Kira Mendoza

LCSW • Licensed Clinical Social Worker

In-person only

About

Stepping into the world of play, Kira Mendoza, affectionately known as "Miss Kira" to her youngest clients, brings a unique and compassionate approach to therapy. As a play therapist at JSA, Kira specializes in working with children aged 3 and above, but her bilingual skills in Spanish and deep passion for healing have expanded her practice to include individuals of all ages.

Kira's therapeutic approach is rooted in child-centered play therapy, allowing her to truly immerse herself in the perspective of her young clients. By stepping into their shoes, she gains invaluable insight into the core of their struggles. Recognizing the intricacy of a child's world, Kira skillfully decodes it through playthings and other aids. Her goal is to establish a shared understanding, boost self-awareness, self-confidence, and self-worth, while helping children grasp their reality.

Beyond her work with children, Kira collaborates closely with parents and families, providing effective techniques to enhance home life and enrich family dynamics. Her holistic approach ensures that the therapeutic benefits extend beyond the counseling room and into the daily lives of her clients.

For clients of all ages, Kira embraces empathy, compassion, and a touch of humor to guide them through their difficulties with a human-centered approach. Understanding that there's no one-size-fits-all solution, she adapts her methods to meet the unique needs and desires of each patient. Kira draws inspiration from various therapeutic approaches, including mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and person-centered therapy, to foster the development of healthy lifestyles and habits.

Kira's areas of focus are diverse, encompassing work with children and families, adolescents, and adults. She specializes in addressing anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, anger management, ADHD, parenting challenges, self-esteem concerns, and life transitions and adjustments. Her educational background includes a BS in Psychology from the International University of Florida, an M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health from Springfield College in Boston, and additional training in Play Therapy from the same institution.

With Kira Mendoza, clients can expect to establish a solid therapeutic bond as they embark on a path to healing, finding inner peace and balance along the way. Her warm personality, combined with her professional expertise, creates a safe and nurturing environment for growth and positive change.

Qualifications

Education

  • Master's Degree

State Licenses

  • Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • Licensed Professional Counselor
  • Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Specialties & Expertise

Specializations

  • ADHD
  • Anger Management
  • Anxiety
  • Behavioral Issues
  • Child or Adolescent
  • Depression
  • Parenting
  • Self Esteem

Race, Gender & Sexual Sensitivities

  • LGBTQ+ Allied

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Locations

Jill Smith + Associates - Downtown Columbia
1777 Bull St
Columbia, SC 29201

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