An appointment Tweens actually look forward to!

OFFERING THERAPY VIRTUALLY IN NEW YORK, Maine, RHODE ISLAND, & FLORIDA, OR IN PERSON ON LONG ISLAND.

Supporting Tweens 10+ Through Growth, Change, and Big Feelings

“I just don’t know how to help them.”

Every parent of a kid who’s struggling has felt helpless at some point in time, and maybe even like they’re failing in their job as a parent.

I am here to tell you, as a child therapist: You’re doing better than you think.

Simply being here, reading this, means you’re taking the steps to support your child in overcoming their challenges.

What might be going on right now:

You might be noticing your child…

✓ Struggling to make friends

✓ Showing signs of anxiety

✓ Developing specific fears that hold them back

✓ Falling behind in school

✓ Resisting the word “no”

✓ Fighting constantly with parents, siblings, or friends

Through it all, therapy can be your family’s anchor, helping to course-correct the trajectory of your kid’s life.

What makes my Tween therapy approach work?

Building Connection

Tweens need to feel respected and understood. All the training in the world doesn’t help if a therapist feels intimidating or disconnected. I focus on building trust, meeting your child where they are, and becoming another safe adult they feel comfortable opening up to.

Leaning into play, music, and more.

Tweens don’t always want to sit and talk. I blend conversation with movement, creativity, and expressive activities that feel natural for this age. Drawing from my theatre background, sessions may include music, gentle movement, creative expression, and moments of humor, all tailored to help tweens feel engaged and at ease.

BOOK YOUR FREE CHAT

FAQs about Child Therapy

I take an eclectic approach to sessions, bringing in different modalities depending on what will best serve your child! Here are some types of therapy I’m trained in:
・DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy)
・CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)
・Mindfulness-based stress reduction and mindfulness
・Psychodynamic therapy
・Play therapy
・Couples and family therapy (certification pending)
・ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)
Every child’s journey in therapy is unique, just as each person's challenges and experiences are distinct. For some, positive changes might be noticed within a few sessions, while for others, it might take longer to identify and work through underlying issues. And know this: Simply seeking help is already a significant step forward!
I give most kids a few minutes to just play at the beginning of the session to help them acclimate. Then, I’ll bring in the type of therapy I think will best fit your child, which could include play, mindfulness, yoga, music, dance, and games.
Your collaboration is 100% welcomed and encouraged! Here’s an overview of what this partnership may look like:
・Initial assessment: At the start, we'll discuss your concerns and hopes for your child's therapy.
・Regular updates: While respecting your child's confidentiality, we'll have periodic check-ins to share general progress and feedback.
・Integration: At times, I might recommend family sessions or at-home strategies.
Your involvement is key, and I'm here to guide both you and your child through this journey.

Intake evaluation: $310 (60 minutes)
Individual therapy: $230 (45 minutes)
Family therapy: $300 (60 minutes)
No, I do not directly accept insurance. However, some clients receive reimbursement from their insurance companies by submitting invoices from our sessions. I’m happy to provide any necessary documentation to assist you in seeking out-of-network reimbursement. It's a good idea to check with your insurance provider about their reimbursement policies for out-of-network services.
We talk — that’s it. You can ask me anything you want, and I may ask you questions about what led you to seek a Long Island child therapist so that we can both evaluate if moving forward with therapy sessions is the best move for your child at this time.
Sessions take place either virtually (for any resident of NY, RI, ME, & FL) or in-person at my Long Island office.
Your choice!

Hi, I’m Melissa Tract

LCSW | MSW | B.A. Psych

My friends jokingly call me a “kid-adult” because I never quite let go of my honesty, enthusiasm, and love for adding a touch of fun to everything I do.

That’s probably why I’ve always been drawn to working with the youngest among us, helping them create their sense of self, develop strong mental health, and navigate the tumultuousness of growing up.

My roots in theatre allow me to weave creative expression into our sessions, whether it's through playful activities, song and dance, or just a sprinkle of humor. If this sounds like a match for your child, I’d love to connect!