Therapy for Children
As parents and caregivers, we often hope to create a “perfect” life for our children, where they are happy and successful all of the time. We also know this is an impossible task. When we reach out for help, it can sometimes feel like admitting we can’t always fix things for our kids. However, I want to suggest that asking for support is a brave thing to do, and it powerfully strengthens your commitment to and connection with your child.
I am here to help your child reconnect with their most joyful self and build the resources they need to navigate life’s ups and downs. Whether your child has experienced a loss, trauma, or is struggling with anxiety, attentional issues, behavioral challenges, or self-esteem concerns, let me assure you that things can get better.
My Approach to Working with Children
Children express themselves and process their experiences differently than adults. My therapeutic approach is tailored to their developmental stage, creating a safe and engaging space where they can explore their feelings and learn new ways to cope. I utilize a range of developmentally appropriate techniques, including:
Therapeutic Play: For younger children, play is their natural language. Through carefully selected toys, creative activities, and imaginative play, children can express feelings, process difficult experiences, and work through challenges in a way that feels safe and natural to them. Play therapy helps children build self-awareness, emotional regulation, and problem-solving skills.
Child-Centered and Relational Focus: I prioritize building a trusting relationship with your child, creating an environment where they feel seen, understood, and accepted for who they are.
Trauma-Informed Care: For children who have experienced trauma, our work focuses on creating safety, processing difficult memories gently, and helping their nervous system find safety. This often involves integrating body-based (somatic) awareness in age-appropriate ways.
Expressive Arts: Drawing, painting, storytelling, and other creative outlets can help children express emotions that are hard to put into words.
Skill-Building: We can also work on developing practical skills like emotional regulation, social skills, problem-solving, and building self-confidence, often integrated into play or activities.
My goal is to support your child’s capacity for healing and growth, helping them develop resilience. If you’re interested in helping your child reconnect with joy and navigate their challenges, I’d love to work with you every step of the way.