My Approach to Helping
My area of specialty is working with parents and children on attachment, behavior challenges, and daily functioning at home and at school. Although I find that clients have the most success when the whole family is involved in therapy, I also work with teens and younger adults individually.
I aim to create a warm, supportive environment that is collaborative and based on strengths. I am here to help you, as a parent, process feelings of stress and frustration while also giving your child the tools needed to be happier and healthier. In therapy, you and your child will learn how to cope with strong emotions and how to reduce challenging behaviors. I use a combination of empathy, positive feedback, and education about differences in brain development. Many of my clients are neurodivergent (ADHD or Autistic).
More Info About My Practice
I am accepting new clients! I have openings in the afternoon (including after school) on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
It is important to make sure there is a good fit between therapist and client. I offer a free 20-30 minute phone or video consulation where we can see if I am a match for your needs.
How Psychotherapy Can Help
Here are some of the things your child may learn in therapy:
- How to calm down using techniques such as belly breaths or square breathing
- How to name and describe emotions
- How to recognize when they are near the point of being overwhelmed or out of control
- What happens to different parts of the brain when we are having strong feelings
- How to use their strengths to work with their brain rather than against it
Parents may learn:
- How to help them calm down when they are upset
- How to comfort while still having boundaries and expectations (No, they don't get everything they want just because they had a tantrum!)
- Alternatives to explaining, lecturing, and punishment that really work
- How to use positive discipline to teach your child the skills they will need to be successful in life
- How to spend time on self-care so that you're better able to cope when your child is having a rough day