Child Psychologist and Therapist in Westlake, OH

“I Just Want my Child to Feel Okay Again”

Something’s changed. Maybe your child used to light up when playing sports or hanging with friends but now they’re withdrawing, melting down, or panicking over things that never used to upset them. School is harder, emotions feel bigger, and no matter what you say or do, it feels like nothing helps.

You’re not alone. So many parents are quietly navigating this: kids who are anxious, overwhelmed, and stuck in cycles of avoidance, meltdowns, or reassurance-seeking. And parents who are doing everything they can but still feel helpless. Maybe your child has always been sensitive or anxious. Maybe this is new. Either way, you’re here because you’re ready for something different. You want them to feel calm, capable, and like themselves again. You want your relationship with them to feel less strained and more connected. And you're wondering… is therapy the right next step?

A Therapy Experience That Doesn’t Feel Forced

Here’s the thing: most kids don’t walk into therapy eager to talk. Some feel like they’re being sent because they’re “the problem.” Others have tried therapy before and felt misunderstood, talked at, or just plain uncomfortable.

That’s why I approach therapy differently. As a child therapist and psychologist, I specialize in helping kids and teens feel heard, respected, and understood—right from the start. I use a collaborative approach that includes you, the parent, so you’re not left guessing what’s working. My sessions are flexible and kid-friendly. For those who don’t love sitting still or making eye contact, I offer walk-and-talk therapy, which is a movement-based option that helps kids feel more at ease. Because therapy should meet your child where they are at. 

What Happens When Things Start to Shift

When kids begin to feel seen and safe, something changes. They start opening up. They gain tools to understand what’s happening in their minds and bodies. And over time, they begin to believe: “I can handle this.”

Here’s what you might start to notice:

• Fewer meltdowns

• Fewer panic moments

• More confidence in school, sports, and friendships

• Better ability to self-regulate when things feel hard

• Less anxiety around grades, performance, or social situations

And just as importantly you’ll feel more empowered, too. You'll know what helps your child and what might be unintentionally feeding their anxiety.

Therapy That Supports the Family

When your child struggles, it impacts the entire family. That’s why I work closely with parents and caregivers so you’re not left on the outside wondering what’s going on behind the therapy door. Whether it’s check-ins during the appointment, parent appointments, sharing tools and strategies, or knowing what to say during a hard moment, we work together to create change

Your Child Deserves to Feel Safe, Strong, and Understood

If you’re searching for a child therapist or psychologist in Westlake, OH who understands both the emotional life of children and the daily reality of parenting them, I’d love to connect. My practice is warm, non-judgmental, and individualized for the child and family.

No matter how stuck things feel right now, change is possible. Let’s talk about what’s going on and how we can help your child move forward.