Ali Piacente
Ali understands the messy, beautiful and often overwhelming realities of raising kids. As a mom herself, she works alongside parents to build steadiness and connection as they navigate the ups and downs of raising children. Ali has supported new and expecting parents as well as those raising school-age children and adolescents facing struggles at home, at school, and through the challenges of growing up. She also cares deeply about supporting adults navigating major life transitions – offering a space to pause, reflect and feel less alone.

How I can help you
My approach to counseling is grounded in warmth, curiosity, and a genuine desire to connect with you. Starting counseling takes courage, and my hope is that when we’re together, you feel supported and understood.
For families with young children, I offer Theraplay® with kids under nine and their parents/caregivers. These playful, structured activities use the parent–child relationship as the foundation for building safety and connection, while also helping with challenges like big emotions, meltdowns, or dysregulation at home.
I use art therapy with kids over 8 years old, teens, and adults, often weaving in polyvagal-informed practices to support awareness of the body and nervous system. My work is trauma-informed, and I’m mindful of how overwhelming experiences can show up in artmaking, in the body, or in the stories we carry.
Even though our life experiences may be different, my goal is that you never feel I’m “above” you as an expert. Instead, I show up as someone who likely knows some of the same emotions you carry and can walk alongside you as you move through them. As you take steps toward more freedom in your life, I am honored to serve as your guide, witness, and companion.
Areas of focus
Primary Modalities
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Parenting Support and parent/child relationships
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Perfectionism and high self-expectation
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Understanding your nervous system
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Perinatal and Postpartum wellness
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Anxiety and life transitions
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Art therapy
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Theraplay
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Polyvagal-informed
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Mindfulness
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Trauma-informed
Training and Education
01/2024
LCPC #LC1473
06/2025
LCPAT #ATC412
05/2024
ATR-BC #17-256
2026
2025
2017
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Maryland State Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists
Licensed Clinical Professional Art Therapist
Maryland State Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists
Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist
Art Therapy Credentials Board
45 CEU Hours Clinical Supervisor Training
CCFAM Training
Certified Theraplay Practitioner
The Theraplay Institute
Trained in Perinatal and Postpartum Mood Disorders
Postpartum Support International
