Therapeutic Approach 

My therapeutic work highlights an individual’s strengths built upon a holistic approach, with an emphasis in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).  My goal is to teach my clients the skills that they need to feel more grounded when faced with life's adversities. I help guide client's towards finding awareness within themselves that help to gain insight on thought patterns that may have become upsetting or troublesome.  I regularly suggest homework, offer feedback, and customize my approach in other ways to make therapy most effective.  

 

Counseling and Your Child 

How Does Counseling Work with Children & Adolescents? 

Counseling can help children and adolescents learn how to identify causes of their distress by understanding feelings and expressing emotions, improving their problem-solving abilities, resolving conflicts with people, and trying out new solutions to old problems. My approach to child/adolescent therapy is holistic and strength-based in nature, but work with every child based on their individual needs.

 

Counseling Topics Specific to Children & Teens:

ADHD, anger management, test anxiety, social anxiety, school phobias, bullying, social skills, self-esteem

​

Why Should I Send My Child to Counseling?

Children, just like adults, experience stress. Common stressors for children include school and family issues. School stressors may include excessive or difficult homework, test anxiety, peer pressure, bullying, and learning difficulties. Family issues may include parental arguing, divorce, moving homes, new sibling, major illness, death, loss, and transitions.  If you notice a change in your child’s behavior (inattention, arguing, withdrawing) or emotions (depressed, angry, worried, stressed) and think they may need help, child/adolescent therapy may be a good resource.

​

What is the Goal of Counseling for Your Child?

Specific therapy goals are customized to meet the needs of the child and their family. Goals for therapy may be specific (change in behavior, improved relations with friends or family) or more general (less anxiety, manage anger outbursts, better self-esteem). My overall counseling goal is to help the child feel comfortable, safe, and understood.  This type of trusting environment is vital to the therapeutic process as it makes it much easier for the child to express his/her thoughts and feelings.  Through this therapeutic process children can alleviate their symptoms of distress, increase use of effective communication skills, and strengthen family, community, and peer relationships.