Family Therapy Services in Denver & Littleton

Children and adolescents need a safe space to process their emotions and learn to express themselves. I provide an in-person, screen-free environment for that to happen. Sometimes, it can be helpful to bring parents or others into the space when kids are ready to share something difficult. I also offer play therapy and somatic sensations to help teach kids about their bodies and how emotions feel physically. I am specifically trained in neurodiversity and how to help kids learn about their brains and how they work.

Siblings can also benefit from therapy together to understand each other's perspectives. This shared experience can improve their relationship by fostering empathy, communication, and conflict resolution skills. It helps siblings learn to support each other and navigate their unique dynamics.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based model for addressing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other challenges. DBT focuses on mindfulness, learning about and regulating emotions, and acceptance. This model helps with emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and impulsivity. It can also be a great model to teach kids the importance of understanding their emotions and how to manage them effectively. This approach helps children move beyond their natural egocentricity to consider perspectives outside themselves.

Read more here

 Understanding DBT: Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Kids 

Family dynamics can be complex and challenging. Family counseling services are here to help you navigate through the challenges and build stronger relationships. I work with families of all sizes and backgrounds to help them communicate better, resolve conflicts, and build stronger bonds.

 One way to make sense of confusing feelings is to imagine that we are composed of different parts. These parts work together to keep us safe and functioning. Some of these parts originate from our childhood. By acknowledging and understanding their needs, we can help these inner child parts integrate into our adult selves.

 Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy views the mind as composed of distinct "parts," each with its own emotions and motivations. These parts include Exiles, which carry pain and trauma from past experiences; Managers, who work to keep the system organized and prevent the exiles' pain from surfacing; and Firefighters, who manage distress when exiles' pain breaks through, often using impulsive behaviors. In IFS models, firefighter and manager parts protect the Exile, seen as the wounded inner child. When these parts are acknowledged and thanked for their protective roles, they allow the true Self—characterized by calmness and compassion—to emerge. This process occurs in a caring, connected space where the Self feels seen and heard, guiding the parts towards harmony and healing. 

Learn more here  Richard C. Schwartz, Ph.D. - The Founder of Internal Family Systems | IFS Institute 

No matter who you consider to be in your family, it is important to stay connected to them. Improve communication and help each other be their best. Conflicts from last week or last decade can be held onto for generations. Break cycles by naming and working through these issues on your own or with your loved ones.

Family therapy can focus on changes in life events and family structure, such as welcoming a new baby or adopting a child. When kids grow and change, it is also a great time to seek out family therapy to adapt to new roles and responsibilities. It's easy for parents to treat a child like a toddler or an adolescent like a child. It is challenging to adjust parenting techniques as children grow.

Blending a family is another great time to seek family therapy and help the kids adjust to the new family dynamics. If you have recently received a diagnosis for your child, often a neurodiversity diagnosis can bring up ideas for the parent that they may also experience the world a little differently. ADHD and Autism are often genetic and can be seen in one or both parents. Family therapy can help you navigate that diagnosis for your child and also support your own feelings and experiences.

Family therapy can also be beneficial for adult children to help understand and process their experiences, either with siblings or parents in the room. I have worked with three generations in the room at once to help bring families together.

Learn more here Family Therapy: What It Is, Techniques & Types