Clinical Approach

Just like we do, kids experience stress! And like us, they express it in all kinds of ways - both verbal and nonverbal - that feel adaptive to them. But, many of these responses frustrate caregivers because they can make trying times even harder. Among many other behaviors, children may show their distressing emotions through:

• tantrums or outbursts

• aggression toward themselves or others

• irritability, “attitude,” or defiance

• extreme emotional sensitivity / increased crying or whining over small things

• stubborn or rigid behavior

• clinging and separation anxiety

• toileting or sleep regression

• “shutting down” or withdrawing

• repetitive questions, or “obsessing” about irrational worries

• repetitive movements or rituals

• increased jumpiness or hyperactivity

• increased inattention or “spacing out”

These behaviors do NOT always occur for emotional reasons and can, of course, be caused by a wide range of other factors. But in this practice, your child will be given the time and attention they deserve - rather than a rushed diagnosis based on partial observation. They will be regarded as a full person with complex feelings and experiences, not reduced to a checklist of symptoms.

Sunflower Counseling sessions also make therapy fun! Both you and your child will be welcomed each week to a warm and supportive space away from stressors. Just as children cope both verbally and nonverbally, we will use a combination of verbal and nonverbal approaches (including therapeutic play, art and music) to meet your child’s individual needs. Our time will be spent playing, exhaling, releasing emotions, learning simple skills, being silly, and healing from hard things - in partnership and without pressure.