Parent Coaching for Preschoolers

with

Jean T Rothman, MFT

Preschoolers

...bed room, closed the door, and cried..."

Wow! What a true scenario! Preschoolers can be so defiant; and they can mimic us so well. When I tell people I specialize in doing therapy with preschoolers, I sometimes get looks of surprise that seem to say, "Preschoolers need therapy?" But if you are the parent with the child who is defiant, has tantrums, kicks, hits, screams, and runs around the classroom refusing to do what the other children are doing, it probably won't be a surprise to learn that therapy can help.

Preschoolers Can Get Therapy?

Yes! Preschoolers are people too, and they have feelings they don't know what to do with (so they tantrum, or withdraw, or regress, for example to thumb-sucking or bed-wetting). I have extensive training and experience in working with preschoolers (ages 3, 4 and 5) and their families around issues of:

  • Divorce or separation
  • Misbehavior at home and school
  • Defiance, "not listening"
  • Anxiety
  • New baby
  • Blended family
  • Trauma
  • Separation anxiety and more.

My work with preschoolers includes play therapy, art therapy, mindfulness, sand-tray work, as well as trauma-focused CBT if trauma has occurred, for example if your little one has been in a car accident or attacked by a vicious dog. Sometimes a child only needs clear and consistent guidelines and routines to calm down and begin behaving; sometimes a fuller therapy is needed. I always involve parents in the processes of assessing and treating whatever is going on. I have had wonderful results in as little as 3-4 months with many children. I encourage you to contact me if you have any questions about whether therapy might be helpful for your child.

Elementary school-aged

Children in elementary school are subject to many emotional, mental and behavioral issues. These may include:

  • Anxiety
  • Problems making or keeping friends
  • Depression
  • Impulsivity
  • Self-esteem

Counseling can help children worry less, make new friends, think about their own feelings and those of others, behave better in the classroom, and feel better about themselves.

What to Expect

I use a number of different methods in session, depending on your child's personality and communication style. I may utilize play therapy, art therapy, sand-tray work, or trauma-focused CBT if trauma has occurred, for example, a car accident. I also teach stress reduction and anger management techniques.

Parent Participation

As a Marriage and Family therapist, I always involve parents in the process of therapy. I see my job as one of supporting and helping both you and your child. I am available for home visits and to observe or work with your child at school, if desired.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions about getting help for your child.