From a psychoanalytic framework, I specialize in helping children ages 3 to twelve navigate anxiety, attachment struggles, behavioral challenges, depression, and trauma. My goal is to help them find connection, balance, and relief through therapeutic exploration and understanding.

If your child struggles emotionally, you know with every fiber of your being that life can feel incredibly challenging. You understand the days and nights that seem unmanageable and hopeless. But there is hope. You can find balance, connection, and enjoyment with your child. Therapy can help you and your child manage those big, difficult emotions and discover better ways of coping and connecting with one another.

My Approach and Framework:

Psychodynamic Non-Directive Play Therapy is a therapeutic approach designed to help children explore and understand their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in a safe and supportive environment. This method is grounded in psychoanalytic principles, focusing on the unconscious processes that influence a child's emotional and psychological development. It is highly focused on the relationship between therapist and patient, building a trusting foundation from where connection and play can take place.

Unstructured Play: Children lead the play sessions, choosing how they want to engage with the toys and materials provided. This unstructured play is crucial for allowing the child's unconscious thoughts and emotions to surface. A wide variety of toys, including Legos, dolls, action figures, animals, and more, will be offered as mediums for communication. The therapist will join in the play if the child invites them, or alternatively, observe, offering reflective comments and questions to deepen trust, the therapeutic work and enhance understanding of the child's mind, conflicts, and struggles.

  1. Therapeutic Alliance: Building a strong, trusting relationship between the therapist and the child is fundamental. This alliance provides a secure base from which the child can explore their emotions and experiences.

  2. Symbolic Expression: Through play, children can symbolically express their fears, anxieties, and conflicts. This symbolic expression helps the therapist understand the child's inner world and the unconscious processes at play.

  3. Emotional Exploration: The therapist observes and gently guides the child to explore their emotions and behaviors. This exploration can lead to insights and a deeper understanding of the child's emotional life.

  4. Safe Environment: The therapy room is a safe and accepting space where children can express themselves without fear of judgment or criticism. This safety is essential for fostering emotional growth and healing.

Benefits of Psychodynamic Non-Directive Play Therapy:

  • Emotional Regulation: Helps children learn to manage and regulate their emotions effectively.

  • Self-Expression: Encourages children to express their thoughts and feelings in a healthy way.

  • Insight and Understanding: Provides insights into unconscious processes that influence behavior and emotions.

  • Healing from Trauma: Offers a safe space for children to process and heal from traumatic experiences.

  • Improved Relationships: Enhances the child's ability to form connections, secure attachments and healthy relationships.

Who Can Benefit?

Psychodynamic Non-Directive Play Therapy is particularly effective for children ages 3 to ten who are dealing with:

  • Anxiety

  • ADHD

  • Attachment disruptions

  • Behavioral challenges

  • Depression

  • Social Challenges

  • Sexual Abuse

  • PTSD and More

How to Get Started:

If you believe your child could benefit from this type of Play Therapy, please contact me to schedule a free 15 minute consultation. I am here to support your child's emotional and psychological well-being, helping them find balance, connection, and relief.