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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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.
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Developmental Milestones From Infancy to Adolescence
Knowing what developmental milestones your child should achieve can aid in assisting with their development. Read this article to learn more.
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Stress in Children: Signs, Causes, and How to Help Your Child Cope
Stress in children can be reduced if they know how to navigate their stressors. Read on to learn some ways to help them cope with stress.
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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.
