Childhood Development
It is a joy for me to work with children and their families. Young clients quickly learn that I'm a big fan of Pixar's "Inside Out" movies, and we often use the emotion characters (through dolls and play) to develop insight, self-awareness, and emotional regulation skills. I particularly enjoy the skill-building and psychoeducational aspects of youth work, especially as children grow and mature.
Whenever possible and appropriate, I actively engage parents and caregivers in the therapeutic process, particularly when working with children ages 12 and under. While I don't provide formal assessments, I screen for potential neurodevelopmental and learning challenges, making referrals for comprehensive evaluations when needed. I also collaborate closely with school services, including IEP teams, to ensure consistent support across environments.
One of the most meaningful aspects of my work is creating opportunities for children to experience secure emotional attachments early in life—a foundation that can positively influence their relationships and well-being for years to come.