Information for Parents
Since 2020, Maria is not generally taking on work with young children, and will consider working with adolescents.
The answers to these commonly asked questions will help parents initiate therapy for their child or teen.
Caregivers can also receive parenting support from Maria.
The answers to these commonly asked questions will help parents initiate therapy for their child or teen.
Caregivers can also receive parenting support from Maria.
What kinds of issues does Maria respond to in her younger clients?
See the Children and Youth page for detailed information.
How do parents begin the therapy process for a child or teen?
A phone conversation is the best place to start. Parents can talk to Maria about their family context and potential need for therapy. If working together feels like a good fit, Maria will gather a family history in preparation for the child or adolescent’s initial session.
How does therapy begin for a child?Parents and children enter the initial session together. With parent participation and encouragement, children are usually comfortable spending the rest of the session in the playroom on their own.
Children typically attend 3-4 sessions with Maria before she provides a parent feedback session. At this time, Maria shares the child’s work, answers parent questions, and provides recommendations for the future. Through this collaborative process, Maria works with parents to determine the next best steps for the child. How does therapy begin for an adolescent?Depending on the specific context, therapy begins either with the adolescent on their own or with a parent present.
Maria’s initial focus with teens is on building an open and trusting relationship. Once established, this enables her to work in healthy partnership to support their mental and emotional wellness. |
How can Sandplay Therapy benefit children and youth?
Working freely and creatively with the sand, children and youth can experience their own strength and resilience with the witnessing therapist. The symbolic expressions young people create in the tray offer a deeper understanding of their challenges and process of change.
Through sandplay, children and youth can:
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How can Maria support parents?
Maria offers counselling and referrals for parents who need help with:
- Managing parenting stress
- Improving family relationships
- Navigating the teen years
- Mental health in the family
- When to get professional help