Child Issues

With children, I use non-directive play therapy to build self-esteem and confidence as children are provided space to process and integrate their experiences. Sessions are tailored to meet the needs of the child as well as the parents. I also work with parents to explore their experiences and to support them through the challenges they are facing. Parents can expect a nonjudgmental and supportive space where we explore their concerns and ways to help support the child in and out of sessions. I i

When working with kids, I create a safe and playful environment to build confidence and self-discovery. With younger children. I utilize play therapy as toys and symbols are the language they use to communicate. With teens, I focus more on their personal growth, meeting them where they are at, and collaborating on goals. With both kids and teens, I tend to use what the client is interested in to assist with therapy.

At Newport Academy, we believe that true transformation occurs as our teens learn to see themselves as beautiful, bright, and powerful people who can take control of their own lives. In order to help our patients achieve that goal, we maintain the highest possible standards for our services, and commission third-party evaluations of our programming. By consistently gathering and analyzing data related to our outcomes, we’re able to make more strategic and tailored decisions for our patients.

https://www.zenzonehealth.com/childrens--services

I have been working with children under that age of 10 using play therapy and art therapy. I truly enjoy working with this population and continue to attend continued education courses to gain more information and insight on how best to work with children and their changing needs.

I serve clients across the lifespan. However, I have significant experience working with minors ages 4 to 17 in private practice, community clinics, ADHD camps, and school settings. My approach is to "keep it real" with my tiny human clientele and integrate evidence-based interventions that fit THAT client with THEIR identities in their current life situation. I prioritize strength-based approaches and help reframe client behavior from "attention-seeking" to "connection-seeking."

At Newport Academy, we believe that true transformation occurs as our teens learn to see themselves as beautiful, bright, and powerful people who can take control of their own lives. In order to help our patients achieve that goal, we maintain the highest possible standards for our services, and commission third-party evaluations of our programming. By consistently gathering and analyzing data related to our outcomes, we’re able to make more strategic and tailored decisions for our patients.

When working with youth, I typically integrate Play Therapy, Strengths-Based, and Mindfulness techniques to establish a foundation for them to trust themselves and learn how to show themselves self-compassion. I love working with kiddos, preteens, and teens to help them through tough things in life and be more fully themselves.

"Get in the game of mental health! Our video game therapy program offers a unique approach to therapy, using immersive games to help you develop coping skills, manage emotions, and improve your overall mental wellbeing."

I work with parents of children who may have a learning, attention, or behavior disorder, struggle to complete classwork and homework, are fearful of certain situations, have sleep problems, have difficulty regulating emotions and self-control, experience separation anxiety at home and school, become easily frustrated or overwhelmed, or are stubborn and defiant with adults. I offer psychoeducational/psychological evaluations, child therapy, and parent support sessions.

I help families to strengthen their connections to each other, reduce tension, and enhance the quality of their relationships. Dealing with challenging behaviors, adjusting to change, separations in the family, and simply feeling overwhelmed are common reasons families seek my support with their children. I enjoy collaborating with caregivers to troubleshoot problems and identify and implement solutions that make sense for each unique family situation.

Child/Play Therapy helps children to improve communication and interpersonal skills. It focuses on a child's interests and encourages interaction based on the child's favorite activities. Our professionals, collaborate to help children deal with emotional trauma, anxiety, grief, behavioral problems, neurological conditions and mental illness.

I have been a family therapist for close to 40 years. Much of my work has been working with families around child and adolescent issues, as well as providing family therapy supervision , consultation, and training.I am a structural family therapist, and an approved supervisor by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy ( AAMFT). My work has covered the gamut of issues that bring children into therapy from behavior problems to suicidal ideation.

I have helped countless children and their families overcome a wide range of issues. The family has to be a part of this process, as the hope is that therapy continues outside of sessions and into the homes and school.

Whether your child/teen is experiencing anxiety, disruptive behaviors, difficulties in school, or another concern, or you would like some new positive parenting strategies, I am here to support your family's growth. When working with children, I collaborate closely with their parents and caregivers in order to practice new skills outside of therapy.

We treat and evaluate a large range of child issues including developmental disorders (Autism Spectrum Disorder), anxiety, video game addictions, ADHD, anger management/emotional regulation, parenting strategies, and depression.