top of page

Sydney Burns

Counseling Intern

Phone:

(480) 789-9713

Email:

PHILOSOPHY OF COUNSELING

As a dedicated child-focused counselor, I have spent my career supporting the well-being of children, striking a balance between evidence-based practices and an inclusive, compassionate approach. My commitment to lifelong learning is evident in my ongoing pursuit of education through reading, research, and professional development, which translates directly into my work.

 

In 2017, I founded a successful reading clinic to support kids with learning differences, furthering my passion for helping children thrive. Currently, I am completing my MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) to enhance my ability to support children and their families.

 

My approach to therapy is uniquely tailored to each child, drawing on my extensive background in child development. Understanding the importance of collaboration, I also provide psychoeducation to parents and families, ensuring a comprehensive support system for every child.

SELECTED PROJECT:

Person-Centered Therapy - an essay exploring the person-centered approach to counseling.

WORK EXPERIENCE

April 2024 - Current

Taproot Therapy

May 2017 - Current

Arcadia Literacy & Learning

Counseling Intern

As a counseling intern, I work directly with clients of all ages, specializing in children aged 3-10. I utilize a range of therapeutic modalities to best meet the unique needs of each individual, with a focus on play therapy, sand tray, art therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS). My experience encompasses both individual and group therapy, allowing me to support clients in various settings.

Reading Specialist / Clinic Director

As the Clinic Director and Reading Specialist for the dyslexia reading clinic I founded, I lead with passion and a deep commitment to helping every child unlock their potential. I manage a dedicated team of 15 instructors, working closely with them to design innovative, evidence-based curriculum that meets the unique needs of our students. My role involves personally assessing each child, ensuring that our multisensory reading intervention programs are not just effective, but profoundly impactful. These tailored programs are designed with the individual in mind, offering specialized support for children with dyslexia, ADHD, Dyspraxia, and other learning differences. My work is driven by the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, and I am dedicated to providing the tools and guidance to make that possible.

Sep 2012 - May 2017

Literacy and Language Center

Private Coach

Reading Specialist / Case Manager

As a reading specialist, I collaborated on the development of curriculum and program plans, monitored student growth, and maintained communication with parents on progress. I worked one-on-one with children with learning disabilities such as ADHD, Autism, and Auditory Processing Disorder, helping them improve their reading, writing, and comprehension skills. I learned modern instructional techniques that emphasize child confidence, enhance learning, and support develop. 

LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION

Letter by Supervisor

Clinical Intern

Screenshot 2025-02-02 at 12.30_edited.pn

Literacy Specialist

Letter by Management

Screenshot 2025-02-02 at 12.35.29 PM.png

EDUCATION

B.A. Psychology

San Francisco State University

2013

Bachelors of Arts in Psychology with a special

interest in child development. Held a Psi Chi

membership with the National Honors Society for Psychology

M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Grand Canyon State University

2025 (In Progress)

Actively pursuing a Master's in Clinical Mental Health

Counseling with a specialization in Child and

Adolescent Development, dedicated to equipping

young individuals with emotional support and care.

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATION

ACA Membership Information

Screenshot 2025-02-03 at 11.42.53 AM.png
bottom of page