Childhood and adolescence are filled with growth, change, and challenges. Sometimes children and teens need extra support navigating big emotions, difficult experiences, or transitions that feel overwhelming.

You may be noticing that your child or teen is:

• Feeling anxious, worried, or overwhelmed

• Having frequent emotional outbursts or meltdowns

• Struggling with friendships or social situations

• Experiencing school avoidance or academic stress

• Showing changes in mood, confidence, or self-esteem

• Having difficulty adjusting to divorce, separation, grief, or other family changes

• Processing experiences of trauma or loss

• Exploring identity and needing a safe, affirming space to be themselves

• Finding it difficult to express their feelings in words

When children and teens are struggling, their emotions often show up through behavior, relationships, physical complaints, or changes in daily functioning. Therapy can provide a space where they feel seen, supported, and understood.

My Approach to Child & Teen Therapy

I believe that every child and teen has an inner wisdom and a natural capacity for growth and healing. My role is to create a warm, affirming relationship where they can safely explore their experiences and develop new ways of understanding themselves and the world around them.

My approach is trauma-informed, attachment-focused, and grounded in the understanding that behavior is communication. Rather than focusing solely on changing behaviors, I seek to understand what may be underneath them—the feelings, experiences, needs, and relationships that deserve attention and care.

What Therapy Looks Like for Children

Children often communicate through play, creativity, and imagination rather than words alone.

Depending on your child's age and needs, sessions may include:

• Non-directive play therapy

• Art and expressive arts activities

• Sandtray therapy

• Storytelling and imaginative play

• Mindfulness and coping skills

• Feelings identification and emotional regulation activities

• Building self-esteem and confidence

Through these experiences, children can safely process difficult emotions, strengthen coping skills, and develop a greater sense of security and self-understanding.

What Therapy Looks Like for Teens

Adolescence can be a time of significant change and self-discovery. Teens often need a space outside of family and school where they can explore their experiences without judgment.

Therapy may support teens in navigating:

• Anxiety and stress

• Identity exploration

• Friendships and social dynamics

• Family relationships

• Academic pressures

• Self-esteem and confidence

• Grief and loss

• LGBTQ+ identity and affirmation

• Life transitions and future planning

Sessions with teens are collaborative and relationship-based, offering both support and practical tools while honoring their growing independence and voice.

Working Together with Parents

Parents are an important part of the therapeutic process.

I believe children and teens experience the greatest growth when they have supportive adults alongside them. Depending on your child's age and needs, our work may include parent consultations to discuss themes that arise in therapy, strategies for supporting your child at home, and ways to strengthen connection and communication within your family.

At the same time, I carefully balance parental involvement with a child's or teen's need for privacy and a sense of safety in therapy.

A Space Where Your Child Can Be Fully Themselves

I provide an affirming and inclusive environment where children and teens of all identities are welcome. I have a special passion for supporting LGBTQ+ youth, sensitive and creative children, and young people navigating anxiety, trauma, grief, and significant life transitions.

Therapy can help children and teens feel more connected to themselves, strengthen their relationships, and develop the confidence and tools they need to navigate life's challenges.

I would be honored to support your child and family on this journey.