Working with kids and teens

A Different Approach for Different Ages

Therapy with young people isn't just adult therapy scaled down. Children and teenagers have their own unique ways of experiencing the world, processing emotions, and communicating their needs. I adapt my approach to meet each young person exactly where they are.

Children (Ages 6-12)

Children often express themselves best through play, art, and storytelling rather than traditional "talk therapy." In our sessions, your child might:

Use art materials to express feelings they don't have words for yet
Engage in play therapy where toys and games become tools for processing emotions
Learn age-appropriate skills for managing big feelings
Develop confidence in their ability to solve problems

I create a space where children feel safe, understood, and free to be themselves. Parents are essential partners in this work, and I'll check in with you regularly while still honoring your child's need for a private therapeutic relationship.

Teens (Ages 13 - 19)

Adolescence brings unique challenges as teens navigate identity, independence, peer relationships, and future planning—all while their brains are undergoing significant development.

In working with teens, I:

Respect their growing autonomy while providing the structure they still need
Balance their privacy with appropriate parent involvement
Meet them on their level, whether that means talking about music, social media, or school pressures
Teach practical coping strategies for anxiety, depression, and stress
Help them navigate complex social dynamics and relationships

Teens often appreciate having an objective adult who isn't a parent or teacher to talk with about their concerns. I build trust by taking their perspectives seriously and creating a judgment-free zone.

Common Concerns I Help With

Anxiety and worry
Depression and mood changes
School challenges and academic pressure
Social difficulties and friendship issues
Family transitions (divorce, moves, new siblings)

Identity exploration
Grief and loss
Trauma
Self-esteem and confidence building
Stress management
Behavioral challenges

What To Expect

First Session

For younger children, I'll typically meet with parents first, then introduce myself to your child.
For teens, I might meet with them and their parents together initially before spending time one-on-one.

Ongoing Work

Session structure and frequency is tailored to your child's needs and developmental stage. Some young people benefit from weekly sessions, while others may need a different schedule.

Parental Involvement

For children, I'll meet with parents semi-regularly.

For teens, I balance respecting their privacy with keeping parents informed about general progress and ways to support therapy at home.

Creating a safe space

My space is designed to be welcoming to young people of all ages, with appropriate materials and a relaxed atmosphere.
This is a place young people can be themselves.

Ready to take the first step?

If you're considering therapy for your child or teen, I'm happy to answer any questions you might have. You're welcome to book a parent session to discuss your concerns before bringing your young person in.

Meaghan Cook

Working with kids and teens

A Different Approach for Different Ages

Children (Ages 6-12)

Children often express themselves best through play, art, and storytelling rather than traditional "talk therapy." In our sessions, your child might:

Teens (Ages 13 - 19)

What To Expect

For younger children, I'll typically meet with parents first, then introduce myself to your child.
For teens, I might meet with them and their parents together initially before spending time one-on-one.

Session structure and frequency is tailored to your child's needs and developmental stage. Some young people benefit from weekly sessions, while others may need a different schedule.

For children, I'll meet with parents semi-regularly.

For teens, I balance respecting their privacy with keeping parents informed about general progress and ways to support therapy at home.

My space is designed to be welcoming to young people of all ages, with appropriate materials and a relaxed atmosphere.
This is a place young people can be themselves.

Ready to take the first step?

Book a session

Meaghan Cook

Working with kids and teens

A Different Approach for Different Ages

​

Children (Ages 6-12)

Children often express themselves best through play, art, and storytelling rather than traditional "talk therapy." In our sessions, your child might:

​

Teens (Ages 13 - 19)

What To Expect

For younger children, I'll typically meet with parents first, then introduce myself to your child. For teens, I might meet with them and their parents together initially before spending time one-on-one.

Session structure and frequency is tailored to your child's needs and developmental stage. Some young people benefit from weekly sessions, while others may need a different schedule.

For children, I'll meet with parents semi-regularly. For teens, I balance respecting their privacy with keeping parents informed about general progress and ways to support therapy at home.

My space is designed to be welcoming to young people of all ages, with appropriate materials and a relaxed atmosphere. This is a place young people can be themselves.

Ready to take the first step?

​

Book a session

For younger children, I'll typically meet with parents first, then introduce myself to your child.
For teens, I might meet with them and their parents together initially before spending time one-on-one.

For children, I'll meet with parents semi-regularly.

For teens, I balance respecting their privacy with keeping parents informed about general progress and ways to support therapy at home.

My space is designed to be welcoming to young people of all ages, with appropriate materials and a relaxed atmosphere.
This is a place young people can be themselves.