Child Issues

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

I have experience working with children and adolescents of all ages for various concerns (e.g., behavior, anxiety, adjustment). However, at this time I primarily focus my work on working with younger children and their parents. I am a certified PCIT therapist, a specialized therapy that works with the parent and child (ages 2-6) together to address behaviors or attachment needs. I will also take on select therapy cases for children or adolescents dealing with acute or chronic illnesses.

Human development was a significant part of my doctoral program studies. I engaged with multiple theories on child development and received direct supervision on multiple cases from a prominent child therapist in the Chicago metro area. On top of that, I hold my work with children and families to be very important to me. It is always an honor when a family allows me into their life to join them in the ups and downs of family life.

Anxiety Depression ADHD Mild Autism Anger Control Avoidance Obsessive/Compulsive Behavior Impulse Control Learning Problems Organization Low Self-Esteem School Refusal Bullying/Cyberbullying Resistant/Oppositional Behavior Social Awareness and Communication Problem-Solving Giftedness and Twice-Exceptional

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.

I am certified in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), which is an evidence-based treatment for children ages 2-7 who display externalizing behavioral issues. Children who throw tantrums, don't listen, struggle with attention, and show attention-seeking behavioral issues would be a good fit for this. Additionally, I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

Anxiety Depression ADHD Mild Autism Anger Control Avoidance Obsessive/Compulsive Behavior Impulse Control Learning Problems Organization Low Self-Esteem School Refusal Resistant/Oppositional Behavior Social Awareness and Communication Problem-Solving Giftedness and Twice-Exceptional

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 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.

When working with kids with big emotions I use a child-centered play therapy approach. Sometimes our emotions are so BIG we cannot even talk about them. Play therapy is beneficial for kids of all ages! I inspire healing through the therapeutic powers of play. I employ art, sand tray, and storytelling techniques to help gain emotional regulation, process major events, build coping skills, and foster resilience.

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

Anxiety Depression ADHD Mild Autism Anger Control Avoidance Obsessive/Compulsive Behavior Impulse Control Learning Problems Organization Low Self-Esteem School Refusal Resistant/Oppositional Behavior Social Awareness and Communication Problem-Solving Giftedness and Twice-Exceptional Sibling Rivalry

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."

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

I have a play therapy certificate and help children, adolescents, and teenagers who are struggling with emotional regulation, school issues, social issues, family issues. I utilize cognitive behavioral and child-centered play therapy techniques in my approach to treatment.