Frequently Asked Questions

My practice is dedicated exclusively to helping families, children and parents who are facing emotional, behavioral, relationship, family and school problems.

Unlike other local practices,I do not see numerous types of clients.I focus on children (even very young ages) teens and families.

Areas of expertise:

• helping children and teens work through what troubles them

• helping children and teens with issues at school or with friends

• helping children and teens manage their behaviors

• helping parents to better understand their children

• helping parents to support their children

• helping parents and children to have better relationships

• helping families through divorce and other events

For more information on specialties click here

 Therapy provides guidance and an outlet for children to learn to successfully express their emotions. It provides a safe, consistent, nurturing space for children - outside the home - to explore, process and work through their feelings via talk or play.
 

Sometimes children are afraid to talk to their parents about how they feel for fear of worrying or upsetting them or causing problems in the family.
 

Sometimes they do not even know themselves what is wrong.
 

Therapy can help uncover and resolve children's problems by getting at the underlying issues. Once these issues surface, children are able to process and move through them and handle future problems much easier.
 

Therapy also builds children's sense of self (i.e., self-esteem, self-regard), which is important for healthy growth and development. With a solid sense of of self, children are better able to manage feelings, contain their behaviors, experience a sense of confidence, and engage in healthy relationships. 

During the intake process, treatment goals are discussed and planned. 

The length of therapy depends on individual goals and how quickly one feels comfortable to process issues. Please take in consideration that to undertake an emotionally-charged journey requires dedication of 6-8 sessions minimum to achieve the best outcome. 

***Sessions can be weekly, bi-weekly, or multiple times per week. 

Regardless of the exact words parents choose, it is important to be honest, open, and empathic. Parents of young children can say something like, "I know it's been hard for you lately and you've been struggling with these feelings of sadness, anger, worry, or fear. I also know it can be hard to talk about these things and sometimes we just feel confused. So, we get to meet with someone who helps kids make sense of those feelings and feel better. You get to see all her toys, play, and talk about whatever is bothering you. She will help you with that and it will be your safe place to share things and thoughts".

I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor with advanced specialty training in child development and mental health.  

I am experienced in the areas of child development, child mental health and behavior problems, family issues, parent coaching, and parent-child relationships.

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Children's behavior reflect their internal world. Sometimes children struggle to manage emotions and are not always able to directly express them, so they come out in their behaviors. These behaviors can range from very minor to severe and may include the following:

· disruptive behaviors at home or in school 

· trouble with peer relationships

· easily angered, frustrated or overwhelmed 

· over-sensitive or excessively worried and anxious

· struggles with change or new things

· difficulty staying focused

· fearful of separation

· engaging in self-harm or risky behaviors 

· shutting down and isolating themselves

Significant life events, for example such as divorce, a loss of someone close, parental substance use, illness or learning problems can have an impact on children's behaviors.

***To properly diagnose your child and understand whether therapy is necessary or not, it is recommended that you schedule a free consultation with me