Services
“You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation.” – Plato
Play Therapy
Play: The Cornerstone of Childhood
For children ages 9-12, play remains a vital avenue for learning, growth, and emotional well-being. Through play, children actively explore their world, constructing understanding of complex concepts and relationships. Play is their language, expressing thoughts, feelings, and experiences in ways often inaccessible through verbal communication. Play reveals their strengths, challenges, fears, and hopes. It's a window into their minds and hearts, offering a unique opportunity to connect and support their development In a world increasingly dominated by technology, protecting unstructured playtime is crucial. My specific approach is to incorporate both: Non directive play therapy: Child-led exploration while the therapist observes attentively and responds with empathy. Directive therapy: a structured approach to addressing specific therapeutic goals. Unlike non-directive play therapy, where the child leads the play, the therapist takes a more active role in guiding the process in direct play therapy. Depending on the needs of the child, I continually assess which approach is most appropriate for each child.
Pre-Teens
Counseling for Pre-Teens: Navigating the Turbulent Waters
The pre-teen years are a time of significant growth and change, both physically and emotionally. Many children in this age group face challenges such as academic pressures, peer relationships, self-esteem issues, and family dynamics. Counseling can be a valuable tool for helping pre-teens navigate these challenges and develop healthy coping mechanisms. My Counseling Approach for pre-teens is to provide a safe and supportive space for them to explore emotions and coping skills, improve social skills and academic performance while also strengthening relationships. I utilize Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) focusing on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and Play therapy: using play to help children process emotions and develop coping skills. I do not offer family therapy but do include parents participation regularly at parent sessions.
Teens
Counseling for Teens: Navigating the Adolescent Years
The teenage years are marked by significant physical, emotional, and social changes. Counseling can provide a valuable support system for teens as they navigate these challenges and develop into independent adults. My Counseling approaches for teens include: Providing a judgment-free zone where teens can be completely open and honest and where they can share anything without fear of being criticized Maintaining a collaborative experience where teens are encouraged to explore their challenges. Empowering teens to explore thoughts and feelings and work toward solutions. I incorporate Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): working with clients on identifying and changing negative thought patterns. Also emphasizing mindfulness, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. I do not offer family therapy but do include parents regularly at parent sessions.