Counseling for kids whose parents are separating or divorced
When families are navigating the changes of separation and divorce, finding the right therapist for your child can feel overwhelming—and yet another thing for parents to negotiate over.
I provide a safe, neutral space where children can express themselves and work through big emotions and fears. I also hold space for caregivers to be seen and heard as parents.
As an experienced therapist, I understand the sensitive dynamics of family conflict and work collaboratively with you to support your child's well-being. Whether your child is struggling with anxiety, sadness, or behavioral changes stemming from separation, divorce or other stressors, my approach is compassionate, individualized, and focused on your child and family’s strengths.
I use a combination of toys, games, art supplies and a general calm and playful therapeutic presence in my sessions to help your child feel comfortable sharing what is on their mind. I also schedule regular meetings with you discuss your child’s progress as well as understand more deeply what is going on in the child’s life.
How I approach child therapy in sensitive situations
Often caregivers reach out to me when their parenting relationship is strained or high conflict. Each parent wants the best for their child, but levels of trust are low. While my focus is always on your child and not on the parenting relationship, I do provide a supportive, separate space for each parent to participate in their child’s treatment,
A vital part of this process is creating trust and transparency about what I am doing and the information I share, as well as being clear about the bounds and limits of confidentialty. For this reason, I have a special intake packet for children whose parents are in conflictual relationships.
Before we begin, I will ask for your custody agreement, if one exists, and prefer to get both parents’ consent for our sessions before starting, though this may depend on the situation and who holds legal consent. We agree on who will be financially responsible for the treatment. In addition, it is important to know before we start that as your child’s therapist, it is not ethical for me to provide custody recommendations.
After (ideally) meeting each parent and deciding whether I am a good fit, I will then meet with your child. We will set up a regular weekly appointment, with an idea of how often I meet with parents (separately or together, depending on the situation). Parent meetings can be in person or virtual. I prefer to meet with children in person at my downtown Berkeley office.
If you are interested in setting up a 20-minute complimentary consulation, please use my contact form, below. I see a small number of child clients, and if I do not have an opening, I will let you know.