Welcome to my page! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years experience working with children and families in social work and mental health services. Most recently, I have been at Back on Track in a playroom setting, utilizing expressive therapy techniques of play, art, music and sandtray. Sometimes I also incorporate games and children's books. I work with children, teens and families. I can also provide CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and DBT Skills training. In seeking to meet the needs of each client, I make every effort to utilize techniques customized to the age and developmental level of the child. Separate and/or joint parent sessions are interspersed throughout my individual work with the child, for best outcomes for the whole family.
My favorite modalities are child-centered/child-directed play therapy and sandtray therapy. Below are some of the benefits of these types of therapies:
Facilitates communication: expressing oneself verbally and/or non-verbally in play, sand and art.
Fosters emotional wellness: positive emotions, frustration tolerance, learning to identify and express emotions.
Increases personal strengths: creative problem-solving, resiliency, self-control, self-esteem, self-efficacy, taking responsibility for behavior.
Enhances social relationships: attachment, social skills, communication, empathy, respect for self and others.
(from Schaefer, CE & Drewes, AA (2014) The therapeutic powers of play.)
I am in-network with Anthem/Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Aetna, and Optum/United Healthcare. I can also do self-pay. Those rates are $200 for the initial parent intake appointment and $125 per regular session. The sessions generally run 50 to 55 minutes. I am happy to answer any questions.