TRUST

Amy builds a trusting relationship.  The first and most important thing to engage any child in is a trusting relationship. 

Once trust has been established we move forward with the therapy which is individually prescribed and includes but is not limited to Play Therapy, Game Play Therapy, Talk Therapy and Mindfulness Techniques.

PLAY THERAPY

What is Play Therapy?
Play therapy is a powerful tool for addressing cognitive, behavioral and emotional challenges in children.  Licensed professionals therapeutically use play to help children better process their experiences and develop more effective strategies for managing their worlds.
— Association for Play Therapy 

How does Amy use Play Therapy?
Once trust has been established, play (with the use of dolls, play figures, imaginary ideas) is used to allow the child to spontaneously and safely express his or her thoughts, feelings and concerns.  Some of the thoughts and feelings expressed within play might otherwise remain hidden.  Once these thoughts and feels are released they are processed in an age appropriate manner with the child.

GAME PLAY THERAPY

Amy utilizes game play inside the therapeutic milieu.

In addition to toys and play figures, there are plenty of therapeutic games that can be of assistance to assisting children and adolescents with processing and adapting to their worlds.  Game play can be an easy way to build impulse control and overall socialization skills.

TALK THERAPY

Amy works toward honest expression of self.

Talk therapy is, simply stated, allowing the child to express his or her thoughts and feelings verbally.  Active listening and reflection are used to engage and assist the child with managing emotions.  The therapist assists the child with identifying how these thoughts and feelings impact their behaviors and situations within their world.

MINDFULNESS TECHNIQUES

What is Mindfulness?
A mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness on the present moment while calmly acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts and bodily sensations, used as a therapeutic technique.
—Dictionary

How does Amy use mindfulness?
Amy believes mindfulness is a powerful tool to teach children of all ages.  Amy uses mindfulness not only to help children self regulate, but also to guide children toward calmness in their world.