to release anger allows you to let go of the feeling while addressing the problem. Here are some helpful tips for anger management.
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How to Teach Responsibility to Kids
Responsible kids are independent, self-confident, and emotionally resilient. Learn how to teach responsibility to kids in our article.
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Research on the Impact of Mindfulness and Relaxation on Children’s Mental Health in School
A qualitative study looked into simple mindfulness and relaxation exercises in school and their impact on children. Here’s what students shared.
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Positive Punishment vs. Negative Punishment: Key Differences Explained
Understand the key differences between positive punishment vs. negative punishment and find effective tools to improve your child’s behavior.
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Healthy vs. Unhealthy Coping Skills
Understanding healthy vs. unhealthy coping skills can make a difference in how well you manage triggers. Learn how to build coping strategies that support you.
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How to Set SMART Goals with Kids
SMART goals set your child up for success by making their objectives specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Learn more!
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Research on Daily Routines and Their Role in Helping Children Thrive
Findings show that routines have research-backed benefits for children. Read the full summary to learn more.
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ADHD: Combined Type
ADHD combined type involves a mix of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. Learn the symptoms and how you can support your child.
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SMART Goals Worksheet: Printable Activities to Help Set and Achieve Goals
Help kids turn goals into clear steps with SMART goals worksheets.
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How to Explain Anxiety to a Child in a Way They Can Understand
Knowing how to explain anxiety to a child can make the concept less scary and more approachable. Read our article to discover helpful tips.
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20 Fun Yoga Games for Kids to Build Strength and Mindfulness
Turn mindfulness into a fun activity with these 20 fun yoga games for kids! Build strength, balance, focus, and improve well-being for all ages and skill levels.
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How to Calm Your Child’s ADHD Brain With Yoga
Yoga is a great way for kids with ADHD to ground themselves, calm down, and find inner peace. Learn more about yoga for ADHD with simple poses and tips.
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Research on the Impact of Sports on Executive Function and Academic Achievement in Teens
Discover the latest research on different types of physical activity and their impact on executive function and school performance.
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Yoga for Anxiety: Helping Kids Feel Calm and Grounded When They Feel Anxious
Yoga for anxiety can help children manage intense emotions and regain inner peace. Learn what simple poses you can try to help eliminate negative feelings.
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Research on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Preventing Substance Use
Life-skills programs can help bridge knowledge gaps for kids at risk of making unhealthy choices about substances. Learn more about this study.
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50 Yoga Poses for Kids for Strong Bodies and Calm Minds
Help your child build strength and calm their mind with these 50 yoga poses for kids. Options include tree pose, child’s pose, and more.
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24 Fun Friendship Activities for Kids to Build Strong, Happy Friendships
Fun friendship activities offer opportunities for friends to develop and practice being kind, empathetic, and reliable. Here are 24 activities to try.
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Yoga for Kids: Benefits, Poses, and How to Get Started at Home
Yoga for kids can help reduce stress, boost focus, and enhance body awareness in a fun and engaging way. Learn some simple poses to try with your kids.
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Research on the Cognitive Benefits of Barefoot Walking in Teens
Learn how simple barefoot walking can boost teens’ brain health based on a recent study, and practical tips for families.
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How Mindful Movement Improves Focus, Balance, and Stress Relief
Mindful movement combines physical activity with emotional wellness by encouraging individuals to stay present. Learn how it improves mental well-being.
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7 Fun Perspective-Taking Games and Activities for Kids
Master empathy and social awareness with these fun perspective-taking activities for kids. Use role-play and games to build emotional intelligence.
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Is Anxiety Neurodivergent?
Is anxiety neurodivergent? Explore expert perspectives, definitions, and the link between anxiety and neurodivergent conditions in this informative guide.
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Research on Effective Trauma Treatment for Young Children (Ages 0–6)
Learn what research reveals about PTSD treatment for young children ages 0–6, including insights for supporting healing at home.
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Accountability Worksheets: Printable Activities to Teach Responsibility and Ownership
These printable accountability worksheets help kids take responsibility, build independence, and follow through at home and school.
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How to Nurture Your Child’s Mental Health This Year
Discover how to nurture your child’s mental health with three practical and easy-to-implement parenting tips.
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50 Fun Outdoor Activities for Kids That Boost Mental Health and Well-Being
Try these 50 fun outdoor activities for kids that boost mental health and well-being. Our list includes creative play, sports, and more.
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9 Best Kindness Crafts for Kids at Home or School
Discover 9 fun kindness crafts for kids! From kindness jars to painted rocks, these hands-on activities teach empathy and compassion at home or school.
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Research on Parental Leave and Children’s Emotional Well-Being
Can extra parental leave in a baby’s first year benefit them later in life? Here’s what research shows.
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10 Building Resilience Worksheets for Kids
Building resilience improves a child’s ability to persevere through tough times. Discover ten resilience worksheets to help them develop this skill.
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Mental Health Resolutions for the New Year
The new year is a perfect time to help kids set goals for themselves. Discover 5 mental health resolutions for the new year that you can share with your child.
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24 Fun Team-Building Activities for Kids for Every Setting
Discover 24 fun team-building activities for kids to improve their social skills, increase their confidence, and enhance collaboration among peers.
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60 Mental Health Books for Kids (2026)
Reading is a powerful educator. Discover 60 mental health books for kids to teach your child to manage their emotions.
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Research on Using Music to Support Teen Mental Health
Curious about music and teen mental health? Learn what studies show and how parents can help teens listen safely and positively.
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Emotional Development in Early Childhood: Definition, Stages, and Tips
Emotional development in early childhood is essential for building social awareness, empathy, and resilience. Learn ways to support it.
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6 Ways to Teach Kids Self-Control and Make Better Choices
Teaching self-control for kids helps with managing behaviors, impulses, and emotions. Learn ways to teach your child self-control and regulation.
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Honesty Worksheets: Fun Printable Activities That Teach Truthfulness
Help kids learn and practice honesty and integrity with fun, printable honesty worksheets.
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Research on the Link Between Nutrition, Stress, and Teen Mental Health
New research shows that healthy eating, stress management, and positive friendships all play a role in teen mental health. Learn more here.
