Creating New Pathways for Children and Families
WHAT IS PLAY THERAPY
Through the play therapy process children create play that resembles the emotional experiences they are struggling with internally. These experiences usually cannot be expressed verbally. Children will select special toys to include in their play and use those toys to recreate issues that represent emotional conflicts that are important to the child. Beginning with this expression, the child’s play evolves until the child gains a sense of understanding and comfort over this situation. Research supports the effectiveness of play therapy with children experiencing: PTSD, behavioral issues, depression, impulsivity, self-esteem issues, academic difficulties, parent-child relationship struggles, social issues, anxiety, loss, divorce/separation, abuse and more… * Copyright 1998 Byron or Carol Norton
HOW IT TRANSLATES TO
ADOLESCENT SESSIONS
Adolescents tell stories to represent the emotional experience they're struggling with internally. Sometimes their experiences cannot be expressed verbally. Teens tell stories about themselves, or their peers, to relay issues that represent conflicts they are having. Over time, the conversation will give the teen an understanding and comfort with their own situation. All of this supports adopting strategies and techniques to handle themselves and their world more effectively.
PARENT CONSULTATION SESSIONS
The parenting journey is all together the most rewarding and most challenging one most of us ever embark on. While I believe no one knows your child better than you, sometimes fresh eyes can help shift your perspective just enough to change your family's dynamics. This support is my favorite part of working with children....working with the adults who love them!