Diagnostic Evaluation takes place over two sessions. In the first session, I meet with parents to obtain a detailed history of their child's symptoms, development, family, academic performance, relationships and other relevant issues. During the second session, I interview their child to obtain further history, assess symptoms and gain his or her perspective on treatment needs. I may ask parents and adolescents to complete questionnaires, and I generally contact teachers or other service providers for additional information.

Play Therapy is the most effective approach for young children because they are developmentally unable to sit and discuss their problems at length. I use therapeutic play activities to interact with children about their problems and worries. Through directed symbolic play, children are able to express their feelings, understand the issues that brought them to therapy and learn how to use words rather than behavior to deal with their concerns.

Individual Therapy for older children and adolescents is more focused on discussing their symptoms and daily problems, changing their negative beliefs about themselves and others, and developing problem-solving and coping strategies to address their treatment needs. I also use games, art activities and other structured activities to facilitate communication and learning.

Family Therapy is used to enhance a child's individual treatment, facilitate parent-child communication, address issues with siblings and improve family relationships. Although I do not provide marriage counseling, I do meet with parents and step-parents to discuss co-parenting concerns.

Parent Counseling for adults whose children are not in treatment with me is focused on improving parenting knowledge and skills. For more information, see the Parenting Issues page.