Our team

Kira Mendoza

Hi there! I am very glad that you are here.

I’m known by many names, but the little ones simply call me “Miss Kira.”   I am originally from Cuba, born and raised, and I am half Chinese. I have embraced this identity and call myself “Cubanese.” 

I am a play therapist at JSA, working on children aged 3 and above. However, due to my ability to speak Spanish and my deep passion for healing, I have expanded my scope to include people of all ages. I take great pleasure in helping and guiding children, teenagers, and adults on their journey to healing.

When I engage with children, I utilize child-centered play therapy as my approach. By immersing myself in their perspective, I am able to truly comprehend the heart of their challenges. By stepping into their shoes, I gain insight into the core of their struggles. A child’s world is intricate, and I strive to decode it through their playthings and other aids. Employing child-centered methods, I aim to establish a shared understanding, boost their self-awareness, self-confidence, self-worth, and grasp their reality.

Collaborating closely with parents and family, I also provide effective techniques to enhance their home life. Working hand-in-hand with these caregivers, I offer strategies that I hope enrich family dynamics.

By embracing empathy and compassion, and sprinkling a touch of humor, I am able to guide clients of all ages through their difficulties with a human-centered approach. I completely understand that there is no universal solution that suits everyone, which is why I adapt to the unique needs and desires of my patients. I draw inspiration from various therapeutic approaches, including mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and person-centered therapy, to foster the development of healthy lifestyles and habits.

Let’s establish a solid therapeutic bond as we embark on the path to healing, finding inner peace and balance along the way.

Areas of Focus:

  • Children and Families
  •  Adolescents, Adults
  • Child-centered play therapy
  • Anxiety
  • Depression 
  • Behavioral issues
  • Anger  
  • ADHD
  • Parenting
  • Self-esteem 
  • Life transition and adjustment

Education 

  • BS in Psychology – International University of Florida  
  • M Ed. in Clinical Mental Health – Springfield College (Boston) 
  • Play Therapy program – Springfield College (Boston)