A trusted partner...

Raising children can be one of life's greatest responsibilities and one of its greatest joys. When we recognize that our child needs to see a counselor, it can feel overwhelming. We have questions:

    "Is this really necessary?"
    "What's going on in there?"
    "Will the counselor support our values?"
    "Is this going to work? WHEN?"

At Sanctuary, our goal is to partner with families. We understand the challenges you face, and we are here to offer effective support without judgement.

We recognize how important it is that your child is cared for by competent and compassionate professionals. We take your trust seriously, and are available to address your concerns at any time.

A safe (and often fun) experience...

When you walk into our Douglassville "Kid Room," you notice something different. Gone are couches and cramped spaces. Instead, children are greeted with a welcoming space filled with art supplies, games, and quiet space to stretch out and talk. Shoes are kicked off, a snack is shared, and children are relaxed and able to reflect and speak with ease.

Kids look forward to their visits to Sanctuary, but make no mistake - there's real work being done! We provide safety and boundaries while still extending options and invitations. Our staff enjoys tailoring activities to match both the personal interests and the therapeutic needs of each child. Whether it's adapting a board game, sharing a story, or engaging in creative play, the goal is always to achieve an effective session.

Personalized to meet the needs of each child and teen...

How does therapy for children differ?
While many of the goals of therapy are the same for children and adults, it's important to note that regardless of age, therapy should be a personalized experience. For children, this often includes sensitivity to their developmental age but it also allows for their personal interests and particular needs. We're less likely to sit on opposite couches, and there is often a good deal of activity available. But whatever child and therapist are doing, our staff is focused on your child's wellness, healing, and growth.


How can I prepare my child for therapy?
This is a common question, and we're happy to discuss this with your family ahead of time. The important thing is to ensure that your child anticipates sessions as a safe, positive, helpful experience. Additionally, parents can help setting a therapeutic tone by explaining to children that while Sanctuary is an enjoyable place to visit, it's important that we remember that it's not a playdate and we are here to talk about important things.


How can therapy help MY child?
Sensing that your child is struggling or in distress can be alarming. Children may experience a wide variety of difficulties for which counseling/therapy can be an effective support. While Sanctuary does not have the resources to support all types of needs, some of the most frequently observed are:

            Depression            Anxiety            Acting Out            Gender Questions            Grief

            Self-Esteem          Adjustment       Social Skills            Sexual Identity                Body Image    









If you are unsure, please don't hesitate to consult with us! We are here to partner with you if possible, and to support your search for other assistance if necessary.