Every parent wants what is best for their child, but we don’t always know how best to support them. We might feel uncertain when our child is struggling at school socially or academically—unsure of how to help when we aren’t in the classroom with them. We might worry about how a big family transition will impact our child—such as a move, separation, new baby, or loss of a family member or pet. We might be concerned when we notice our child exhibiting behaviors or moods that seem new, unusual, or alarming. Even when we want to support our children, sometimes we need extra help from a professional.

When working with children, there are two therapy options:

• child therapy (meeting 1:1 with a child)

• family therapy (meeting with the whole family).

You may be wondering, which options is right for you? No matter what, child therapy is inherently family therapy as well, because children are integral and dependent members of their families. They are highly attuned and sensitive to family dynamics, so their needs and expressions are not in isolation. As a therapist, my job is to support the entire family system in addition to supporting the child, whether in family therapy or child therapy. The main difference is in family therapy, we explore dynamics and patterns all together, with everybody present.

Individual child therapy is a place for children to be able to express what is on their conscious and unconscious—through play, art, and written and spoken words. When working with an individual child, I am still in close communication with parenting adults, and optionally other important adult presences in their life, such as teachers or coaches.

I specialize in working with children who are experiencing:

• a family transition

• behavioral challenges

• social issues with peers

• big emotions

• anxiety

What child therapy looks like often depends on the developmental and emotional needs of the child, but usually includes a combination of:

• non-directive play therapy (the child picks the activity)

• directive play therapy (I suggest an activity)

• art therapy

• talk therapy

Providing children with a safe and open place for them to be in full expression of themselves, coupled with extra tools and support at home, allows them to develop an inner sense of safety, confidence, and calm. You can learn more about my approach to therapy here.