I’m Dr. Shaina L. Joseph, PsyD, a licensed psychologist specializing in working with children and adolescents. i received my degree from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. My approach to therapy can be summarized using a famous quote: We see things as not they are, but as we are. Essentially this means that I believe in the importance of every person's unique perspectives and lived experiences.
During initial session, we will work to establish a safe and supportive environment and develop a plan to address identified goals. As treatment continues, we will work to alleviate emotional pain in the hope is that symptoms will decrease and your well being will increase.
My therapeutic style is collaborative, warm, empathetic, strength-based and I draw from a psychodynamic, developmental, systems and play therapy approaches to explore ways to enhance the emotional well-being of children and adolescents.
I specialize in working with children and adolescents facing anxiety, depression, difficulties with peer relationships, social pressure, issues of acculturation and systemic oppression. I also have a deep interest in supporting first generation college students with adjusting to the demands of that transition.
I am trained in using attachment based treatments to help children who are experiencing a myriad of behavioral and mental health concerns. I focus on the relationship and bond that children form with their primary caregivers to help them explore their inner world and better understand how they relate to others. I also empower parents by helping them to understand their upbringing and to become better attuned to their children's needs.
My primary goal is to help children communicate emotions and experiences that they may not have the verbal capacity or maturity to articulate directly. I engage in play with children to help them make sense of their environment, relationships, and experiences. Play can provide a safe distance to work through challenging events and feelings like anger, fear, sadness, or confusion. Through using play interventions, I support children with developing different solutions to problems, enhance a child's sense of competence and self-worth, increase communication, cooperation, and empathy and generally gain a sense of mastery.