FAQ

Anxiety is the most basic of all emotions. It can be described as an unpleasant sensation, but it is not at all dangerous. Everyone knows the feeling of anxiety and has experienced it to some degree. However, what is less known, is the physical bodily sensations (increased heart rate, shortness of breath, fatigue, sweating, dizziness, trouble sleeping) that a person can experience when feeling anxious. When these sensations occur and people do not understand why, then anxiety can increase to levels of panic. This is when anxiety can become unmanageable and interfere with daily function. 

CBT is a popular form of evidence-based therapy that is widely used for children and adolescents. CBT stands for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which focuses on the cognitions or thoughts which can affect how a person feels and behaves.  It aims to break the link between cognitions (thoughts) and behaviors (actions following thoughts and feelings) when a person is distressed. CBT has been shown to be successful when working with children and adolescents with anxiety disorders.  CBT is not for every child.  This is why Elyse will need to assess whether this treatment is appropriate or whether another treatment approach will better fit the child’s needs.  

Play therapy Is a form of therapy that helps young children explore their emotions, improve their communication, and help resolve conflicts. Play is a window into a child’s world and the medium through which the child learns many basic skills. The use of storytelling, puppet play, painting, drawing, role play, and board games are just some of the instruments Elyse uses in her office. She will interpret the underlying feelings and conflicts that the play illuminates. Elyse will actively participate and direct children to play specific games that assist them in resolving certain issues. 

Psychodynamic therapy is one of the oldest more traditional forms of therapy and it is an insight-oriented therapy. This approach aims at helping children/adolescents develop self-awareness, how their internal conflicts play out in their lives and how they look at behaviors from the past. In addition, understanding the emotional patterns and where they originate, children/adolescents are better equipped to manage their emotions and develop coping techniques.