Children, Adolescents & Family

---

I work together with children and their families using the child’s symbolic language of play to resolve issues and improve the parent/ caregiver - child relationship. Through art therapy, sand tray therapy, play therapy, as well as practical behavioral and relational interventions, I support all family members to create structure; improve communication, attachment, and connection; and improve the ability of the child to get their needs met without resorting to problematic behaviors. I will collaborate with family members, schools, and other medical and behavioral providers to support the child and their family.

Issues often emerge during critical transitional times and developmental stages. Youth face numerous challenges and stressors during these times of rapid transition, growth, and identity formation. Academic, social, family, and personal stress are inherent as youth explore who they are and their own values; take risks and experiment with independence, while still living at home; or prepare to live on their own. I offer individual counseling using cognitive and art-based modalities to deepen self-understanding, improve self-esteem, reduce anxiety, and support youth in making healthy choices and setting/ achieving personal goals. I also offer family sessions, parent sessions, and collaboration with schools and other supportive resources to facilitate the youth’s attainment of treatment goals, improve connection with parents/ caregivers and other supportive adults, and promote a youth’s success in school and life. 

And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.
   ~ Anais Nin