Sarah Newton

I work with children experiencing anxiety, big emotions, emotional regulation difficulties, challenging behaviors, difficult experiences, and significant life changes. I’m also interested in supporting children who feel misunderstood, have difficulty expressing what they’re experiencing, or are navigating differences in how they experience and interact with the world.

I may be a good fit if you’re looking for someone who will take time to understand your child as a whole person rather than focusing only on symptoms or behavior. I value curiosity, connection, and collaboration and believe that a trusting therapeutic relationship is an important part of helping children grow.

Yes. Parents are an important part of a child’s world and, when appropriate, their therapeutic process. I want to understand what you’re noticing, what your child may be communicating through their behavior, and what is happening within the family system. I work collaboratively with parents to support their child while strengthening understanding and connection at home.

Therapy with children looks different depending on their age, personality, and needs. I may use play, art, creative activities, or movement to help children explore emotions and experiences in ways that feel natural to them. I take time to build trust and follow the child’s lead while creating opportunities for growth, self-understanding, and emotional regulation.

They don’t have to have the right words before starting therapy. Children often communicate through play, art, behavior, and relationships, especially when something is difficult to put into words. I don’t expect children to immediately explain what they’re feeling. Instead, I create space for them to express themselves in ways that feel natural and comfortable.

I want children to experience therapy as a space where they can develop trust and feel safe being themselves, while also keeping parents appropriately involved in their care. I’ll discuss general themes, progress, and ways you can support your child, while respecting your child’s developing privacy. If there are safety concerns, I will involve you as needed.

Behavior is important, but I don’t believe it tells the whole story. I’m interested in understanding what may be underneath a behavior and what your child is experiencing or communicating through it. Rather than focusing only on getting a child to behave differently, I work toward greater understanding, emotional awareness, regulation, and connection.