Children, Teens, and Families

If you are feeling confused and frustrated, know that you are not alone! Every child is also unique; which can make parenting very difficult. Sometimes it may seem that you've just figured it out, and then as if overnight, their behavior changes again, and you're left not knowing what to do.   

It is normal for children to have big emotions. They just don't have the verbal ability and skills to express what they are feeling. Instead, they often express it through behaviors such as crying, yelling, hitting, sleep or toilet regression. Your child may express that they feel out of control and want to stop, but just can't. As a parent it can leave you feeling irritated, sad, and even helpless on what to do next. 

Play therapy can help your child regulate their emotions. Children have great imaginations and inner worlds that are invisible to adults. Through imaginative play, they express their thoughts and feelings in ways that may never be spoken.  Feelings that children struggle to recognize or express often emerge through play therapy (ex. anxiety, helplessness, anger, grief). As a play therapist, I respond to the child's play and help them confront the issues they are facing in a way that does not feel scary. Together, we can begin to develop skills and give them the confidence and comfort they need to grow.  

Teens:

Between social media, peer pressure, and even rigorous academic coursework today's world has unique sets of challenges for today's teens. Teen therapy is designed to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where teenagers can speak freely about everything taking place in their lives.  

Families:

Often life creates unexpected situations for families whether that be one member suffers from a mental health disorder, a child struggles with a developmental/behavioral/physical challenge, or a major change takes place such as a move or divorce/remarriage.  All family members are affected when problems or difficult experiences emerge. Family therapy aims to increase positive communication, decrease conflict, and strengthen relationships within a family.