Parker Jacobs

To date, I have worked with many families who are currently or have gone through the process of divorce. Oftentimes, this can come with a variety of challenges between all parties. When working with their children, it is important to allow them, whichever way possible, to voice their feelings toward these changes. For younger children, play therapy is a beneficial tool because oftentimes, the therapist can pick up on hidden messages as to what the client may be feeling at that time.

I am still "young enough" to be up-to-date on current trends/issues that affect teenagers. Having said that, there are a variety of challenges that are being navigated through including physical, emotional, social, and psychological development. Adolescents also begin to discover who they are and will try different things that will potentially satisfy a desire. This is also a period where they begin to develop more independence from their parents while still having a secure relationship.

As someone who has gone through grief myself on a personal level, it took time to navigate through the five stages. With clients, it does not necessarily have to be a loss of a person, but rather a loss of a relationship (loss of a family relationship). There will be different feelings that come up, and it will be on the client's terms as they navigate through the stages. As a therapist, there are different coping skills that I provide that will benefit the client as they honor the memories.

Currently, I mainly work with younger populations. I believe that using play therapy benefits the client in that it develops rapport between the client and therapist. It also provides a safe space for clients to be able to play out or talk about big feelings without outside pressure. Oftentimes, the therapist will find themes that are showcased during play, and will determine the meaning behind such actions. The main thing is ensuring our professional relationship is solely based on trust/safety

Currently, I mainly work with younger populations. I believe that using play therapy benefits the client in that it develops rapport between the client and therapist. It also provides a safe space for clients to be able to play out or talk about big feelings without outside pressure. Oftentimes, the therapist will find themes that are showcased during play, and will determine the meaning behind such actions. The main thing is ensuring our professional relationship is solely based on trust/safety

This treatment modality is what I mainly utilize when working with clients. I believe that the best way to create positive change is to discover negative thoughts/behaviors and unpack what it means, and the impact it has on one's life. Once discovered, the therapist then can develop healthy coping skills, that fit the clients' worldview. These skills will benefit them long-term in the event that the client faces adverse situations.

I also utilize this approach when working with my clients. Oftentimes, there are behavior concerns that lead me to use this approach. First, I would discover what the behaviors are, their origins, and their impact on a client's daily life. Then, I will develop techniques to use with them to be able to improve social skills, emotional regulation, and more.