Therapy for Children and Adolescents

At A Secure Base Psychological Services, we understand that children face unique emotional and psychological challenges that require specialized care. Our practice, led by Dr. Yanet Vanegas, offers a safe and supportive environment where children can explore their feelings, overcome difficulties, and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Comprehensive Mental Health Care

Dr. Vanegas provides individualized therapy for a wide range of childhood mental health concerns, including but not limited to:

Anxiety Disorders:

Helping children manage and reduce anxiety through cognitive-behavioral techniques, relaxation strategies, and emotional regulation skills.

Depression:

Offering support and interventions to help children cope with sadness, loss of interest, and other symptoms of depression.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD):

Providing effective strategies to manage and reduce the impact of OCD on a child’s daily life.

Eating Disorders:

Specialized treatment for children struggling with eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating disorder.

Behavioral Issues:

Addressing behavioral problems such as ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and conduct disorder through structured behavioral therapy.

Evidence-Based Treatments

Our therapy for children and adolescents is grounded in evidence-based practices, ensuring that you receive the most effective and up-to-date care. Dr. Vanegas utilizes a variety of therapeutic techniques, including:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helping children understand and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): A highly effective method for treating OCD by gradually exposing children to their fears while preventing their usual compulsive responses.
Family-Based Therapy (FBT) for Eating Disorders: Using play as a medium for children to express their emotions and work through psychological issues in a natural and comfortable way.
Play Therapy: A highly effective method for treating OCD by gradually exposing children to their fears while preventing their usual compulsive responses.
Family Therapy: Involving family members in the therapeutic process to address systemic issues and improve family dynamics.
Executive Functioning Coaching: Assisting children in developing organizational, planning, time management, and self-regulation skills to enhance their academic and daily life success.

Therapy Structure

Intake Session

The process begins with an intake session where we gather detailed information about the child’s background, current concerns, and goals for therapy. This session helps us understand the unique needs of each child and develop an individualized treatment plan.

Individual Therapy Sessions

Following the intake session, children participate in regular individual therapy sessions. These sessions focus on building a trusting relationship with the therapist, exploring emotions, and developing coping strategies. The frequency and duration of these sessions are tailored to each child’s needs.

Parent / Caregiver Involvement

We believe that involving parents and caregivers is crucial for successful therapy. Regular parent sessions are conducted to provide support, education, and strategies to help them reinforce therapeutic progress at home.

Progress Reviews

Periodic progress reviews are conducted to evaluate the child’s development and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. These reviews ensure that the therapy remains aligned with the child’s evolving needs and goals.

Creating a Secure Base

Our practice is dedicated to creating a secure base where children feel safe, understood, and empowered. We strive to build strong, trusting relationships with our young clients, encouraging them to express themselves openly and work towards their goals with confidence. If you are concerned about your child’s mental health or behavioral well-being, don’t hesitate to contact us. At A Secure Base Psychological Services, we are here to help your child thrive emotionally and mentally. Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment.

Contact Us Today!