Jessica Hood, MSW, LCSW
About Me
HI! My name is Jessica and I am a therapist in Indianapolis as well as the owner here at ICT.
When I am not running my kids around to their various sports and activities, you will most likely find me behind a keyboard managing the practice, tinkering on technology, or reading a book. Honestly, I am in that phase of life where there isn’t much free time and y own bedtime is staritng to creep earlier and earlier (IYKYK).
I am fiercely passionate about helping kids of all ages and doing so in a way that they feel good about themselves while also giving parents the tools to support them. As a mom, I KNOW how hard parenting can be and I am so honored to be able to provide a place where kids and parents can get real help.
My Specialties
ADHD & SCHOOL ISSUES
Following directions, attention, defiance
Behavior Issues
Defiant, Arguing, Talking back, Lying, Stealing
Oppositional Defiant Disorder
OCD & Related Issues
Utilize Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) as well as Inhibitory Learning (IL) and ACT as needed. Some experience with Trichotillomania, Tics, and Tourette’s using Habit Reversal Training and ComB Model
Anxiety Disorders
Grief & Loss
Death or loss of relationships
Social Anxiety & Other Issues
Difficulty making & keeping friends, social skills, difficulty with social interactions, etc
Lil Bit More Info
AGES SEEN
5 years and older.
Jessica truly enjoys working with all ages and being able to have variety in her small caseload. She does has a passion for working with teens however. Additionally, Jessica finds that her direct approach is very beneficial to young adults looking for direction and guidance as well as parents who could use practical feedback on parenting.
Please note that due to carrying only a small caseload, Jessica only takes clients by direct referral.
PHILOSOPHY
Jessica understands that children don’t exist in isolation—their struggles and successes are deeply connected to their families, schools, and communities. She values collaboration with parents and caregivers, believing that lasting change happens when the whole system is supported, not just the child in the therapy room.
Her approach is client-centered and practical: therapy should feel meaningful, tailored to each child, and result in real, observable change. Jessica integrates evidence-based practices like CBT, DBT, ACT, and solution-focused strategies in ways that are playful, creative, and accessible to kids of all ages.
Families working with Jessica can expect honesty, warmth, and a direct but compassionate style. She believes in equipping children and parents with tools they can use in daily life, while fostering resilience, confidence, and hope for the future.
Q & A TIME
How would you describe yourself?
I think most people would say I am a big personality. I’m a little bit sarcastic and a lot a bit direct. While I can be loud and outgoing, in the therapy room, I am a great listener and have a presence that makes kids and parents alike feel at ease.
What excites you about working with kids?
I love the honesty and fun that kids bring to sessions. It’s so cool to get to find out what they like and build connection with them. BUT, what really excites me is knowing that getting help now is creating a better and more healthy future for them as an adult!
If you could give parents one piece of advice, what would it be?
Ok, well I am giving away my #1 therapy tip for free here, but when correcting your kid- say whatever you need to say in ONE short and simple sentence (not a run-on like this one)! Also, make sure you have connection before you try correction.
Education & Experience
Jessica is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who loves working with children of all ages as well as their families. She has been in the field for over 15 years and has experience working in residential centers, schools, child welfare, and outpatient settings.
Bachelor’s & Master’s Of Social Work
from Indiana University
Summer Study Abroad in Guatemala
BTTI for OCD (through IOCDF)
ERP, Inhibitory Learning, and ACT
As well as past supervision under Dr. Storch
Additional Training
DBT, SFBT, TF-CBT, CPT, and play therapy
Parent of 2
Sister of 2 special needs siblings
NASW- IN CONFERENCE PRESENTER
On Solution Focused Brief Therapy & Private Practice 101
IAMFT CONFERENCE PRESENTER
On OCD & Technology in Private Practice
Guest Lecturer
IUPUI 2014 & 2015 for S685- Mental Health and Addictions Practice: Individuals and Families
CTS 2020 for Children and Adolescents in the Family
Founder of Indy Private Practice Network
Has Completed Theraplay Level 1
TV Appearances & Articles
Indy Child Magazine
Sibling Strife
Indy Child Magazine
Handling Holiday Stress
Indy Child Magazine
Pregnancy Predicaments
CBS 4
Kids’ Sleep Schedules
Fox 59
Kids Exposed to Crime
Fox 59
10 Ways to Beat the Holiday Blues
Fox 59
10 Ways to Beat the Holiday Blues
What Is ERP for OCD and Why It Works for Kids
What Is ERP for OCD and Why It Works for Kids By: Jessica Hood, MSW, LCSW One of the questions I get asked a lot in therapy, and honestly one of the first things I talk about with families experiencing OCD, is “What is ERP for OCD?” In this post, I’m going to explain…