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A young girl drawing with crayons in a bright playroom

Therapy

Therapy for Children

Play-based, practical therapy for children as young as 3, with parents involved so what helps in the session also works at home.

How children show they are struggling

Young children rarely say they are anxious or sad. They show it: tantrums, clinging, trouble sleeping, stomach aches, aggression, or a sudden dislike of school. Therapy gives them a way to work through feelings with play, drawing and practice, at a level that makes sense to them.

What we help children with

  • Big emotions and meltdowns
  • Anxiety and fears
  • ADHD symptoms and impulsivity
  • Autism-related challenges and social skills
  • Behavior at home or school
  • Grief, divorce and family changes
  • Self-esteem
  • Adjusting after a move or new school

What sessions look like

  1. 1.

    Parent intake

    We start with parents to understand history and concerns.

  2. 2.

    Getting to know your child

    Early sessions build trust through play and conversation.

  3. 3.

    Skills through play

    Children practice calming, naming feelings and solving problems.

  4. 4.

    Parent coaching

    You learn what to say and do at home, and we check in regularly.

Ages and clinicians

Nikki Holmes sees children from age 3, Michelle Mitchell from age 4, Naim Karabanoff from age 6 with evening and weekend times, and Diana Cantu sees all ages in English or Spanish. Dr. Sneha Desai sees children 8 and up by telehealth.

When testing helps

If you are wondering about ADHD, autism or a learning difference, our testing team can evaluate your child and give you a written report to share with the school.

Questions

Will I be in the session?

Often at the start and end, and sometimes for the whole session with young children.

Do you offer evening or weekend times?

Yes, including weekends with Naim Karabanoff.

Preparing your child

Tell your child they are going to meet someone whose job is to help kids with feelings and worries, and that there will be toys and drawing. Keep it simple and calm. Bring any school notes or reports that help explain what you are seeing at home.

How progress shows up

Parents usually notice fewer or shorter meltdowns, easier mornings and bedtimes, and a child who can name what they feel. Your therapist will check in with you regularly about what is changing at home and at school.

Find a therapist for your child

Use Find a Clinician to filter by age, or call 832-876-3232.