Child Issues

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."

Our providers work with children 11 years of age and up. We are able to provide both therapy and medication evaluations and treatment.

Your child has been struggling yet you aren't quite sure why. You have tried everything. The teachers aren't helpful because they just say the same thing over and over. Friend's don't understand, their kids seem to be perfect angels. It feels like you have done something wrong but don't know how to fix it. You have heard play therapy can be helpful but not sure how to start. Just reach out today and a therapist can guide you through this process together.

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 been an Infant Mental Health Specialist for 15 years. IMH focuses on supporting children from birth to 5 yrs old related to mood, behavior and attachment concerns. I work with the parent and child together in session so the parent can build confidence in parenting skills and their relationship with their young child.

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.

I work with children with both diagnosed difficulties as well as life stressors. I focus on creating a safe environment where a trusting relationship can help instill change. I utilize play, cognitive-behavioral approaches, EMDR, and strength-based approaches in my work with children.

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.

As children grow, they go through many mood and behavior changes. Although these changes can be difficult – both for the children and for the caregivers – they are usually normal, predictable and no cause for concern. However, when a child is having trouble at home, school or with friends, or is struggling to process a routine or traumatic event (for example the birth of a sibling, death of a loved one, bullying, or abuse), the help a professional may be needed.

Children’s behaviors show us if their needs are met or unmet. It may be the need to be heard, to be seen, to be held more, or to be given more space to grow. Play, movement, art, and visualization can be very helpful for children. Samantha is very adept at creative interventions. She will also give your child, kid friendly mind-body-energy tools, that are supportive at various stages of development.

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.

I utilize play therapy and sand tray therapy to create a comfortable and fun environment where children are able to express and explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without facing the pressure of needing to understand or verbalize these things. With limited life experience and verbal repertoires, traditional talk therapy is difficult and frustrating for children.

As a parent, there is nothing more challenging than watching your child suffer. If your child is struggling with anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, friendship issues, OCD, divorce, grief or one of the many other challenges that childhood can bring, I would be honored to help you and your family.

Kiddos and families can regain harmony in the household when big transitions make it difficult to see hope.

I am a child and family psychologist with over 10 years of experience as a specialist in this area. I work with all ages but love working with school-aged kids, teenagers, families, and parents.

If being a parent is difficult, being a kid is near impossible today. I am passionate about working with children and adolescents in close collaboration with parents/care-givers to assist in a myriad of issues, including anxiety, depression, school avoidance, bullying, self-esteem, divorce, co-parenting, and trauma. I utilize a unique combination of interactive play therapy, relational therapy, and EMDR (if appropriate) in order to give your child the most effective therapy experience.