Jennifer Vaughan

Hi!

As a Licensed Counselor with 30 years of experience, I understand that navigating the emotional needs of children can be daunting for or both kids and their families. You are not alone! Is this a phase? Is this "normal?" Seeking support if you are unsure or are concerned about a behavior is a great first step... and shows how much you love your child. At my practice, Aardvarks & Anteaters Child Counseling, I specialize in children ages 4 - 12, who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, life changes (loss, move, divorce), behavior challenges (ADHD, oppositional-defiance), and relationship/ social issues.

I have experience with several modalities, but I tend to gravitate to the most evidence based practices and tailor my approach to the child and family. For example, a verbal, insightful, but anxious child of 11 may benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with the support of parents. A defiant 8 year old's treatment would likely involve partnership work the parents to build the unique skills in dealing with strong-willed or oppositional children. A 5 year old who has experienced a trauma would definitely benefit from play therapy.

Regardless of the approach I am a strong believer that when you are working with children, the team approach is best, so I always have the goal to partner with parents/ guardians. With older children, trust is central to the relationship, so children may not want me telling their parents every SINGLE thing disclosed in session. For therapy to work with these older kids, I walk a delicate balance: making sure everyone is communicating what is important, and trusting that we are all on "Team Child" together!

I always start with an introductory session with the parent/ caregivers only, where you can feel free to speak openly about your child and tell your story. It also gives me the opportunity to explain my approach, policies, and for you to get a sense if I will be a good fit for your family. After that session, if all goes well, our second session is my introduction to the child-- a getting-to-know-you time, where my goal is to start the process of establishing the office as a safe, nurturing space. During the third session, parents/ caregivers and I will meet again so that I can explain my impressions, note strengths I see, explain concerns I may have, and we can decide-- together--upon a course of treatment. (If your appropriate, your child may be invited to attend and participate in this session as well.) It is always my goal that the process of therapy is as completely transparent as it can be, and we work as a team.