Personalized Support for Children and Teens
Individual therapy at Dustin VanderHaar’s practice provides a supportive, one-on-one environment where children and teens can develop emotional strength, build practical coping tools, and gain the skills they need to thrive. Grounded in evidence-based practices—especially Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)—sessions are designed to match the needs, energy, and developmental level of each youth.
Dustin’s background includes over a decade of working with children, adolescents, and families in residential treatment, hospital settings, and community programs. This experience shapes a therapeutic approach that is structured, engaging, and deeply attuned to how youth learn and grow. His practice emphasizes collaboration with families, integration of hands-on activities, and the belief that meaningful change is achievable when youth feel understood, supported, and confident in themselves.
CBT & Evidence-Based Interventions
Dustin uses developmentally appropriate CBT techniques to help youth understand how their thoughts, feelings, and actions connect. These tools give children and teens practical ways to manage worries, increase motivation, navigate frustrations, and shift unhelpful thinking patterns. CBT is particularly effective for common challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and behavioral difficulties.
Creative & Activity-Based Approaches
Traditional talk therapy doesn’t work for every child—especially energetic boys and teens. Sessions often incorporate games, art, movement, and hands-on tools to keep youth engaged while teaching coping strategies in ways that feel natural and accessible. These methods help youth express emotions safely, reduce resistance, and make therapy feel more like skill-building than a lecture.
Emotional Regulation Skills
A core focus of therapy is helping youth identify, understand, and manage their emotions more effectively. Through structured exercises, real-world practice, and interactive tools, Dustin helps youth build calm-down strategies, frustration tolerance, and the ability to navigate overwhelming situations with greater confidence.
Building Self-Awareness
Sessions help youth develop a clearer sense of their thoughts, reactions, behavior patterns, and personal strengths. Increased self-awareness supports better decision-making, improved communication, and a stronger sense of identity—key components of healthy development.
Resilience & Confidence Development
Dustin works with youth to strengthen their ability to face challenges with resilience. Whether addressing academic stress, social struggles, behavioral frustrations, or emotional difficulties, therapy builds problem-solving skills, stress-management abilities, and a more empowered sense of self.
Skill-Building for Daily Success
Practical life skills are woven into every session. This may include executive functioning strategies, flexible thinking, social communication tools, and healthy coping habits. The goal is not only emotional growth—but also real-world success at home, in school, and with peers.