Baum Therapy LLC
Expert Teen
&
Play Trauma Therapist
Shasta Baum-Strait, LCPC
Whether your child has had a tough time with past therapists or is trying therapy for the first time, my goal is to make the process feel safe, natural, and even empowering.
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I’m a trauma therapist with 10 years of experience helping kids and teens work through difficult life events—like parental separation, abuse, or overwhelming anxiety over school and friends—as well as big behaviors such as cutting and rebellious activity. Many of the kids I work with have tried therapy before, but didn’t feel comfortable opening up. I take a different approach—one that relies on the relationship between me and your child which is the #1 clinical aspect proven to be the most reliable factor for healing and change.
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One of my specialties is EMDR for children and teens, a powerful, science-backed method to process trauma through movement and play. Although many therapists are trained in EMDR, my experience and training focus’ specifically on how to tailor and adapt this transformative trauma resolution method for children and teens. I have EMDR level 1 & 2 training on adapting the neuroscience of EMDR to be developmental appropriate for children/teens. I also have advanced training in EMDR for dissociation in kids and teens, helping those who feel disconnected or "zoned out" due to past trauma.
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I will occasionally take on an adult client who has a background of trauma with narcissism or emotionally immature parents or relational abuse as it aligns with my own specialty and experiences.
Qualifications
Credentials
Education
Masters in Counseling, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)
I hold a Masters in Counseling Education, M.Ed, at Montana State University - Billings which trained me to take a family and community systems approach with a focus on solution oriented trauma-informed interventions.
Experience
A Decade of Practice
With10 years of practice with children from age 3 to 18, I have seen many families suffering from stigma and loss of hope. I have served the reservation community for the last 7 years. I have worked with the Polson and Ronan Schools to incorporate a team approach, while addressing more challenging traumas that create obstacles in all aspects of children’s lives. I successfully help teens and children overcome trauma, anxiety and emotional difficulties.
Background & Associations
Since the beginning of my career I have continually focused on teen and children trauma resolution methods.
I enthusiastically engage in professional training focusing on healing trauma to stay updated on the latest methods and research in EMDR and dissociation.
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I am an active member of the ACA (American Counseling Association).
Recent Trainings
EMDR trainings:
EMDR Training Part 1 & 2
Recognizing & Treating Youth with Dissociation: Weaving together play therapy, family therapy and trauma therapy protocols (EMDR)
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Trainings that incorporate the body into treatment:
Certificate for Working with What the Body Knows: Somatic Experiencing
Certificate for Emotional and Disordered Eating: Trauma-Informed Clinical Tools
Mindfulness Certificate Course
Trainings that align with my speciality:
Narcissistic Abuse In-Depth Workshop with Ramani Durvasula
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Providing Inclusive, Respectful Care to Your Gender Questioning, Transgender, & Nonbinary Clients
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Supporting Children Through and After Divorce
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Anxiety in Children and Adolescents
Compassionate Care
Welcoming & Easy to Talk With
I approach every client with compassion and curiosity. The most important aspect of my work is your child, and the foremost question in my thoughts is never what is wrong with you, your family, child or teen. I ask what has happened to them. Every behavior has purpose. And each origin story is capable of explaining the now. I want your story in your words.
Results
Proven Success
My specialized blend of trauma expertise paired with attachment and systems understanding combines a unique set of skills that serve children and teens best with a relational approach. The clients I see the most success with are anxious teens, children needing play therapy, relational (the unseen) trauma, children caught in the middle of divorce/conflict and nonbinary & LGBTQIA+ children/teens.
Insurance Coverage
Accepted Plans
I accept a variety of insurance plans to ensure that children and teens can access the necessary therapy and support.
*If you are unsure if I accept your insurance, please reach out and ask.
Please check with your insurance provider for coverage details.
*I charge $175/session- and expect to carry a card on file for payments
I do offer reduced payments for those who cannot access care without it. These are select spots that often have a wait list.