It is important to note that when working with children, it is my belief that parental involvement in the therapeutic process is essential for real long-term change in a child’s symptoms. Parents and clients will often be given activities to complete or tasks to practice in the home, school, or social environment in-between sessions. This allows us to better understand the child’s progress. Often with children, I use play therapy, games or music as a way to connect with them. It is not uncommon for children to have a difficult time sitting and talking face- to- face with an adult, so I often engage in an activity with them as a way to build rapport. These activities allow them to express their feelings beyond just verbal expression

Some of the common issues that children struggle with are as follows:

  • Anxiety
  • Peer issues
  • Behavior problems in the home and/ or school setting
  • Anger management/aggression towards others
  • Sleep issues
  • Enuresis
  • Dealing with parent’s divorce
  • Lack of appropriate social skills
  • Defiance with authority figures
  • Attention issues
  • Sadness/ isolating behaviors
  • Difficulties with emotional expression
  • Trauma