KIDS & TEENS

Service Description

Creative, affirming therapy for children and teens using conversation, play, art, parts work, and other developmentally appropriate approaches. Kids and teens don’t always have the words to explain what’s happening inside. Anxiety, overwhelm, family changes, school stress, grief, trauma, ADHD, autism, identity questions, friendship struggles, or big emotions may show up as withdrawal, meltdowns, perfectionism, anger, people-pleasing, shutting down, or feeling like they just don’t fit. Therapy with me is not about fixing a child or forcing them to behave differently. I’m interested in understanding what may be happening underneath the behavior and helping young people feel safer, more understood, and more connected to themselves. Depending on the child or teen, sessions may include talking, play, art, games, creative activities, mindfulness, and age-appropriate IFS or “parts work.” We can get curious about the anxious part, the angry part, the part that wants to disappear, the part that works hard to make everyone happy, or the part that feels different from everyone else. I especially enjoy working with neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ young people and strive to create a space where they do not have to mask, perform, or become someone else to be accepted. When helpful, I also collaborate with parents and caregivers so we can better understand what your child may be communicating and how to support them outside the therapy room. The goal is not to create a different kid. It’s to help your child feel more understood, supported, and confident being who they are.