Many parents have concerns with the behavior of their children, yet are unsure where to go for help. Asking for help or advice from friends and family is not always comfortable, nor is it always helpful. As a parent, you know your child better than anyone. You know the day to day reality of the challenges you face. At LifeStream Family Counseling, we can work together to combine your knowledge of your child along with my knowledge of child development, parenting strategies, and mental health concerns to help you find valuable insight. Together, we can determine areas of need with your child and develop meaningful goals. Discussing your concerns with a professional can give you some peace of mind.

With younger children, depending on the primary concerns, I may use a technique called “Non-Directive, Child-Centered Play Therapy”. In this type of therapy the child is free to play or talk in any way he or she decides. Due to the fact that young children do not have the verbal or abstract thinking skills to describe how they may be feeling, the therapist tracks the child’s activities and reflects the feelings behind the behavior or speech. Play is the language of children and in this format they are able to communicate without fear of failure or judgment. Play therapy is used with children from ages 2 to approximately 11.

With most children and adolescents I will also use a technique called “Cognitive Behavioral Therapy” – working on altering actions and thoughts to help influence feelings. I often include parents in this part of treatment, depending on the issues involved.

I look forward to discussing your child’s situation, and helping your both find a more peaceful path forward!