Children

Individual therapy sessions are usually 50 minutes in length depending on the age and developmental level of the child. I prefer meeting with children every week for at least 6 weeks to give time for the therapeutic relationship to develop and to see initial symptom reduction. As symptoms reduce, sessions can be moved to every other week if preferred.

Although I use several play therapy techniques while working with children, we are never “just playing” during our sessions. Play is essential to human growth, development, learning and cultivating relationships.  Play is a natural process that:

• -  Builds trust
• -  Fosters learning and acceptable behavior 
• -  Regulates emotions
• -  Reduces anxieties
• -  Promotes creative thinking and problem-solving
• -  Encourages open and appropriate communication
• -  Elevates mood and self-esteem

Family therapy sessions are usually 50 minutes in length and occur as needed. Family sessions serve as an opportunity for families to learn and practice healthier communication skills and improve relationships with one another. They give children an opportunity to express themselves using the skills learned in individual sessions and give parents the opportunity to discuss difficult topics with their children with the help of the therapist.