Paige Palsgaard, MC, LAC

I have found that children are incredibly resilient and honest and I strive to create as much space for autonomy and self-efficacy as a counselor. I have found that play therapy, expressive arts, and sand tray allows for children to express themselves in a natural and inviting way as well as create opportunities for children to learn to self-regulate and communicate their needs.

Before their first session, people may think counseling will be difficult, intimidating and sometimes scary. I believe that all individuals are their own experts in their life and I strive to serve as a guide to help and support everyone through their journey. I am here to hold hope and compassion for those I work with, especially at times when it’s hard to do that for oneself.

My Education

I graduated from California State University, Sacramento with my Bachelor’s in Psychology and continued my education, receiving my Master of Counseling at Arizona State University. During my time in school, I discovered a passion for working with children and the neurodivergent population.

My Professional Journey

My passion for counseling flourished early on when I volunteered for a Junior Intensive Outpatient Program during my last year of high school. During my undergraduate, I continued to work in the helping field as a Behavior Technician for children on the spectrum. I completed my practicum at Arizona State University Counseling Training Center where I worked with adults with a focus on adjustment periods and stress management. I then completed my internship at Lifeline PCS where I worked with children, teens, and adults that came into counseling for a range of concerns including: ADHD/Autism, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment, and stress management. After my Master’s internship, I continued to work with the neurodivergent population at Arizona Institute for Autism as a Clinical Instructor. I also later gained experience working with the Native population, specifically children with trauma and experiencing grief and loss. I found a love for play therapy, expressive arts interventions, and sand tray therapy. My specialities include, but are not limited to:

• Children

• Teens

• Young Adults

• Play Therapy/Sand Tray

• Expressive Arts Interventions

• Depression/Anxiety

• Autism/ADHD

• Grief and Loss

• Trauma

• Stress Management

In Addition to Therapy

I am originally from California and have been living in Arizona for over 3 years now. I enjoy going on hikes with my partner, reading, painting, and listening to music. I take pride in self-care by spending time with family and friends. I have traveled to Japan for 6 weeks and aspire to continue traveling internationally. I am also a proud mom of my two cats (Salem and Shinx)!