"Ms. Yvette has helped me how to control my anger, she has taught me how to separate/split my homework so, I didn't get confused. She helped me with my anger by showing me ways I can avoid problems that I know will get me angry. For example, Ms. Yvette told me to just walk away, ignore and breath in and out. She has really helped me cope with school and staying organized by teaching me how to prioritize my work so, I didn't get discouraged about finishing it. I recommend Ms. Yvette because she is kind and I feel like she listens to me and really cares about me by helping me. These are ways that she helps me and I thank Ms. Yvette so much". Nate, 16
"Ms. Yvette has helped me by showing and guiding me to understand the aspects of my anxiety and anorexia. She has helped me understand how to deal with and treat these psychological conditions. I have learned that I am the only one who matters to me." Angelica, 17
Therapy for these age groups look different than they would for adults simply because developmentally they are different. Younger children respond especially well to play therapy because they are doing what they like and alot can be communicated about their thoughts and feelings through how they play. Play is our first language, Just as adults use words to communicate, children use play. When playing, we express thoughts and feelings that might otherwise remain hidden. So, when you ask your child what they did in therapy don't be surprised to hear that they played.
Unfortunately, many Adolescents are faced with stressors that were unheard of when we were growing up and as a result youngsters are developing mental health issues at younger ages. I find that play therapy helps to build rapport with adolescents and in turn they start feeling comfortable and eventually will start sharing their feelings and stressors.
Areas of treatment for Children and Adolescents:
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Trauma
- Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Self-Esteem
- Friendship Issues
- Bullying
- Childhood Behavioral Disorders
- Oppositional Defiant Disorders
- Adjustment Disorders