Play therapy is an evidence-based and highly effective approach to counseling that is founded on the belief that play is the natural way children communicate and learn. Play therapy uses a variety of toys, art materials, games, and other play media. 

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Developmentally, children express themselves, learn new things, and gain mastery of specific skills through their play. Play is a child’s native language, and the toys become their words. Play for children is just as important as eating well, learning how to read and solve math problems, and getting lots of rest. When given an environment in which the child feels safe, valued, and understood, play therapy provides opportunities for the child to process through tough experiences, increase self-esteem, practice new ways of behaving, and discover innate abilities. 

My approach to working with children is both directive and non-directive, which means there may be times when I allow your child to lead the play. Other times I may plan specific activities that we will do together with the purpose of teaching and practicing new skills. Learning ways to proactively navigate through potential future challenges is also an important part of the work I do with children, adolescents, and families.

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For more information about play therapy, please visit the Association for Play Therapy website.

Parenting is tough, and kids don't come with "how-to" manuals.  You may have days where you feel at a loss of how to best support, guide, and connect with your child or teen.  Maybe you feel discouraged about how to respond to a new a behavior your child is exhibiting.  Or perhaps you are just looking for some additional tools to help build resilient kids who thrive.  You are not alone.

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When I work with children, I invite parents and caregivers to be as involved in the treatment process as possible so together, we can work toward creating lasting change.  Children benefit most when their parents and other family members actively participate in counseling.  Through the course of treatment, there may be times when I will meet with families altogether, and other times I will have sessions with only parents or only with your child. 

My hope is to offer support for you in the journey of raising kids.

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I aspire to meet you wherever you are in your life journey. It is my hope that through our work together, you will feel valued, understood, and heard. My goal is to create a safe space so you feel comfortable exploring the concerns that led you to seek counseling. I believe that as people, we are comprised of psychological, physiological, relational, and spiritual aspects, and counseling will involve a holistic exploration of how all of these areas are interconnected. Together, we will create goals to help you work toward lasting change.