I understand that as a parent watching your daughter struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, friendships or challenging life adjustments (like divorce or moving to a new city) can be so hard because you love them, want the best for them and want for them to be happy.
As a young girl, I struggled with anxiety, depression, self-esteem and friendships. When I was 13 years old, I made a decision and dedicated my life to becoming the emotional support and confidant I needed at that time so no young girl had to feel alone in their struggle even if they had loving parents around.
Because sometimes, as a child, you just need that loving, compassionate adult outside of your parents and family to talk to about what is going on in your mind and in your life.
Throughout my life and education, I have seen just how impactful the right support can be when there is a non-judgmental compassionate listener involved in a young girl’s life- especially one that has been there.
I see my role as your daughter’s therapist to bridge the gap between your efforts to support emotionally her while understanding the underlying issues at play and providing her the safe space to explore her thoughts and feelings.
With children under the age of ten years old, it can be challenging to sit down and talk about life feelings for 50 minutes. So in our sessions often there is a lot of play therapy that occurs which can include but is not limited to drawing, games, legos, etc.
With any therapy but particularly with children, I believe that the relationship and rapport between the child and her therapist is the most important factor in our work together and I strive to make sure that each child I work with feel connected, heard and safe in my office.
As a fun bonus I usually have my two small, adorable, sweet, hypo-allergenic Shih-Tzus that come with me when I am in the office that the young girls especially love and often participate in our sessions and play.
If you are interested in exploring the possibility of me working with you and your daughter, please contact me directly at ashley@ashleyewatson.com
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