630 Ralph Ablanedo Dr. Unit #7
Austin, TX 78748
FOX & ACORN
Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist™
Neurodivergent-Affirming Play & Nature-Based Counseling
Meet Tala Decaix, MA, LPC, RPT™, NCC —
Child Therapist in Austin, Texas
I’m Tala Decaix, a licensed professional counselor (LPC, RPT™, NCC) and neurodivergent-affirming child therapist in Austin, TX. I specialize in helping kids ages 3-18 and families struggling with mood, emotional regulation, trauma, attachment, and interpersonal relationships using play therapy, family systems work, and outdoor walk-and-talk sessions. Play therapy is an evidence based approach. Research studies support the use of play as the primary communication tool for young children. Learn more about play therapy here: https://a4pt.org
I’m passionate about supporting neurodivergent children and their families. As a first-generation American of Syrian descent, I naturally incorporate cultural humility and competence into my work, recognizing the unique experiences of immigrant and multicultural families.
Education:
-
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas, Virginia and Maryland
-
Registered Play Therapist™ (RPT™)
-
National Board Certified Counselor (NCC)
-
Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling – The George Washington University
-
Bachelor’s Degree – The University of Texas at Austin
APT approved trainings:
-
Nature Based Play Therapy
-
Child Centered Play Therapy
-
Introduction to AutPlay Therapy
-
Cultural Opportunities for Working with Middle Eastern Children
-
Building a Neurodiversity Affirming Play Therapy Practice
-
Creating a Sensory Affirming Office and Playroom
-
Working with Autistic Young People
-
Multicultural Play Therapy
Treatment Approaches
At Fox & Acorn Child Therapy, we draw from multiple evidence-based and trauma-informed models to support the whole child. Our approach is always tailored to each child’s unique needs, with a strong foundation in neurodivergent-affirming and relational practices.
-
Child-Centered Play Therapy
An evidence-based model where play is the child’s language and toys are their words. We use a prescriptive, integrative approach aligned with neurodivergent-affirming care to support emotional growth and self-expression.
-
Neurodivergent-Affirming Therapy
Values the diverse ways children think, play, feel, and connect. We adapt each session to meet the child where they are without pathologizing their differences.
-
Attachment-Based Therapy
Strengthens relationships between children and caregivers, helping to repair or reinforce trust, security, and connection.
-
Nature-Informed Therapy
Walk-and-talk sessions in natural environments reduce stress, foster mindfulness, and help children regulate through movement and outdoor engagement.
-
Trauma-Informed Therapy
Recognizes the impact of trauma on the nervous system and development. Our work prioritizes safety, connection, and empowerment.