Jessica Peterson LCSW

Jessica Peterson, LCSW 

Jessica (she/her) received her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia in May 2007. She has spent the past 15 years working in medical social work with the majority of her career devoted to pediatric and adolescent patients. Jessica provided support and crisis intervention to families experiencing a number of challenges including unexpected hospitalization, new diagnoses, trauma and death. She gained significant experience supporting children and families experiencing child abuse and neglect as well as working with Children’s Division and Juvenile Officers during investigations. Jessica spent the most recent four years working at a local pediatric and adolescent specialty clinic where she supported a variety of populations. While working in the clinic, she screened individuals for anxiety, depression and suicidality as well as provided crisis care and linked families to resources including mental health programs. 

Jessica’s background in medical social work gives her a unique perspective and knowledge of chronic illness and overall physical and mental well-being. She is comfortable working with an inter-professional team when appropriate. Jessica is educated in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI). Jessica’s clients can expect honesty, empathy, compassion and acceptance. 

 Jessica’s areas of interest include working with those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma and eating disorders. She is pursuing additional training and education in different therapeutic approaches including those specific to eating disorders and trauma. Jessica works with clients of all ages with specific interest in children, adolescents and young adults.