Welcome!
My name is Belinda Alma Carson. I have been an LPC-S for over 20 years, working with children and adolescents from kindergarten through 12th grade. One thing I’ve learned is that therapy for children is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Since younger children often lack the vocabulary to articulate complex emotions, we rely on specialized, creative, and non-directive approaches:
Play Therapy: The natural language of a child, used to process difficult experiences through toys and imaginative scenarios.
Expressive Art Therapy: A non-verbal outlet using drawing, painting, and sculpting to express overwhelming feelings.
Sand Tray Therapy: Allows a child to create a miniature world representing their inner emotional landscape and family dynamics.
These are examples of play and exploration, which are crucial for younger children and those who may be resistant to traditional talk therapy. The goal is a holistic, sustained healing, not just symptom management. This will encourage the family to become a resilient, supportive unit long after therapy, ensuring children's long-term well-being and development.
A child therapist serves as a crucial partner in a child's life, providing them with inner strengths and coping skills. The aim is lasting recovery, moving beyond just managing symptoms.
Modalities in Therapy
My work with young people has truly been a remarkable journey of discovery into the various counseling modalities that have worked seamlessly together over time. The modality that has always been particularly close to my heart is the Oaklander Model, which is a Gestalt-based play therapy approach specifically designed for children and adolescents. This model focuses on the self and emotional expression through a variety of creative, projective techniques such as drawing, working with clay, and using puppets, all of which facilitate deeper emotional engagement and understanding.
In addition to the Oaklander Model, several other modalities are utilized in my practice. I combine various forms of CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Expressive Art Therapy, Play Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, Animal-Assisted Therapy, Somatic Therapy, and, increasingly, integrative therapies tailored to the individual needs and circumstances of each young person I work with.
