Jessica Hood, MSW, LCSW
About Me
When I am not running around outside playing with my kids, you will most likely find me behind a keyboard managing the practice, building a website (like this one), or simply scrolling through Facebook. I am fiercely passionate about helping kids and doing so in a way that they feel good about themselves while 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 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
Mood Disorders
Depression, anxiety, irritability
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 has a passion for working with teens. 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.
PHILOSOPHY
Jessica knows the importance of working closely with families to assist them in dealing with the specific and daily challenges that they may be experiencing in the home, school, or community. She believes including the family is important to the long term success of therapy with children. She knows therapy should be client specific & result in the change you want to see. Jessica provides an honest and direct approach in working with children and their families
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
