I have an undergraduate degree in teaching, a graduate degree in social work, and many specialized trainings in play therapy, parenting, and trauma. Over the years, I have worked with children and families in multiple settings including schools, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, private practice, and specialized organizations such as a foster care/adoption agency and Children’s Advocacy Center for children who have been abused.
Whether it's big feelings or behaviors they can’t control or struggling with sadness, anxiety, or stress, I listen without judgement, teach ways to identify and cope with these emotions and help navigate the struggles they are facing.
I use play therapy along with teaching parenting skills as well as psychotherapy. This empowers the child by being in a safe place using "their language" and empowers the caregiver by having the tools necessary to help with connection before correction.
Parents looking for my help often report feeling disconnected from their teens or struggling with their child's behaviors. I work to build a bridge between the child/adolescent and the parents or caregivers. My work with teens often focuses on building and rebuilding trust within the family. I teach fair fighting, making compromises, and reducing the power struggle. Parents leave with tools to feel successful at home.
