Even children that come from a loving home can struggle with emotional or social issues.  It's difficult to see our children struggle with emotions, low self-esteem, or school.  Therapy for younger children will involve some sort of play.  The psychotherapist can observe the child's orientation to play in order to access communication that is usually not expressed with formal communication.  The psychotherapist's toys are carefully selected to engage each child and give them an outlet to explore and express feelings in their language of play.  Older children and teenager sessions will usually involve some play, art, or other expressive art, such as writing, in order to engage the child.  As the child develops, more cognitive skills can be used in psychotherapy.  Family and parenting sessions with the psychotherapist are normal and required for caregiver support, encouragement, connection and education.  Typically, a parent will be required to meet with the psychotherapist, with or without the child, every 2-3 sessions.

In addition to Play Therapy, other modalities will be utilized depending on the needs of the child and family.

If your child is having any of the following challenges then additional support could be helpful:

​Academic or school difficulties
Anger toward others
Anxiety
Chronic rebelliousness or disregard for others
Chronic fear
Depression
Difficulties with peer or sibling relationships
Difficulties eating or sleeping
Frequent lying
Preoccupation with loss
Trauma
Nightmares

Some Psychotherapy Modalities Used with Children and Adolescents
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Play Therapy

TF-CBT

Family Therapy