Evidence-Based Therapies for Children & Families

Play therapy uses play as a developmentally appropriate way for children to communicate, process experiences, and work through emotional and behavioral challenges. Because young children often lack the verbal capacity to describe what they are feeling, play becomes the medium through which they make sense of their inner world and their relationships.

Our clinicians draw on multiple play-based approaches, including Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), a structured, non-directive modality with an emerging evidence base for supporting children with anxiety, behavioral concerns, trauma exposure, and difficulties with emotional regulation. In CCPT, the therapist follows the child's lead within carefully held conditions of acceptance, empathy, and consistency, allowing the child to express and work through experiences at their own pace.

Beth Friedberg has completed specialized training in CCPT and integrates this approach with younger clients. Other clinicians incorporate directive and integrative play-based methods, allowing us to match the approach to the child's developmental stage and treatment goals.

CBT is a structured, evidence-based approach that helps individuals recognize and alter negative thought patterns that contribute to emotional distress. Through practical exercises and self-reflection, clients learn strategies to manage challenging emotions, improve mood, and build resilience.

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is an evidence-based, structured treatment for children and adolescents ages 3 to 18 who have experienced trauma or significant stress. TF-CBT typically spans 8 to 25 sessions and combines parent-only, child-only, and joint sessions, with the precise pacing shaped by the child's needs, the nature of the stressor, and family circumstances.

Treatment progresses through phases that address psychoeducation, coping and regulation skills, processing of the trauma narrative, and consolidation of gains. Caregiver involvement is a central feature throughout. TF-CBT is delivered by Dr. Samantha Smith.

Attachment, Regulation, and Competency is an evidence-based framework for children, adolescents, and their caregiving systems navigating the effects of stressful experiences, developmental differences, or other complicating factors.

ARC organizes treatment around three core domains: the attachment relationships that provide a child's foundation, the developing capacity for emotional and behavioral regulation, and the broader competencies that support resilience over time. ARC offers a flexible structure that clinicians tailor to each family, with attention to the skills most consistently associated with positive long-term outcomes. ARC is delivered by Dr. Samantha Smith.

IPT is particularly effective for PMADs, focusing on strengthening interpersonal relationships and improving social support. This therapy helps clients navigate the unique emotional challenges related to motherhood and family dynamics, promoting a balanced, positive self-view and healthy relationships.

Mindfulness and somatic therapies emphasize a body-mind connection, supporting emotional regulation and reducing stress. Through techniques like mindful breathing, body awareness, and grounding, clients can manage overwhelming emotions and build a foundation of calm and self-acceptance.

IFS facilitates self-discovery and healing by helping clients connect with their internal “parts” that may influence feelings of anxiety, depression, or stress. This compassionate approach supports individuals in understanding how different parts work together, fostering self-compassion and balance.

ACT helps clients accept challenging emotions and thoughts rather than resisting them. By promoting acceptance, ACT enables individuals to align actions with their values, reduce emotional suffering, and build a fulfilling life even amidst difficulties.

RFP-C is an emotion-focused therapy that helps children manage anxiety and disruptive behaviors by increasing their tolerance for strong emotions. This approach assists children in understanding and expressing their feelings constructively, fostering resilience and emotional regulation.