Child Issues

In my practice, I take a comprehensive approach to addressing child and adolescent issues by integrating cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), behavioral techniques, and parent management training. With a focus on evidence-based practices, I collaborate closely with children and adolescents to identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors contributing to their difficulties.

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.

Hi, parents! Hey, kids! I am a child & adolescent psychologist, and I love to help families learn to get along better & be better able to share a happier household. I say "families" because I've only seen children progress when their adults are involved & invested. So if you're looking for someone to drop your kid off with so that she'll "cure" them, I'm probably not the therapist for you! But if you're looking to get on the floor with us & get to work, I am ready when you are. Give me a call.

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."

When working with youth, I typically integrate Play Therapy, Strengths-Based, and Mindfulness techniques to establish a foundation for them to trust themselves and learn how to show themselves self-compassion. I love working with kiddos, preteens, and teens to help them through tough things in life and be more fully themselves.

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 work with young kids (infants, toddlers, preschoolers and kindergarterners) with behavioral and emotional difficulties.

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 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.

I have been an Infant Mental Health Specialist for 15 years. IMH focuses on supporting children from birth to 5 yrs old related to mood, behavior and attachment concerns. I work with the parent and child together in session so the parent can build confidence in parenting skills and their relationship with their young child.

With children, I use non-directive play therapy to build self-esteem and confidence as children are provided space to process and integrate their experiences. Sessions are tailored to meet the needs of the child as well as the parents. I also work with parents to explore their experiences and to support them through the challenges they are facing. Parents can expect a nonjudgmental and supportive space where we explore their concerns and ways to help support the child in and out of sessions. I i

With children, I use non-directive play therapy to build self-esteem and confidence as children are provided space to process and integrate their experiences. Sessions are tailored to meet the needs of the child as well as the parents. I also work with parents to explore their experiences and to support them through the challenges they are facing. Parents can expect a nonjudgmental and supportive space where we explore their concerns and ways to help support the child in and out of sessions. I i

Human development was a significant part of my doctoral program studies. I engaged with multiple theories on child development and received direct supervision on multiple cases from a prominent child therapist in the Chicago metro area. On top of that, I hold my work with children and families to be very important to me. It is always an honor when a family allows me into their life to join them in the ups and downs of family life.

The team at Brave Young Minds has extensive experience treating children’s mental health challenges, including emotion regulation, behavioral issues, tantrums, and meltdowns. With a deep understanding of child development, we use evidence-based techniques to help young clients express emotions and manage difficult behaviors. Our clinicians create a nurturing environment where children feel safe exploring their feelings. By working closely with families, we provide support where it matters most.

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

Your child has been struggling yet you aren't quite sure why. You have tried everything. The teachers aren't helpful because they just say the same thing over and over. Friend's don't understand, their kids seem to be perfect angels. It feels like you have done something wrong but don't know how to fix it. You have heard play therapy can be helpful but not sure how to start. Just reach out today and a therapist can guide you through this process together.