Therapy for Children

Alexandria, Virginia

Let’s set your child up for success.

As a clinical social worker with over 29 years of experience and expertise in supporting children and families, I strive to provide a nurturing and supportive therapeutic environment where children can better understand their feelings, develop effective coping strategies, and flourish in every aspect of their lives. I value the uniqueness of every child and, in our therapy sessions, I will work with your child to understand their challenges, identify strengths and deficit areas, and develop therapeutic interventions to support growth, personal well-being, resilience, self-awareness, self-esteem, and family connection. I have expertise in implementing a variety of therapeutic modalities, including attachment therapy, family-based work, play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and trauma-focused interventions. I am invested in the implementation of early intervention and prevention skills and in supporting children to develop resilience and distress tolerance skills, which will support their future success.

Services

  • Play Therapy

    For children aged 3-12, play therapy promotes relationship building, trust, self expression, and open communication. Therapeutic play supports children in safely expressing and processing their feelings and experiences in a healing environment.

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

    Tailored specifically for children and adolescents, CBT addresses anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, and behavioral issues. This evidence-based method supports children in reframing negative thoughts and in developing healthier coping mechanisms.

  • Family Therapy

    Disruptive family dynamics can significantly impact a child and family’s well-being. Our family therapy sessions focus on enhancing understanding of how each family member experiences the day-to-day, understanding age-appropriate developmental stages, improving communication, fostering healthy relationships between children and their caregivers, and committing to healthy habits that will contribute to a respectful and supportive home environment.

  • Trauma-Focused Therapy

    For children who have experienced or been exposed to traumatic events, trauma-focused therapy will support your child in gaining a deeper understanding of his or her experiences and moving forward with greater emotional strength. Trauma-focused therapy will help your child develop healthy coping skills and build upon his or her self-awareness and resilience. This specialized approach offers a safe space for children to process their experiences and emotions.

  • Behavioral Therapy

    Behavioral Therapy is action-oriented and focuses on modifying negative or harmful patterns of behavior through techniques that include structure, predictability, consistency, and reinforcement strategies. This approach effectively supports children in developing improved self-regulation skills and in implementing distress tolerance skills in stressful and/or triggering situations. Behavioral therapy is often applied in supporting children who experience anxiety, depression, phobias, emotional dysregulation, behavioral issues attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADD / ADHD), and/or autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

  • Art Therapy

    Art Therapy is a creative form of therapy that helps children express themselves through drawing, painting, and via other artistic processes. It can be particularly beneficial for those who struggle with verbal communication and provides an alternative way to process and express emotions.

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Benefits of Therapy for Children

  • Enhanced Emotional Regulation and Distress Tolerance: Help your child manage his or her emotions more effectively.

  • Build Resilience: Prepare your child for future challenges and success. 

  • Improved Communication Skills: Equip your child with the tools to express him or herself more clearly and confidently.

  • Safe Space for Emotional Expression: Provide a secure environment where your child can process his or her feelings.

  • Coping Strategies for Mental Health Issues: Helps your child to gain increased awareness of his or her triggers and in developing skills to address anxiety, depression, and social-emotional challenges.

  • Healthier Family Relationships: Strengthen the bonds between family members through enhanced understanding and improved communication.

  • Targeted Behavioral Support: Assist children and adolescents in overcoming specific behavioral issues which will contribute to improved social, emotional, and academic outcomes.

  • Guidance for Caregivers and Educators: Offer valuable insights and strategies to support your child's development and mental health.

Therapy services are provided within the safety and security of my private practice office in Alexandria, VA, or via telehealth for your convenience. With over 29 years of clinical experience, I offer a confidential, compassionate, and informative therapeutic practice. I want to ensure that both your child and you feel comfortable expressing your feelings and concerns in a warm and accepting space.