Play Therapy
When you’re worried about your child
Maybe your child has been having a hard time at school, getting upset more easily, or acting differently, and you’re not sure why. You’ve tried talking with them, but you’re getting “I don’t know” or not much of an answer.
You don’t have to know exactly what’s wrong to reach out. We can start with what you’ve been noticing.
What our time together looks like
With kids, therapy often happens through art, games, and play. I get to know your child and what interests them, using those interests to help them feel comfortable and involved in our time together.
I follow their lead while offering support and gentle challenges when they’re ready. Play gives children a way to express feelings, work through difficult experiences, and practice things like handling frustration, solving problems, and asking for what they need.
I’ve worked with kids and families for many years, in several different settings. Getting to know your child as a person is an important part of understanding how to help.
What I Can Help With
Worry and Anxiety
Maybe your child worries about getting things wrong, needs a lot of reassurance, or has a hard time being away from you. Bedtime or going to school may have become a struggle.
We can work on helping your child share what’s worrying them, recognize when those feelings are building, and practice ways to handle them. We’ll also talk about how you can support them during those moments.
Big Feelings and Difficult Behaviors
Small frustrations can turn into big reactions. You may find yourself repeating directions, dealing with arguments, or wondering why something that went fine yesterday feels impossible today.
I work with you and your child to understand what’s happening. Through play, we can practice handling disappointment, expressing anger, taking turns, and asking for help. We’ll also talk about what might make things easier at home.
ADHD
Your child may have a hard time getting started, staying with a task, remembering directions, or slowing down before reacting. Being corrected often can be frustrating for them—and figuring out how to help can be frustrating for you, too.
We can work on those everyday challenges through activities that keep your child involved. With parents, I can help think through routines, expectations, and ways to offer support. Along the way, I want your child to recognize their strengths, too.
Difficult Experiences, Loss, and Change
A death in the family, a frightening experience, divorce, or other changes can leave kids with feelings they don’t know how to explain. You might notice changes in their behavior, play, sleep, or willingness to be away from you.
We’ll give your child time to get comfortable and ways to express what they’re experiencing. They won’t be expected to sit down and tell me everything that happened. We can begin with what they’re ready to share.
Parents Are Part of the Process, Too
You know your child in ways I don’t. What you’re noticing at home and school helps me understand what they may need.
Parents are often involved in our work. We’ll talk about what’s been difficult, what you’ve already tried, and ways you can support your child between sessions. There’s room for your questions, too.
If you’re wondering whether therapy might help your child, you’re welcome to reach out. We can talk about what’s going on and where to start.
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