Therapist for Preschooler
- For children older than 5, see Therapists for School-Aged Children
- More Therapists for Children
Parent Q&A
Archived Q&A and Reviews
- Play therapist for 4 year old
- Therapist for 4-year-old's extreme behavior
- Therapist for 4-year-old's aggression and anxiety
- Therapist for 5-year-old's rages
- Therapist for ''spirited'' 4 3/4 year old
- Therapist for 5-yo son's explosive behavior
- Help for 3.5 year old's social issues
- Earlier Recommendations
Play therapist for 4 year old
August 2008
I am looking for a therapist, who is trained in play and/or sand art therapy for my 4 year old. It would be very helpful if the therapist was a part of MHN/HealthNet, but not absolutely necessary. Thank you in advance. Heather
Try Dr. Philip Gross in Albany or Berkeley (on Marin). My child similar in age to yours is doing well with him. I don't know whether he does sand art or not. anonymous
Therapist for 4-year-old's extreme behavior
July 2008
Our son is almost 4 years old... extremely busy and bright and as he gets older, extremely challenging. Lately he's been having such extremes of behavior and is not responsive to the usual modification tactics. We have seen the pediatrician and tried different strategies (positive reinforcement, time out, etc.) to no avail. We're all out of our mind - knowing that what we're doing now isn't working. We need help from someone outside our network. We seek recommendations for MFT, MFCC, other types of therapists, etc. that can help us develop short/long term strategies to effectively navigate the discipline/parenting issues that we expect will continue to present themselves throughout our son's life living with us. We are a bi-racial couple living in Oakland Dimond/Fruitvale area, seeking someone close to home.
I highly recommend Debbie Essex for both individual and family counseling. I have two very, very bright children who are now in 5th and 7th grades. We have a very strong family unit and there's no question that each of us is happy overall. But I do believe that intelligent children present challenges that at times make you feel like you're at your wits end and at other times make you worry that you may not be doing the right thing. I had sought advice from another counselor before seeing Debbie and her theories of birth canal trauma and her recommendation for whole family therapy just didn't sit well with us. Debbie Essex is different. She has a generosity of spirit that works so well for her chosen profession. She listens intently, and can talk to kids in a way that they respond to quite naturally. Whenever I have lingering concerns over parenting issues, Debbie can either put my mind at ease or identify behavior as cause for concern. I have even turned to her for personal advice regarding the depression of someone very close to me, as well as what to do about the physical behavior of a parent on my son's soccer team. I recommended her to one of my closest friends at the birth of her baby for her adopted son's sense of security. I am confident that her experience as a therapist will not just help you, but that you will feel more secure as a parent because you see her. Here's her info: Deborah Essex, MFT 2931 Shattuck Avenue, #101E Berkeley, CA 94705 (510) 548-8980 www.deborahessex.com
Therapist for 4-year-old's aggression and anxiety
May 2008
I am looking for an experienced child therapist for my 4 year old child that would help him to control agressive behaivors and anxiety. We have Alameda Aliance for Health (medi-cal) Mother
My five year old and I LOVE Dr. Joan Lovett. She is a developmental pediatrician with lots of experience working with kids who have agression and anxiety issues. She is wonderful with my daughter, and she was very accurate with her diagnosis and parenting techniques. I don't know what types of insurance she accepts, but she's definitely worth the money! She's located near Solano Ave in Berkeley. Her number is 510-524-0488 On the Way to Happy Parenthood
Therapist for 5-year-old's rages
Jan 2008
Our 5yr old is a loving empathetic child. However, he will fly into a rage occasionally...not a ''i'm angry leave me alone'' fit, but a real rage. These fits have been happening more and more in the last 3-months. They seem connected somehow to our business travel...one of us is always with them, but when the other gets back--watch out. In these moments, which can be triggered by something as petty as asking him to get dressed, or pouring too much in milk in his cereal, there is no talking, consoling or anything that seems to help until his rage subsides. He remembers exactly what he did and said during these moments, is remorseful, but apparently cannot keep himself from falling into this fit. Other pieces of that we're not sure fit into any answer to our son's issue is that he is always misplacing things, toys, etc..., he's clumsy...running into people and things. I'd like to say he doesn't listen ... that he's distracted, but it really seems like he just chooses to ignore.
