Michelle Pliske

Attachment Theory

Attachment theory is a theory of affect regulation and interpersonal relationships. Adult attachment anxiety is conceptualized as the fear of interpersonal rejection and abandonment, negative view of the self or feelings of increased anxiety or depression within relationships. Children can experience insecurity within their relationships and the behaviors we see are a result of that anxiety.

Play Therapy 

Play therapy involves using toys, sand, art, games, and other materials to help children express themselves. Play offers the child an environment of safety. If children are able to say what they think or how they feel through toys and art with someone who can translate their behavior and facilitate the process, they will respond positively and are able to successfully work through their problems.

Family Therapy

Family therapy includes every member of the family. My role is to find opportunities through creativity for every member to have a voice and to feel included regardless of age. Each family member holds a different role and perspective and should be a part of the therapy process.

Divorce

Divorce and separating families benefit from support while navigating difficult life transitions. Divorce moves through the process of grief and loss and high conflict divorce creates relationship disruption and concern for all members involved including parents and children. My goal is to provide families support and will engage in court advocacy throughout the process for children's care.

Child or Adolescent Issues

Children frequently have difficulty talking about what is bothering them or talking about events that have occurred in their lives. My approach to counseling children and adolescents is to use a prescriptive method of play or expressive arts therapy (using the best fitting evidenced based practice that meets the needs of your child, integrated into hands-on work that brings counseling to life).

Anxiety

Anxiety is a common condition in which the person excessively worries about a variety of different topics or a specific topic or experience. This worry is excessive and uncontrollable and associated with additional symptoms of anxiety. I provide support from a relational and cognitive behavioral approach to reduce stress and worry and engage in life.