play is the language of childhood

At Sunnyside we practice Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT). CCPT is an age-appropriate, evidence-based approach to counseling most useful for children between the ages of five and eight or nine. The counselor is allowing and encouraging of the child to navigate the session themselves while also engaging with them in play and making reflections of their feelings.

This approach to counseling has many benefits, including building emotional awareness and intelligence, processing trauma and stressors, encouraging confidence and self-advocacy, and improving communication in relationships.

In play therapy I work together with you and your child. While each session is dedicated to the child’s experience, we also schedule time to consult with parents/guardians to explore behavior from their perspective. We come ready to discuss themes of play, strengths, prosocial skills, and to help problem solve difficult behaviors.