I absolutely recommend that you contact the agency I work for, JFCS/East Bay in Berkeley. We have an amazing team of early childhood experts who will help you understand and sort through the developmental issues your son is dealing with right now. In addition to parent-child therapy, they also offer individual play therapy for kids, which could help your son directly deal with some of his behaviors. The therapists are all loving, empathetic, and extremely dedicated to helping young kids. While the agency is inspired by Jewish values, the services are open to people of all backgrounds and ethnicities. Call (510) 704-7475 x299 for Valerie Rosenfield, who does the initial intake. Find out more at www.jfcs-eastbay.org. All the best, Holly
Therapist for ''spirited'' 4 3/4 year old
Jan 2006
I have a very ''spirited'' 4 3/4 year old boy and am looking for a therapist who can help us determine what's going on with him; whether its just behavioral/developmental or something else. He is a very bright, loving, dynamic, cool kid but he has problems with aggression, anger, short attention span and high level of frustration, very intense and volatile emotions, difficulty with transitions, energy level and mood swings etc etc. His issues are overwhelming us right now and my husband and I are getting really stressed out and probably making things worse at this point. Nothing we do seems to help. We are walking on eggshells, never know when a huge explosive tantrum will hit. We have had a very hard time finding anyone who will even return our phone calls, let alone knowing where to start and what kind of therapist to go to. We would like to find someone who can do some sort of assessment of him and guide us in finding ways to help him interact more smoothly in the world. Can anyone recommend an occupational therapist or someone who specializes in young children (our insurance is Pacificare...)???? Are there any support groups out there?
Our experience with Susan Campordonico, OT, at Alta Bates/Herrick Campus (on Dwight Way in Berkeley) has been positive and helpful for our now 6 yr. old, (510) 204-4599. Also Dr. Brad Berman, our developmental pediatrician in Walnut Creek (925) 279-3480. It takes a very long time to get in to see him, so you might ask your pediatrician to refer you. Don't know about your specific insurance. Good luck. anon.
Please contact Dr. Denkla in Maryland, head of Pediatric Behavioralist program for John Hopkins University hospital. I have been to her lectures, and she is the top on her field. Please look for her in the internet, contact her and ask for a recommendation from her office here in California. She is your best bet to solve your issues. Answers
I have certainly been there! Ours was with our daughter though. You need to pick up the book ''The Bipolor Child'' by Paolos & Paolos. Just to see if some of the symtoms fit, and possible suggestions to at least help you deal with the flare ups/ explosions before you finish losing your mind! We went to Dr. Alderman at Richmond Kaiser - he is absolutely awesome! He was never quick to diagnose, but also gave us tools neccessary to help us deal with difficult explosions that would come out of nowhere. I totally understand the whole ''walking on eggshells'' household. It is very scary when you realize how much control all the sudden your 4-5 yr old child has over the entire household. Since seeing Dr. Alderman, and reading the book, it has helped Tremendously! Our daughter is now the loving child we always knew she had inside her. Even though we still experience a flare up now and then, we now know how to handle it better and our house is so much more peaceful and loving. And th! e stress has cut down unbelievable
We too had the experience of not even getting callbacks when looking for a therapist for our son. We eventually did get one call back and when we starting seeing him, we asked him what prompted hin to call when he was obviously quite busy? He told us that it was because we mentioned our pediatrician's name. So if you have not already done so, ask your pediatrician who they know that are pychiatrists or psychologists. You also mentioned O.T. That is a very good avenue to pursue, which I have only recently leaned about. It may be easier to get insurance coverage at this point, particularly if you can identify any kind of motor challenges your son has - does he excel at Legoes or avoid them. If he avoids them or some other activity that children his age generally are drawn towards, such as coloring, or puzzles, then that is a red flag. Lastly talk to your School District. I was astounded to learn recently that school districts are providing services to children as young as 3. I wish you well. Anon
Therapist for 5-yo son's explosive behavior
March 2005
I'm looking for a child psychiatrist in the East Bay (preferably Berkeley/Oakland) who also does therapy with young children. My 5-yo son has explosive behavior (meltdowns, aggression, screaming, general defiance) and a genetic propensity for bipolar disorder. We are specifically not looking for a psychologist or other non-medical therapist, but for an M.D. who can also prescribe medication.
