Child Therapy:Helping children feel understood, supported, and connected -Portsmouth, NH
Children communicate in many ways—through words, play, emotions, behaviors, and relationships.
When a child is struggling, behavior is often a signal that something deeper needs attention. Therapy provides a safe, supportive space where children can build emotional awareness, confidence, and new ways of navigating big feelings.
Therapy services are provided by a Master’s level LICSW candidate under the supervision of a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW).
Maybe you’ve found yourself here because…
Your child's emotions feel bigger than they know how to manage.
You are seeing more meltdowns, anxiety, withdrawal, or changes in behavior.
Your child seems overwhelmed, sensitive, or easily frustrated.
You feel unsure whether what you're seeing is "normal" or something that needs support.
You've tried strategies, but something still feels missing.
You want your child to have a safe place to be understood.
You know your child best. Therapy begins with curiosity—not judgment—to understand what your child may be communicating and what support will help them thrive.
Why play-based child therapy?
Children do not always have the words to explain what they are experiencing. Their emotions often show up through play, behavior, big reactions, worry, frustration, or changes in how they connect with others.
Rather than focusing only on changing a behavior, we explore what it may be communicating and help children build emotional awareness, coping skills, confidence, and resilience.
A Play-Based, Relationship-Focused Approach
Children process experiences through play long before they can explain them with words. The Play-based child therapy I offer here in the Portsmouth area provides a safe, expressive space where children feel understood—not evaluated.
Through a trusting therapeutic relationship, children can explore emotions, practice new skills, and develop healthier ways of coping.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach. We slow things down, notice patterns, and build tools that fit your child and your family’s real life.
Parents Are Important Partners
While your child is the focus of therapy, parents are an essential part of the process. Children are best supported when the adults around them feel informed, connected, and supported.
Depending on your child’s needs, sessions may include parent check-ins, collaboration, and guidance to help support growth beyond the therapy room.
School consultation & collaboration
With appropriate consent, therapy may include collaboration with your child's school or other care providers. this supports consistency across environments and helps the adults in your child's life better understand and respond to their needs.
School consultation may include collaboration with teachers or school teams, support around behavioral or emotional plans, and advocacy for your child's social and emotional wellbeing.