Child and Adolescent Therapy

We strive to be the best parents and caregivers we can be for our children and families so that they can thrive and lead happy, healthy lives. But there are endless amounts of stressors that may impact our ability to parent and care for our children and teens in the ways we may have envisioned. That is okay. We are not perfect. Challenges arise that we may not have expected. Co-parenting may become more difficult than anticipated; an unexpected loss or medical issue may impact your family’s structure; you may feel that your child’s school is unsupportive of their needs or that their behavior at school has become an issue. You may worry about their social life or their tendency to isolate; you may be trying to manage your child or teen’s disruptive or oppositional behavior, or you may simply be feeling disconnected from your child or teen. Your concerns may feel utterly overwhelming—but I am here to support you.

I support the individual, unique needs of older children and teens (11 years old and older) as a neutral, non-judgmental, and caring adult. Your child or teen may be experiencing upheaval and transition, or they may be challenged by issues around identity and belonging. These struggles may look like aggressive or oppositional behavior, or your child or teen may withdraw, isolate, or even engage in risky behaviors. I will hold the complexity of their needs and concerns in a safe and supportive environment. I will help your child or teen develop their own desires and values and understand the impact of their choices with compassion and acceptance. Children can struggle to put their experiences into words, so I utilize creative and expressive arts or play in my work. Caregiver involvement in psychotherapy treatment is an essential part of supporting your child or teen’s needs.

Every day, in 100 small ways, our children ask, ‘Do you hear me? Do you see me? Do I matter?’ Their behavior often reflects our response.
— L.R. Knost