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As I have listened to parent's describe their children's problematic behaviors, my heart goes out to them. They get worn out by constant temper tantrums or feel aggravated by the constant interruptions during conversations. Other times, parents see their kids grades drop or see them withdraw to their rooms and isolate themselves. It is quite common for a parent to feel disappointed or angry and lose patience with their child.

What Works Best with Young Children

Young children do not have the language skills to fully describe their problems. So in order to best help your child, I use a very different approach than I do for teenagers.

A Seemingly Simple, but Innovative Approach

Instead of trying to pry information out of kids through a series of questions, I apply what young kids do best. Play! I offer a selection of games and toys in our children's room that was designed especially for children. Your child selects a toy of their choice. Next, I observe your child's mannerisms, expressions and they unknowingly reveal valuable information about themselves. The information is used to diagnose and treat their presenting problems. It is amazing how children can process through grief, difficult emotions and end up reducing negative symptoms. This approach has been clinically proven to be effective with children!

The Tween Years (10 thru 12 years of age)

As young children hit their tween years, they have more verbal skills and often times it is best to use a combination of talking and play therapy.

Benefits of Counseling:

• Reduce or eliminate unwanted or risky behaviors
• Improved grades and concentration
• Learn tools like reading your child's play to better help them.
• A calmer home life as negative symptoms go away
• A more confident child
• A better social life
• A reduction in negative emotions like anger or crying

I have seen young children several times a week for years at my job and chances are, I have dealt with a situation very similar to yours. Every problem is different, so I conduct thorough assessments to fine-tune the treatment needed for each child.

Contact Lillian