children and family therapy
Supporting Children With Care, Respect, and Autonomy
A Child-Centered, Developmentally Informed Approach
My work with children (ages 3–12) is rooted in child-centered, non-directive play therapy, supported by the principles of “Yes Brain,” “Gentle Parenting,” and “Positive Parenting.”
These approaches honor a child’s natural developmental process and emphasize connection, communication, curiosity, and consistent care.
As defined by Seay et al. (2014):
“Positive parenting is the continual relationship of a parent(s) and a child that includes caring, teaching, leading, communicating, and providing for the needs of a child consistently and unconditionally.”
This philosophy guides the way I relate to children — always with warmth, acceptance, and respect for their unique inner worlds.
Changes We Often See in Treatment
Every child is different, and no outcome is guaranteed.
Still, when a child feels truly safe, seen, and supported, change is possible.
In my practice, I’ve seen children experience:
Increased confidence and self-esteem
Reduced anxiety and worry
Improved social skills and social engagement
Fewer anger outbursts & reduced oppositional behavior
Increased empathy and communication
Reduced self-harm behaviors & strengthened coping skills
Improved concentration, focus, and ability to achieve a “calm body”
Reduced impulsivity and emotional reactivity
These shifts bring relief, hope, and greater ease to both children and their families — and your family is absolutely worthy of that.
Children have so little control over the world around them. One of my greatest passions is giving kids a space where they can truly be themselves — a space to explore, express, take up room, and develop the autonomy they’ll one day use outside of session. It’s incredible what one hour a week of focused attention, compassion, and unconditional positive regard can do for a child’s emotional world.
Families Are Part of the Healing Process
Children are shaped by both their environments and their relationships. That means parents, caregivers, and often siblings play a vital role in supporting therapeutic change.
For children under 12, treatment typically includes:
Monthly family sessions
Ongoing collaboration and updates
Support for implementing interventions at home
Brief weekly caregiver check-ins (when individual sessions are scheduled)
This collaborative structure helps ensure that progress made in the therapy room is reinforced in real life.
A Foundation of Consent & Comfort
Mental health goals can only be reached when a child feels safe and invested.
Before beginning treatment, consider asking your child:
“Can you picture yourself feeling safe talking with this adult?”
“What do you think therapy is?”
“What does a therapist do?”
“How do you think Jess could be helpful to you?”
These simple conversations can reveal powerful insights and help ensure the child feels included in the process.
And if I’m not the right fit?
I’m always happy to connect you with trusted child therapists from my professional network. Your child’s wellbeing comes first.
investing in your well-being
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An introductory call to get to know each other, ask questions, and make sure the fit feels right for your child and family.
Pricing | $0
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A thorough and collaborative first session to explore your child’s needs, history, and goals, and to establish a supportive treatment plan.
Pricing | $150
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Includes brief caregiver check-ins when individual sessions are scheduled.
We can discuss payment options to ensure therapy feels sustainable, supportive, and accessible.Pricing | $150 (Sliding Scale)
Good Faith Estimate with “No Surprises Act” of 2022.
You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency healthcare services, including psychotherapy.
Under this law:
Providers must offer an estimate to anyone without insurance or not using insurance.
You may request a Good Faith Estimate before scheduling any service.
If you receive a bill that is $400 or more above your estimate, you have the right to dispute it.
Keep a copy of your estimate for your records.