I've gotten recommendations for Lester Isenstadt, Paul Abrinko and Madeline Lansky, but didn't see anything about them in the archives. Our preference is to avoid medication if possible, and to approach treatment mainly through therapy.
Thanks in advance for any feedback on these M.D.s or any other recommendations. Need to find help
Dr. Paul Abrinko is wonderful. Worth the time and money. anon
If you are looking to avoid medication, then your best bet is to find a good cognitive behavioral psychologist. Psychiatrists are not typically trained to do behavior therapy. Contact the San Francisco Bay Area Center for Cognitive Therapy. There is an excellent psychologist there who works specifically with children. Deborah
Help for 3.5 year old's social issues
Oct 2003
We are looking for a child psychologist or other professional to help our 3.5-year old with some social issues. Ideally the Dr./LCSW would observe our son at school and then have some sessions. Our son is having difficulty making friends, and understanding how to approach individual kids and groups of kids-and does so inappropriately - growling, screaming, etc. We are not interested in a psychiatrist (or medication) as a solution, but a psychologist/professional that treats and (maybe specializes in kids)this young. Thanks so much for any referrals that can be provided. anon
try Jill Shugart, 510-528-0309, offices in N. Berkeley and Walnut Creek. She's a therapist that specializes with children. She also has been a preschool director for years. It's hard to find somebody who knows little ones. anon.
We went to a woman when we were having problems with our son hitting. She is not a psychologist (as far as I know). But, she is an expert on (as the person who recommended her put it) ''normal kids with behavorial issues.'' We found her very helpful. Her name is Meg Zweibeck and she's in Oakland. Her e- mail is dearmeg [at] rcn.com Best of luck to you! Nancy
I'm responding to the two recent posts seeking therapy/counseling for children (I think the requests were from parents of a 4 year old and an 8 year old). I know of a great therapist in Albany who works with kids and families, and who has specialized in working with younger children (preschool and elementary grades) and with adolescent girls. Monica Frame, LCSW (510-504-8168) works with the family and with the school (if appropriate), and I think that parents feel respected and included in the process. Her advice to parents is very practical and she is really patient/kind with kids. Karen
I would like to recommend Monica Frame, Licensed Clinical Social Worker to anyone who needs an expert in psychotherapy for children, adults and families. She is available for school consultations. Her manner is professional and warm and her advice is excellent and always very helpful. She can be reached at 510-504-8168. A preschool program director
Help for 4-year-old who has trouble adjusting
One suggestion would be to try taking a workshop at Parents Place on Preparing for Preschool. The class meets for two evenings in July, led by Susan Byrd (a licensed clinical social worker at Parents Place in Marin). The workshop will cover preparing yourself and your child for the social experience of preschool and you can get the advice and support of a therapist for only $15 a session. If you need more help or a one to one consultation, you could follow up with her or one of the other clinicians/therapists at Parents Place but this is a relatively inexpensive way to see whether or not a therapist is the answer. Please feel free to call me if you have any questions at 510 433-2959...I'm the Parent Education Coordinator for Parents Place in Marin. You can also see the workshops/classes online at ParentsPlaceOnline.org or call them at 415 491-7959.
Thanks!
Michael Y. Simon, MFT
Therapist for Preschooler with 'communication handicap'
Feb 2003
Can anyone recommend a child therapist to help us foster emotional/social growth in a preschooler with a 'communication handicap'? Barbara Kalmanson is not accepting new patients. Has anyone worked with Peter August or Rebecca Schwartz? We're thinking a 'floortime approach' would be most appropriate but are open to other alternatives. thank you
We know of an excellent ''floortime specialist'' who trained with Stanley Greenspan. She can work with your child in your home and also train family members to foster communication through a relational approach. Please call me for details about Ilene Lee, PhD. M.L.
