The child who needs love the most will show it in the most unloving of ways.
Children are not equipped to verbally express themselves and emotionally regulate. They need our help to do this. But that is hard to do for adults when the child is acting out, refusing to go to school, and saying the meanest things.
Oftentimes, children and families come to me for help once things have gotten really bad. This could look like constant complaints from schools, nightly arguments between child and parent, and sibling fights that have turned physical. But let’s say you are wanting to get the tools BEFORE it gets that bad.
I can help with this too!
Therapists specializing in treatment for children and adolescents believe that play is the best way to reach the child and develop healthy communication and self control. This is what I do to help children and families get back on track.
Watch this video to see a cute explanation as to why we use play as a way to get kids to work through their problems and figure out healthier ways of communicating their needs.
Now that you understand why play is necessary to help your child, let me tell you more about me so you can also know why I am the best therapist option for you, your child, and your family.
I enjoy spending time with my family, playing the drums, and have the coolest Nike collection…ever. I am also an animal lover. Before working at Unity, I worked in the Youth Program at Offutt Air Force Base since 2001, where I found my passion for working with children and families.
As a therapist, I work with elementary, middle school and high school age groups using play therapy techniques in our play room that is designed to help children play through difficult things. Sometimes adults think it ‘just looks like we are playing’ but we use strategic games, art, and activities that strengthens and enriches the lives of each client. I also use an approach to therapy that allows me to customize treatment methods to meet the needs of each child and family.
When working with me, your child and family can look forward to learning:
More about yourselves
More about your relationships with others
Healthy communication strategies
Emotions and how to control them
Improved behavior techniques
Better problem solving skills
How to use attachment and attunement to relate to others
If you’re tired and frustrated and tired of being frustrated, I can help!
“Enter into children’s play and you will find the place where their minds, hearts, and souls meet.”
– Virginia Axline
Legal Information and Credentials
- I have a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Bachelor’s Degree in Behavioral Science from Bellevue University.
- I am a Provisionally Licensed Mental Health Provider in Nebraska (PLMHP), license # 13208.
- I am under supervision of Corina Maher (LIMHP, CPC, LMHC, RPT), license # 2385. If you have any questions about this process, you can contact her directly at corina.maher@unityyfs.com with any questions or concerns.
- I am trauma informed, LGBTQ+ friendly, and am aware of neurodiverse needs.
If you need any other information, please contact me. If you feel like someone else in the clinic would be a better fit, please reach out to one of our amazing therapists! Or if you would like more options, I would be happy to help you find the therapist you need.
Want a free consult or more information?