About Me
Gracie Virden
LMSW
I am passionate about helping children feel safe, understood, and confident in who they are. I believe every child has unique strengths, and that therapy can provide a supportive space to navigate big feelings, life changes, and everyday challenges.
I draw on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), and motivational interviewing, blending these evidence-based approaches with creativity, play, and mindfulness to create a personalized experience for each child. I also hold a 30-hour Children's Yoga Instructor certification, which I bring into sessions to build mind-body awareness, teach breathing techniques, and strengthen focused attention and decision-making skills. My goal is to help children build coping skills and strengthen self-esteem, so kids feel understood and parents feel equipped with tools that carry the work forward at home.
My path to this work started early. I earned my Early Childhood Education certification before college, then studied Family Science and Human Development at the University of Maryland, where I also worked as an assistant teacher at the campus Child Development Center. I went on to complete my Master of Social Work at the University of Maryland School of Social Work, with clinical training across medical social work, adoption services, and outpatient counseling. Most recently, I worked as a school-based mental health therapist supporting K-5 students, experience I now bring to my work with families here at Little Minds.
When I am not working, you can find me in a yoga class, playing pickleball, trying out new baking recipes, or hosting game nights with friends!