My therapist, Dr. Margaret Dodson, on Solano Ave., often sees children. I haven't taken my child to her, but she has such a kind, gentle manner and a great sense of humor, that it seems like it would be worth checking her out. Her number is 510/526-0474. Stefanie
Therapist to build 5-year-old's social skills
March 2003
I'm looking for someone who can work with an almost-5-year-old with issues of self-control, focus, tantrums, alone and/or with me, especially to build social skills for attendance at public kindergarten next fall. She is a high-energy and not super verbal child, so a play/art/physically oriented approach would probably work best. Or, if you know of someone not on the above list, please let me know; I'd be willing to spend my own $$ to work with someone really great. Thanks in advance.
Two child therapists that I would highly recommend are: Hope Dean, LCSW on Carelton St. in Berkeley at 510-649-1144 Linda Cozzarelli, LCSW on College in Oakland at 510-428-9050 They are both seasoned therapists who specialize in working with children and (it's almost a given!) do play therapy. Good luck! dscott
Play therapy for 5-year-old
Feb 2000
Can anybody recommend a therapist/child psychologist who works with preschoolers (my son is just turning 5)? He has tantrums, has trouble with transitions and controlling his temper and it's causing some problems at school that we'd like to nip in the bud. Dana
I love doctor Judith Isackson. She is on Solano Ave. I am not sure if she is on the Albany or Berkeley side. She has seen many of the kids I work with (I am a pre-school teacher) and she has been wonderful to work with. Thomas
I highly recommend Dr. Fortunee Kayra-Stuart located both in Berkeley on 9th Street (near the West Side Cafe) and in Walnut Creek. My child has been seeing Dr. Stuart for the last 4 months for similar issues that you mentioned and we have found her help to be incredible. We have Health Net so we had to go thru the magic UC Mangaged Care phone number, but it's worth the $20 co-pay. Dr Stuart's # is 510-549-0181.
I have found occupational therapy to be extremely helpful for my sensitive (now 5 year old). We had her assessed by a developmental pediatrician -- get a referral from your regular pediatrician -- who found that she had sensory processing issues. OT helps with all of these every day challenges. We are at Full Circle for OT. They usually have a waiting list but if you are flexible about the first appointment they can usually find a way to fit you in.
I echo the first respondent - it sounds like you will want to explore an evaluation with a developmental pediatrician for some of the issues you discuss, and once you have an official diagnosis you can begin therapy. Wishing you a smooth road!
After my twins began kindergarten, one of them began exhibiting separation anxiety and would plead with staff to call her parents and assure she was going to get picked up from school. By the end of the school year her teacher recommended I get help for her. I found Dr. Fortunee Kayra-Stuart and she saw my daughter weekly for seven months. Her twin sister attended with her biweekly, and the four of us would have a family session every 4-5 weeks. Dr. Stuart employs play therapy. She’s a remarkable, incredibly experienced and knowledgeable psychologist and I remain very grateful for all she did with/for all of us. My daughter gained the confidence and assurance required and Dr. Stuart eventually ended the sessions.
This was almost 20 years ago and Dr. Stuart appears to still be in practice. https://www.child-psych.org/child-psychologists/fortunee-kayra-stuart/
Best wishes for a positive outcome for your family.
I am a therapist and have worked with children before. I would absolutely recommend looking for play-based therapists or art/music therapists to support your son. Highly sensitive kids are also incredibly gifted and need a lot of support and tools to help them through, and the help out there is absolutely transformative and worthwhile. All the best to your family and your son!
I agree with the posters suggesting starting with a developmental pediatrician. When you say that you you are "not giving my child what he needs", I hope you can talk to the pediatrician, because I think you are doing a great job in trying to figure out what might help best.