I offer play therapy to provide children with a form of self-expression that meets them where they are at. Some children and preteens prefer to sit and talk, while others are most able to express their thoughts and feelings through toys, art, puppets, and role play.

 

Just as adults need to talk through big life changes, losses, and traumas, many children play through their experiences. When accompanied by a trained play therapist, children are able to do so in a way that helps them feel safe, secure, and understood. Play therapy also provides children with a sense of competence and ability. When children play out their fears, sadness, anger, or worry, it not only eases their anxieties, but achieves a sense of confidence that "I can handle this."

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While play therapy is part of my work with many children, I tailor my approach to each individual.

 

For older children and preteens, we may more often use talk therapy and illustrate therapy concepts through use of metaphor, visuals, or writing. While older children also benefit from expressing themselves in an accepting, secure relationship, they often engage more intentionally and verbally in identifying their struggles and goals and in problem solving.

 

For children processing specific issues, such as parental separation, specific anxieties, or major life stressors, therapy often also involves psychoeducation through normalizing and validating these experiences, reading books,  and doing special activities.​

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Because you are the most important person in your child's life, caregiver sessions are an integral part of treatment. These sessions allow us to meet separately to address your own needs and concerns in parenting your child. I  will meet with you regularly to learn about how you and your child are doing and to help you problem solve immediate challenges with suggestions and resources. These sessions are also an opportunity for me to provide feedback on your child's experience in therapy.

 

You are as important to me as your child, and it matters a great deal to me that you feel supported by our work together.