Trudy M Seifke

In the hallways of middle and elementary schools, a compassionate presence is making a significant impact on young lives. Trudy M Seifke, an Associate Marriage Family Therapist, has found her calling in providing essential mental health support to children and adolescents during their most formative years. With a keen understanding of the unique challenges faced by today's youth, Seifke has crafted a multifaceted approach to counseling that addresses the pressing needs of students in a school setting.

Seifke's work spans four schools - two middle schools (Martin Luther King and Lincoln) and two elementary schools (Pablo Tac and Foussat) - where she dedicates four days a week to nurturing the emotional well-being of students. Her expertise shines through in her ability to create safe spaces for children to explore their inner worlds and develop crucial life skills. Whether working one-on-one or in small groups, Seifke guides young individuals on a journey of self-discovery, helping them improve communication skills and cultivate personal strengths.

Recognizing the pervasive impact of grief in schools, particularly in the wake of recent global events, Seifke has taken a proactive stance. She co-facilitates a "Grief Group" that has garnered such positive response that it has doubled in size, now accommodating students across 6th, 7th, and 8th grades during both lunch periods. This initiative demonstrates Seifke's adaptability and responsiveness to emerging needs within the school community.

Seifke's commitment to addressing critical issues is further evidenced by her work with a weekly group of 5th-grade girls who are grappling with self-harm behaviors. By intervening at the elementary school level, she is tackling problems that traditionally surfaced later in adolescence, showcasing her preventative approach to mental health care. Additionally, Seifke conducts groups for boys and girls of various ages, focusing on developing self-regulatory tools for managing anger at school and home.

As Seifke approaches the completion of her clinical exam, which will lead to full licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist in California, she continues to expand her impact. Her creation of a "safe space" lunch bunch, which she has successfully transitioned to student leadership, exemplifies her belief in empowering youth to support one another. Through her dedicated work, Trudy M Seifke is not just counseling; she is shaping resilient, emotionally intelligent individuals who are better equipped to face life's challenges.