Child Issues

Parenting instincts are built in—shaped by evolution to protect and guide our kids. But sometimes, what feels like common sense just doesn’t work... or makes things worse. That’s where therapy can help. Through evidence-based approaches like parent management training, caregivers can learn new ways to manage behavior, reduce anxiety without enabling it, and reconnect with their child in more positive, effective ways.

In addition to my private practice, I have worked part-time at schools since 2013. I absolutely love working with kids and teens. I see that our kids are speaking to us but not always with words. Sometimes they hurt themselves or others or they withdraw or shut down. Some yell and get angry for no apparent reason. Others are so sensitive that they cry at the drop of a hat. In therapy, we listen to what these symptoms are really saying to us, so we can respond wisely.

Anxiety Depression ADHD Mild Autism Anger Control Avoidance Obsessive/Compulsive Behavior Impulse Control Learning Problems Organization Low Self-Esteem School Refusal Bullying Resistant/Oppositional Behavior Social Awareness and Communication Problem-Solving Giftedness and Twice-Exceptional

The children I work with struggle with a range of issues including tantrums, anger management, trauma, anxiety, depression, and emotion regulation. In therapy I focus on the child's strengths as well as their struggles. I use a child-directed play therapy model which teaches children emotion regulation tools through modeling. Parent involvement is vital to a child's success in therapy and I include parents in the therapy process through coaching and parent-child interaction therapy.

I work with children ages 4 and up in my practice. As a systemic provider, I also involve the caregivers of my clients in our work throughout treatment. I utilize play, art, and books in my approach.

I am a certified Parent Child Interaction Therapist (PCIT). Specifically, my expertise is with children ages 2-7 who are experiencing behavioral difficulties and children with anxiety ages 3-9. I work directly with the parent via live coaching. This offers a unique experience for the parent in learning in the moment with my support how to effectively manage their child's behavior or anxiety.

I serve clients across the lifespan. However, I have significant experience working with minors ages 4 to 17 in private practice, community clinics, ADHD camps, and school settings. My approach is to "keep it real" with my tiny human clientele and integrate evidence-based interventions that fit THAT client with THEIR identities in their current life situation. I prioritize strength-based approaches and help reframe client behavior from "attention-seeking" to "connection-seeking."

I spent the early years of my career providing mental health services in preschools and elementary schools. I am well-versed in treatment methods suited for children, and addressed a range of presenting problems including anxiety, depression, PTSD and other trauma, attachment issues, in addition to various behavioral difficulties. I worked with the children themselves, and provided consultation to teachers, school staff, and parents/caregivers.

If being a parent is difficult, being a kid is near impossible today. I am passionate about working with children and adolescents in close collaboration with parents/care-givers to assist in a myriad of issues, including anxiety, depression, school avoidance, bullying, self-esteem, divorce, co-parenting, and trauma. I utilize a unique combination of interactive play therapy, relational therapy, and EMDR (if appropriate) in order to give your child the most effective therapy experience.

I utilize play therapy and sand tray therapy to create a comfortable and fun environment where children are able to express and explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without facing the pressure of needing to understand or verbalize these things. With limited life experience and verbal repertoires, traditional talk therapy is difficult and frustrating for children.

I understand that children face unique challenges when dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and self-esteem issues. My goal is to create a warm, safe, and supportive space where children ages 6 and up can express themselves freely and feel heard. Through creative play, art, and age-appropriate conversations, I help children navigate their emotions, build resilience, and develop coping skills. Together, we work to foster a sense of self-worth, healing, and hope.

Children’s behaviors show us if their needs are met or unmet. It may be the need to be heard, to be seen, to be held more, or to be given more space to grow. Play, movement, art, and visualization can be very helpful for children. Samantha is very adept at creative interventions. She will also give your child, kid friendly mind-body-energy tools, that are supportive at various stages of development.

I am a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) and love working with children. I have worked with children and their families for over 10 years in a variety of settings over the years. Play therapy is always such a unique way of connecting with children and seeing them grow through various struggles. My goal is to empower each child to thrive by creating interventions to their unique needs and strengths.

Anxiety Depression ADHD Mild Autism Anger Control Avoidance Obsessive/Compulsive Behavior Impulse Control Learning Problems Organization Low Self-Esteem School Refusal Bullying/Cyberbullying Resistant/Oppositional Behavior Social Awareness and Communication Problem-Solving Giftedness and Twice-Exceptional

I work with children and teens, recognizing that early experiences can shape lifelong mental health. By incorporating play therapy and art therapy, I create developmentally appropriate spaces for young clients to express, heal, and process their emotions. My goal is to support them in building resilience and emotional well-being, ensuring they have the tools to navigate life's challenges both now and in the future.

Kiddos and families can regain harmony in the household when big transitions make it difficult to see hope.

Your child is your greatest responsibility—and when something feels off, you need expert support you can trust. Whether it’s a major life change or persistent behaviors with no clear cause, talk therapy alone won’t cut it. In my playroom, talking is optional. Through targeted, evidence‑based play interventions, we’ll soften tantrums, reduce nightmares, and boost your child’s confidence—helping your whole family find peace. Let’s help your child thrive.

Anxiety Depression ADHD Mild Autism Anger Control Avoidance Obsessive/Compulsive Behavior Impulse Control Learning Problems Organization Low Self-Esteem School Refusal Bullying/Cyberbullying Resistant/Oppositional Behavior Social Awareness and Communication Problem-Solving Giftedness and Twice-Exceptional

We offer child-centered play therapy, art therapy, and child parent relationship therapy and PCIT.