Children and Teens experience various emotional and social stressors on a daily basis. They may need guidance navigating through these difficult situations. I am dedicated to nurturing and supporting the healthy development of children and teens as well as fostering positive bonds between them and the people who love them.
Psychotherapy focused on helping children and teens differs from adult psychotherapy primarily because of the constant changes in development and experiences. Children and teens are learning and processing new thoughts and ideas in a rapid manner. Therapy helps with their social and emotional needs by utilizing unstructured or structured play, games, art, and role playing. The relationship that develops between the therapist and a child is of vital importance and also helps address the emotional needs of the client. Building a trusting relationship, in which the client feels comfortable, safe, and heard, allows the child or teen to express his/her thoughts and feelings. I provide a safe environment for your child to explore and grow by building a safe and accepting atmosphere. In my office, your child can begin to develop a strong sense of self, express emotions in a healthy manner, enhance positive communication skills, and build good relationships and self esteem.
I specialize in disruptive behavior and believe in working closely with parents creating and developing behavioral plans for home and school. Moreover, I collaborate with all parties involved with your son/daughter. I have found open communication and frequent contact with parents and other multidisciplinary teams provides greater growth and success. In addition, it allows for accountability for your child as well as acknowledges to your child that others care and are working together to ensure his/her happiness.
What are Disruptive Behaviors?
Disruptive behaviors are self- defeating actions that negatively impact others.
- Stealing
- Lying
- Defiance
- Arguing with adults
- Aggression toward others
- Breaking the rules
- Behaviors that disrupt family life
- Plans need to change due to negative behaviors
- Involvement with the law
- Truancy
- Poor interpersonal relationships
What to say to your child about therapy
Discussing therapy with you child, particularly teenagers, can result in a stream of negative thoughts. What’s wrong with me? I’m different from my peers. Everyone is better than me. In order to avoid these thoughts and gain cooperation from your child it is important to approach the issue with empathy. Speak in a calm, loving, non-judgmental way. Show your concern and acknowledge that everyone needs guidance and support when things get difficult. Address their feelings whether it be anxiety or anger, and reassure them that you are going to stick with them through the process. If your child doesn’t wish to see me, suggest they just try one session or offer incentives if they attend.
Signs and symptoms that suggest your child may benefit from therapy:
- Unexpected change in mood or behavior
- Difficulties with mood regulation
- Sleeping to much or too little
- Poor interpersonal relationships
- Physically or verbally aggressive behaviors toward peers or adults
- Disregard for the feelings of others
- Frequent tardiness or absences from school
- Victim or perpetrator of bullying
- Self-harm
- Poor impulse control
- Poor grades in general or if student has been doing well and grades drop
- Isolating oneself from other peers or family
- Unexplained episodes of sadness
- No longer participating in the activities they once enjoyed
- Changes in eating patterns (eats to much or too little)
- Sudden unexplained bed wetting or wetting during the day
- Frequent complaints about headaches, stomachaches, or other physical ailments that are not medically related to a diagnosis
- Loss of a loved one (pets included)
- Experienced or witnessed some kind of trauma
- Experienced a separation or divorce
- Transitioning to a new environment (moving, new school, etc.)