Conversations with Healers, Helpers, & Guides: Jeymarie Guerra, A Neuroaffirming Registered Play Therapist, Early Childhood Specialist & Qualified Supervisor

Conversations with Helpers, Healers, and Guides is a monthly blog series from Holistic Healing and Wellness with Sabrina LLC to spark conversation with other wellness professionals to share perspectives on different ways mind, body, spirit health can be supported.

Today, we are talking with Jeymarie Guerra,  a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who is passionate about neuro-affirming and trauma-informed care. She is a wealth of knowledge in the SOFLO community and beyond. 

Sabrina: Tell us who you are, where you practice, and what you specialize in:

Jeymarie: My name is Jeymarie Guerra, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Registered Play Therapist, Certified AutPlay Therapy Provider®, and Early Childhood Specialist. I practice in Davie, Florida, where I founded Supportive Engagement—a neuro-affirming, trauma-informed private practice supporting children, teens, families, and K-12 schools. I specialize in ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, early childhood mental health, and trauma, using play-based and experiential approaches including Filial Therapy.

Sabrina: What inspired you to start your practice?

Jeymarie: I started my practice because I believe every child deserves to be heard and supported, regardless of their abilities. I saw too many families struggling alone, feeling blamed or misunderstood. I wanted to create a space where neurodivergent and trauma-impacted youth—and their caregivers—could feel safe, respected, and empowered. As an early childhood specialist, I’ve always believed that early intervention through connection and play can spark lasting healing.

Sabrina: What led you to specialize in trauma and neurodivergence, and how do these components contribute to holistic well-being?

Jeymarie: My focus on trauma and neurodivergence came from repeatedly seeing how often children’s behavior was misinterpreted rather than understood. I was drawn to Filial work in particular because I believe parents are the most powerful change agents for their children—when they are given the tools and support to connect, regulate, and lead with empathy. These components contribute to holistic well-being by promoting relational safety, emotional regulation, and self-awareness—foundations for mental health that last a lifetime.

Sabrina: Are there specific principles, values, or philosophies that guide your practice in promoting overall health?

Jeymarie: Absolutely. I believe in co-creating spaces of emotional safety, where every child and parent feels respected and empowered. My work is guided by the principles of relational neuroscience, consent, neurodiversity-affirming practice, and cultural humility. I also honor the power of play as a vehicle for communication and healing across the lifespan.

Sabrina: What is your favorite aspect of being a therapist?

Jeymarie: What I love most about being a therapist is witnessing transformation—when a child learns to advocate for themselves, when a parent begins to understand their child through a new lens, or when a family reconnects after years of struggle. Being part of that healing journey is a true honor.

Sabrina: How does neuro-affirming care play a role in supporting mental well-being, and how do you tailor guidance for mental health benefits?

Jeymarie: As someone who specializes in early childhood, play therapy, and neurodiversity, I focus on meeting families where they are. I tailor interventions to support sensory needs, emotional regulation, and attachment. Whether I’m using Filial techniques, social-emotional play, or trauma-informed tools, I always work from a place of strengths and co-regulation. Mental well-being is nurtured when children feel safe to be themselves—and when their caregivers feel confident and connected.

Sabrina: What is the number one thing you want the reader to know about the mind-body connection, especially if they are recovering from trauma?

Jeymarie: The mind-body connection is central to healing. Trauma isn't just stored in memory—it lives in the body. True recovery begins when we feel safe in our relationships and in our bodies. Play, movement, breath, and safe co-regulation with others are not “extras”—they’re essential parts of healing.

Sabrina: Do you have any special offerings available for your clients? 

Jeymarie: Yes! At Supportive Engagement, we offer several group therapy experiences designed to foster connection, healing, and empowerment across the lifespan:

The Spectrum Connection – A safe and supportive space for middle and high schoolers exploring their Autism identity. Through guided discussions, creative activities, and group socials, participants foster self-discovery, acceptance, and meaningful friendships.

ADHD Navigators – A welcoming community for middle and high school students with ADHD. This group helps members connect with peers who “get it” while learning practical strategies to improve focus, manage emotions, navigate school challenges, and build confidence.

Midlife Reflection & Renewal Group – A nurturing space for women 35+ navigating midlife transitions. This group supports reflection, self-discovery, and the cultivation of renewed purpose and clarity during this powerful life stage.

Self-Compassion Group – Open to all adults, this group helps participants develop a more compassionate relationship with themselves, reduce self-criticism, and strengthen emotional well-being through evidence-based practices and peer support.

Each of our groups is led by compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming clinicians who are committed to creating spaces where people feel safe, seen, and supported.

Sabrina: Is there anything else you want our community to know?

Jeymarie: Here at Supportive Engagement, we don’t aim to “fix”—we aim to provide support, tools, and compassion. We help families move from chaos and confusion to connection and growth. Healing is possible when we create space for it—together.

Read more about Supportive Engagement here

Follow Supportive Engagement on Instagram here

This blog post is co-authored by Jeymarie Guerra, LMHC, RPT, ASDCS, and Sabrina Cruz, LCSW, RYT-200.