Kimberly Tucker, LMHC is the founder and clinical director of Pineapples Therapy.
About Kimberly Tucker, LMHC, RPT-S
Kimberly Tucker, LMHC is a highly respected Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with over a decade of experience helping children, families, and couples navigate the complexities of life’s challenges. Her practice is rooted in a deep commitment to fostering emotional well-being and resilience in her clients, and she is recognized for her compassionate approach, keen insights, and effective therapeutic techniques.
Early Beginnings and Education
Kimberly began her journey into the field of therapy with a strong desire to understand the human experience and a passion for helping others. She pursued her undergraduate degree in Psychology at West Liberty State University, where she graduated with honors. Her academic success was driven by a fascination with the mind and a growing interest in the dynamics of family relationships.
Inspired to make a tangible difference in the lives of families, Kimberly continued her studies, earning a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University. Here, she gained foundational knowledge and skills in psychotherapy, with a particular focus on individual therapy. Her master's thesis, which explored the impact of parental conflict on child development, laid the groundwork for her future specialization in child therapy- and later in marriage counseling.
Determined to deepen her expertise, Kimberly went on to earn the prestigious Registered Play Therapist credential, and later the advanced Registered Play Therapist Supervisor credential. Her year long training program in Play Therapy focused on the long-term effects of childhood trauma and issues related to healthy attachment which later became a cornerstone of her practice.
Professional Experience and Specializations
Over the past ten years, Kimberly has built a thriving private practice where she provides therapy to children, families, and couples. Her extensive training and experience allow her to offer a wide range of therapeutic services, including marriage counseling, child therapy, play therapy, and EMDR for trauma and anxiety.
Marriage Counseling
Kimberly is particularly skilled in marriage counseling, where she works with couples to address issues such as communication breakdowns, infidelity, and emotional distance. Her approach is collaborative and strengths-based, focusing on helping couples rebuild trust, enhance emotional intimacy, and develop effective communication strategies.
Kimberly believes that every relationship has the potential for healing and growth, and she is dedicated to guiding couples through the process of reconnecting and rediscovering the love that brought them together. Her sessions are tailored to the unique needs of each couple, and she employs a variety of evidence-based techniques, including Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method, to foster lasting change.
Child Therapy and Play Therapy
Kimberly has a profound understanding of the emotional and developmental needs of children. Her specialization in child therapy allows her to connect with young clients in meaningful ways, creating a safe and supportive environment where they can express their thoughts and feelings.
Play therapy is one of Kimberly's key modalities for working with children. She is trained in various play therapy techniques, which she uses to help children process complex emotions, develop coping skills, and improve their emotional regulation. Through play, children are able to explore their inner worlds, resolve conflicts, and gain a sense of mastery over their experiences.
Kimberly works closely with parents as well, providing guidance and support to help them better understand their child’s behavior and emotional needs. She believes that involving the family in the therapeutic process is crucial for achieving positive outcomes, and she often incorporates family therapy sessions into her work with children.
EMDR for Trauma and Anxiety
Kimberly is a trained EMDR therapist with extensive experience in using this powerful technique to treat trauma and anxiety. EMDR is a highly effective, evidence-based therapy that helps individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences by stimulating the brain’s natural healing processes.
In her practice, Kimberly has successfully used EMDR to help clients overcome a wide range of issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, and phobias. Her gentle and supportive approach ensures that clients feel safe and comfortable throughout the EMDR process, allowing them to confront and resolve painful memories without becoming overwhelmed.
Kimberly is particularly adept at using EMDR with children and adolescents who have experienced trauma. She tailors the technique to suit the developmental level of each client, integrating it with other therapeutic modalities as needed to create a comprehensive treatment plan.
Approach to Therapy
Kimberly’s approach to therapy is holistic, integrative, and client-centered. She believes that each person is unique, and she is committed to creating individualized treatment plans that address the specific needs and goals of her clients. Her therapeutic style is warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental, fostering a trusting relationship where clients feel heard, understood, and valued.
One of the core principles of Kimberly’s practice is the belief in the resilience of the human spirit. She views therapy as a collaborative journey, where she and her clients work together to explore challenges, identify strengths, and develop strategies for overcoming obstacles. Whether she is working with a child, a family, or a couple, Kimberly is dedicated to helping her clients achieve greater emotional well-being, healthier relationships, and a more fulfilling life.
Ongoing Professional Development
Kimberly is committed to staying at the forefront of her field, continually updating her skills and knowledge through ongoing professional development. She regularly attends workshops, conferences, and training sessions to ensure that she is providing the most effective and up-to-date care to her clients.
She is also a member of several professional organizations, including the American Counseling Association (ACA), the Association for Play Therapy (APT), and the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA). Through her involvement in these organizations, Kimberly stays connected with the latest research and developments in the field of therapy.
Personal Life and Interests
Outside of her professional life, Kimberly is passionate about promoting mental health and well-being in the broader community. She volunteers her time to provide workshops and seminars on topics such as parenting, stress management, and relationship building. She is also an advocate for children’s mental health and works with local schools and organizations to support children and families in need.
In her personal life, Kimberly enjoys spending time with her family, practicing yoga, and exploring the great outdoors. She finds balance and inspiration in nature, and she often incorporates mindfulness and relaxation techniques into her therapeutic practice.
Conclusion
Kimberly Tucker, LMHC is a dedicated and highly skilled therapist who has made a significant impact on the lives of her clients. With her specialized training in marriage counseling, child therapy, and EMDR, she is well-equipped to help individuals and families navigate the challenges of life, heal from past traumas, and build healthier, more fulfilling relationships. Whether you are seeking support for your child, your relationship, or your own emotional well-being, Kimberly Tucker, LMHC is here to guide you on your journey towards healing and growth.