As a therapist, I’m here to help you understand your feelings and why certain things might feel hard or confusing. Together, we’ll explore your thoughts, emotions, and the ways you react to different situations. Think of it like solving a puzzle—sometimes, we just need to find the missing pieces to feel better! In our time together, we’ll talk, play, and discover new ways to handle big emotions, build confidence, and strengthen relationships with yourself and others. You’re not alone, and I’m here to help you feel more like you. Think of it as a journey of self-discovery, with me guiding and supporting you every step of the way. 💛
In our first session, I’ll gather information to better understand you. This will also be your chance to share any concerns or challenges you may be facing. In each session, we’ll look at the issues that matter most to you, whether they’re related to daily life, relationships, or work. The goal is to help you develop a clearer sense of yourself and feel more confident in how you navigate the world.
One of my greatest strengths as a provider is my ability to build genuine, trusting relationships with the children and families I work with. With over three decades of experience in both the medical and spiritual communities, I have learned that true healing and growth come from a foundation of mutual respect, trust, and transparency. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where children feel heard, valued, and understood, allowing them to open up and engage in meaningful ways. My background in counseling, sociology, human development, and social services—along with my Ph.D. in education and marriage and family therapy—has given me a deep understanding of the complexities of human relationships. This knowledge helps me connect with children on a personal level, tailoring my approach to meet their unique needs. I believe in empowering young individuals by fostering positive relationships that encourage self-expression, confidence, and resilience. Above all, my work is driven by a passion for helping children and families navigate life’s challenges with strength and hope. I approach every interaction with warmth, patience, and an unwavering commitment to their well-being. By combining my academic expertise with my deep-rooted belief in the power of connection, I strive to make a lasting impact in the lives of those I serve.
1. Children (Ages 3-12) Struggling with Emotions and Behavior I love working with young children who need a safe space to express themselves through play. Whether they’re dealing with anxiety, trauma, family changes, or social difficulties, I help them process emotions in a way that feels natural to them. Since children often communicate more through play than words, I use play therapy to understand their struggles and guide them toward healing. 2. Adolescents (Ages 13-18) Facing Anxiety, Self-Doubt, or Emotional Challenges Teenagers often have a hard time opening up about their emotions, especially when anxiety, peer pressure, or self-doubt are involved. I specialize in helping adolescents feel heard, build confidence, and develop healthy coping strategies. Through a mix of cognitive-behavioral techniques, mindfulness, and supportive conversations, I help them navigate their thoughts and emotions in a way that empowers them. 3. Parents Looking for Guidance to Support Their Child I also work closely with parents who want to better understand and support their child’s emotional well-being. I provide guidance on creating a calm and validating home environment, reinforcing coping skills, and fostering open communication. I believe that healing is most effective when families work together, and I love helping parents feel more confident in their role. 4. Families Who Appreciate a Holistic Approach, Including Spirituality Since I integrate spirituality into therapy when appropriate, I enjoy working with families who find comfort in exploring how their beliefs shape their emotional well-being. Whether it’s processing grief, finding meaning in life’s challenges, or using mindfulness as a coping tool, I support clients in whatever way feels most meaningful to them. The Clients I Connect With Most ✔️ Open & Engaged – Whether it’s the child, teen, or parent, they are open to the therapy process and willing to explore emotions in a safe, supportive space. ✔️ Ready for Growth & Healing – They may be struggling, but they are looking for ways to develop healthy coping strategies and build resilience. ✔️ Value Connection & Support – They appreciate a therapist who not only helps the child but also provides guidance for the family. ✔️ Embrace Creativity & Expression – They thrive in an environment where emotions can be explored in nontraditional ways, whether through play, storytelling, or mindfulness. ✔️ Committed to the Process – They understand that growth take
How Does Child Therapy Work? (A Parent-Friendly Explanation) Child therapy, often called play therapy, is a special way to help children cope with their emotions, work through challenges, and grow into happy, well-adjusted individuals. Instead of sitting down and talking about their feelings like adults do, children use play to express themselves. A trained therapist uses this natural form of communication to help children understand their emotions, solve problems, and develop healthier behaviors. Why Play? As parents, we know that play is more than just fun—it’s how children explore the world, express their thoughts and feelings, and build important life skills. Play helps children: • Understand their surroundings • Learn how things work • Express their emotions • Develop physical, mental, and social skills Even though children learn to talk as they grow, they often communicate more through play than words. By observing their play, therapists—and even parents—can gain deep insights into what a child is thinking and feeling. How Does Play Therapy Help? Think of how animals play—it’s not just for fun; it helps them develop survival skills. The same is true for children. Play allows them to practice real-life situations in a safe and controlled environment. When a child is struggling—whether with family changes, anxiety, trauma, or other challenges—play therapy gives them a way to express those feelings and find ways to cope. A therapist carefully watches how a child plays, noticing patterns that might reveal hidden emotions or struggles. This helps them understand what’s really going on inside the child’s mind and develop strategies to support them. What Happens in a Play Therapy Session? Every session is different, but a play therapy session usually involves a child in a their own specially designed playroom with toys and activities chosen to encourage expression. The therapist allows the child to lead the play while offering gentle guidance and setting boundaries when needed. For example, a child worried about a sick parent might act out a doctor scene with dolls, showing their concerns in a way they might not be able to say out loud. Over time, this can help them process their emotions and talk about their fears. Who Can Benefit from Play Therapy? • Play therapy is especially helpful for children (usually ages 3-12) who are dealing with: • Family changes like divorce or loss • Anxiety, fears, or trauma • Social difficulties or aggression • Behavioral challenges • Special needs that cause frustration or emotional distress The goal is to give children a safe space to express themselves, process difficult emotions, and learn better ways to handle life’s challenges. A Safe Space for Healing The most important part of play therapy is that it provides a judgment-free zone where a child can be themselves. The therapist does not criticize or correct their feelings but instead helps them navigate their emotions in a supportive way. As parents, understanding the power of play can also help us connect with our children better. By paying attention to how they play, we can gain insight into their emotions and offer them the comfort and guidance they need. Play is not just about fun—it’s an essential part of learning, healing, and growing.