Counseling for Children and Teens
Children and adolescents may struggle to find words to explain their worries. Sometimes they need to use art, playdough, puppets, Legos, sandtray, or games to process thoughts. Play is a child’s first language and most haven’t mastered abstract thinking yet. A play based approach helps them develop coping skills and work through difficult concepts in a developmentally appropriate manner.
Teens are in a category all their own. Their emotions can change like the weather and they seem defiant and cocky, but also overwhelmed and anxious all at the same time. I use CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) to help teens better understand how their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are connected. Parents, I am there to support you too. I have been in your shoes!
Counseling for Adults and Life Transitions
Life is hard and doesn’t come with a playbook. Anxiety and depression are more common than you think among adults. I use CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), traditional talk therapy, and Expressive Art based approaches to help you feel more balanced. Yes, adults sometimes need to play, create collages, doodle, or move to lower their stress levels. Others feel more comfortable with traditional talk therapy.
As an educator, I understand the juggling act of working with administrators, students, staff, and parents. Sometimes that balance gets skewed causing us to feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and unproductive! I will provide a safe space for you to work through problems and find more calm and joy!
Trauma Support
Trauma can result from a wide range of experiences including abuse, accidents, violence, natural disasters, loss, or other distressing events. It can impact emotional and physical well-being causing anxiety, flashbacks, nightmares, physical issues, and problems in relationships. Backed by three decades of clinical experience and trauma training, I use TR-CBT to guide you through your personal journey toward healing.