As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified School Counselor with nine years of experience, I’ve dedicated my career to supporting children and teens navigating the complexities of mental, behavioral, academic, and emotional well-being. My approach is rooted in creating a safe and nurturing space where young clients feel understood, accepted, and empowered. It’s about more than just clinical skills; it’s about genuine connection.
One of the major cornerstones of well-being is processing and dealing with our past traumas.
Understanding and Coping with Trauma
Trauma can significantly impact a child’s emotional and mental health. Therapy provides a safe space to process these experiences, develop coping mechanisms, and build resilience. Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) is often employed, allowing individuals to understand the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to the traumatic event.
Managing Stress, Anger, Anxiety, and Depression
These emotional challenges are increasingly common among children and teens. Learning effective coping strategies is crucial. This may involve relaxation techniques, mindfulness exercises, and cognitive restructuring to challenge negative thought patterns. Therapy can equip young people with the tools to navigate these difficult emotions.
Building Self-Esteem and Self-Advocacy Skills
A strong sense of self-worth is vital for overall well-being. Therapy can help children identify their strengths, challenge negative self-beliefs, and develop confidence. Self-advocacy skills empower them to express their needs and opinions assertively and respectfully.
Practicing Social and Friend-Making Skills
Social connections are essential for emotional health. Therapy can provide opportunities to practice social skills, learn how to build and maintain healthy relationships, and address social anxiety or difficulties in making friends. Role-playing, social stories, and group activities can be valuable tools.
Expanding Emotional Awareness
Understanding and identifying emotions is a fundamental aspect of emotional intelligence. Therapy helps children develop a greater awareness of their own feelings and the feelings of others. This can improve communication, empathy, and emotional regulation.
Improving Communication
Effective communication is crucial for healthy relationships and overall well-being. Therapy can help children develop communication skills, including active listening, assertive communication, and conflict resolution. This can improve their ability to express their needs and navigate interpersonal challenges.
Exploring Identity
Adolescence is a time of significant identity exploration. Therapy provides a safe space for teens to explore their values, beliefs, and interests. This can help them develop a stronger sense of self and make informed decisions about their future.
Softening the Blow: A Supportive Approach
My “why,” as Garry Landreth beautifully puts it, is to “soften the blow.” I cannot eliminate the challenges life throws at children, but I can offer unwavering support, understanding, and guidance as they navigate their journeys. Creating a safe, accepting, and empowering therapeutic environment is at the heart of my practice, guiding children and their families toward improved well-being.
