Ages 7–12
In-Office Child Therapy in Santa Rosa, CA
Warm, evidence-based counseling that helps elementary-aged children manage anxiety, focus, big emotions, and the everyday challenges of school and friendships.
Child therapy gives kids ages 7 to 12 practical tools to understand their feelings, calm their bodies, and navigate school and friendships with more confidence. In my Santa Rosa office, I combine cognitive behavioral therapy, play, and somatic techniques so children can express what is hard and learn healthier ways to cope.
When elementary-aged children need extra support
Childhood is full of growth, but some struggles are bigger than a child can manage alone. You might notice frequent meltdowns, worry that keeps your child from sleeping or going to school, trouble focusing or finishing tasks, or sudden changes in mood, friendships, or behavior. These are not signs of a "bad" child or a parenting failure. They are signals that your child needs new tools and a safe space to build them.
How I help children
Children rarely sit down and talk through their problems the way adults do. Instead, we work through play, art, stories, and structured activities that meet your child at their developmental level. As trust grows, I weave in evidence-based skills so the work is both comforting and effective:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help children notice the link between thoughts, feelings, and behavior and practice healthier responses. Learn more about CBT for kids.
- Somatic and mindfulness techniques to calm an overwhelmed nervous system and ease stress that shows up as stomachaches, headaches, or restlessness. Explore somatic therapy.
- Play and activities-based therapy so children can process experiences they cannot yet put into words. See how play therapy works.
Common concerns I work with
- Anxiety, worry, and school-related stress — child anxiety support
- Focus, organization, and emotional regulation — ADHD and focus support
- Behavioral outbursts, anger, and impulse control
- Friendship difficulties, self-esteem, and life transitions
- Family stress, divorce, grief, and big changes — family conflict support
Working together as a family
Parents are essential partners in their child's progress. I check in with you about goals, share practical strategies you can use at home, and collaborate with schools when helpful, from preschool through high school, to support placement and educational planning. The goal is lasting change your whole family can feel.
A private, focused practice in Santa Rosa
I am a fully licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and see every client myself, in person, at my Santa Rosa office. As a private-pay practice, sessions stay confidential, appropriately paced, and guided entirely by your child's needs rather than insurance limits. The best first step is a no-pressure phone call to see whether we are a good fit.