San Francisco Play Therapy

Summertime is here but that doesn’t mean taking a break from you or your child’s mental health needs. Without the routine of school, sometimes behavior or emotions can get messy. Call today to discuss self-care for your family!

One of my specialities is working with children and families that are struggling with a Learning Disorder, Difference or Difficulty--what I like to call the 3D's of Learning! A new diagnosis can be extremely difficult for a family. It can be so scary to navigate the practicalities as well as the emotional experience. San Francisco Play Therapy wants to support children and families in their path toward living a rewarding life with a Learning D!

Coming back to school after summer break can be tough. If there was a big transition in the family over the summer, school can be even more difficult. It's always good to remember that for the first few weeks of school your child may show signs of difficulty. Sleep disturbances, tantrums, struggles with homework that seem unusual...these are all normal when there has been a big change. They should resolve in a few weeks. If they get worse, or haven't resolved by October, it may be time to get some help. Call San Francisco Play Therapy if you have questions about your child!

It is that time of year again--back to school! Starting school after summer break can be a difficult transition for some children. Reactions can be as small as butterflies to full anxiety with stomach aches or crying. Whether this back to school transition is significant or minor, remember that talking to you child about their feelings is a great start. Creating a consistent routine that includes plenty of sleep and a good sit-down breakfast can off-set the chaos of the first few weeks of school. If your child's reaction seems especially significant, consider an assessment with a child therapist. We are here to help!

Looking for a therapist for your child can be scary. So many questions and concerns can come up. How will I find a good therapist? Will they judge me and my parenting? Will they tell me bad news about my child? These can be alarming thoughts. However, with the guidance of a caring, warm and understanding therapist, therapy can be a collaborative and positive experience. Call San Francisco Play Therapy today to see if I can help!

Many parents ask me "What exactly is Play Therapy?" This is such an important question! At first glance, it can seem like basic play time. But Play Therapy takes the many benefits of play for children and focuses it to address the issues a child may be facing. It is as fun as playtime but also helps children change the way they think, respond and confront their concerns. Call today if you want more information about San Francisco Play Therapy!

Is your child struggling with a major life change like family separation, divorce, a death of a loved one, or a traumatic experience? Or perhaps they are experiencing difficulties with a learning disorder or ADHD. Play therapy can help ease your child's struggles and can facilitate growth and development. Call today for an appointment!

Play Therapy is a great option for children struggling with learning differences or disabilities. There is research indicating there is unconscious teacher bias favoring students with normal learning styles. Play therapy can help your child increase their self-esteem and offset some of the difficulties of having a learning difference. Call today for an appointment!

Are you ready to start exploring ways to help your child with their emotional and behavioral health? Emelia Haiken LMFT can partner with you and your child in her Noe Valley location with proven play therapy techniques. Call for more information and to schedule your first appointment, 415-275-0293.