Welcome! I'm Mia Grajeda-Willard, LCSW. I am the proud spouse of a Marine Corp. veteran and the granddaughter of a World War II veteran. These amazing humans are proud of their military service and the legacy it provides their families for generations to come. While that is true, what is also true is that transitioning from military life back to civilian life was a struggle for them, as I know it is for many veterans and their families. I have committed my career to serving those who served this country by walking alongside veterans, and their family members to affirm their identity, transition back to civilian life, heal from painful traumas, and reconcile ruptures in relationships that may have resulted in challenges from military life or pre-military childhood upbringings.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

During our first session, you can expect personable time spent on building trust and rapport, as the relationship between client and therapist is the most important component of successful therapy. Gathering relevant information about what brings you to therapy and completing clinical assessments will also be explored to understand the context of the problems you would like to work on.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

As a spouse to a combat veteran on a journey toward recovering from PTSD, I can relate to the relational issues and parenting issues that go hand-in-hand with the uniqueness of military culture. I understand how the training and experience within the military are both a strength and challenge within a family structure, especially for children. The communication style that is necessary and effective within the military is not as effective or beneficial within the home life. I am empathetic and understanding, while also unwavering in the truth that vulnerability, attachment, and evidenced-based methods can help your family get back on track. I am client-centered, family-focused, and transparent in that true healing happens with the support of others, and the completion of successful child therapy goals happens with collaborative parental engagement in the therapeutic process.

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

I have over 15 years of experience working with veterans. The last six years have been within the clinical therapy setting, where I have included the veteran and/or non-veteran parent, dependent spouse, and child(ren). My specialty is with children and adolescents of veterans, spouses of veterans, veterans, and survivors of intimate partner violence.

About Mia Grajeda-Willard