Child Life Therapy
Families shouldn’t have to face the challenges of trauma, illness, or loss without support. Kelsey, a Certified Child Life Specialist, brings expertise and compassion to help alleviate these stressors. Through therapeutic play, creative arts, and education, she assists families in making sense of their situation while teaching them effective coping methods.
What is Child Life?
Child Life Specialists are trained healthcare professionals who use evidence-based, developmentally appropriate techniques to support children and families facing the challenges of illness, injury, disability, trauma, the loss of a loved one, or hospitalization. Through therapeutic play, preparation, and education, Child Life Specialists help reduce stress and anxiety, while promoting positive coping strategies.
Some benefits of Child Life interventions include:
Reduced trauma, fear, and anxiety for children and family members during medical experiences.
Age-appropriate explanations of medical terms and procedures for both children and their families.
Parental support with insights into their child’s developmental needs, along with guidance on positive parenting strategies.
Empowerment of children to advocate for themselves in medical, school or other settings.
Preparation and education for children on what to expect during medical appointments, services, procedures, or family health events.
Child Life Sessions are
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Personalized
I provide personalized support, beginning with an initial consultation to create a customized treatment plan based on the child’s unique needs and goals.
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Integrative
Sessions will be integrative, utilizing developmentally appropriate interventions, expressive art therapy, and trauma-informed care to meet youth where they are. This holistic approach ensures that each child’s unique needs are addressed, providing a safe and supportive environment for healing and growth.
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Intentional
Sessions will be targeted to meet the youth where they are, recognizing that every family’s medical and personal journey is unique. We will collaborate to develop an individualized plan, ensuring that interventions are tailored to the child’s specific needs and circumstances.
FAQs
Where are you located?
I offer flexible meeting options to best support your family. Sessions can be held virtually via Zoom, or in-person at your home within the San Francisco Bay Area, depending on your preference and needs.
How many sessions do you offer?
The number of sessions depends on the unique needs of your child and family. We can meet weekly, bi-weekly, or on an as-needed basis, for as long as it remains supportive and beneficial. Some families prefer a consistent schedule, while others choose to adjust based on their evolving needs. The goal is to provide the right level of support to help your child thrive.
What are your fees?
Child Life Services are offered at a rate of $150–$250 per hour, depending on your family’s specific needs and circumstances. While I do not directly accept insurance, I can provide an itemized superbill that you can submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement.
I also offer a sliding scale option to accommodate your family’s financial situation. Our goal is to make services accessible while ensuring you receive the support you need.
What is the intake process?
I recommend starting with a free 20-minute consult phone call. This gives us the opportunity to learn more about your family’s unique needs and discuss which services would be the best fit for you. I am here to answer any questions and guide you through the process.