Helping Kids and Families Build Connection and Resilience
Big feelings and tough moments are a natural part of growing up, and parenting through them isn’t easy. At RegulateWell, therapy offers children and families space to process challenges, strengthen relationships, and discover new ways to grow together.
Meeting Families Where They Are
Children don’t always have the words to explain what they’re feeling. That’s why therapy for kids looks different than it does for adults. In the playroom, toys, art, and movement often become the language, helping children express what’s happening inside in ways that feel natural to them. For older kids and adults, conversation, sand tray, or creative activities can open new pathways to insight and healing.
My role is to listen, reflect, and guide, so that children and parents can better understand each other and work toward lasting change
My Approach
No two families are alike, and no two children learn and heal in the exact same way. My approach is prescriptive, which means I draw from multiple evidence-based methods and adapt them to each client’s needs.
Some of the approaches I use include:
Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT): A non-directive approach where children lead the play, and the therapist provides acceptance, empathy, and a safe environment for growth.
TraumaPlay Therapy: A structured, flexible model designed to help children process traumatic experiences and rebuild a sense of safety and trust.
Adlerian Play Therapy: A balance of guided activities and free play, focused on helping children feel capable, connected, and understood.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): A therapy approach that helps individuals (children and adults) process and heal from distressing experiences and trauma in a way that reduces emotional overwhelm and supports healthier coping and resilience.
What ties all of these together is my belief that therapy works best when children feel seen, parents feel supported, and families are given tools that extend beyond the therapy room.
What to Expect
Starting therapy can feel like a big step, especially when it’s your first time. Here’s what the process looks like at RegulateWell:
Free 15-Minute Phone Consultation
We’ll briefly talk about your needs and questions, and make sure I’m the right fit for your family.Parent Intake Session
I meet with parents first—either virtually or in person—to learn more about your child, your family’s story, and your goals.Three Child Sessions
I spend time with your child to build connection, observe, and better understand their needs.Parent Feedback Session
I meet with you again to share insights, answer questions, and discuss a plan for moving forward.Ongoing Support
Children typically attend weekly therapy, while parents meet with me monthly for continued guidance and skill-building.This rhythm allows progress to happen both inside and outside the therapy room.
About Karie
Hi, I’m Karie Glide, LMSW, RPT.
I’ve worked as a social worker for more than 10 years, supporting children, teens, and families through life transitions, mental health struggles, and moments of feeling stuck. Early in my career, I practiced cognitive behavioral approaches, but I was drawn to the unique insight and healing I witnessed in play therapy. Since then, I’ve become a Registered Play Therapist, certified in both Child-Centered Play Therapy, Adlerian Play Therapy and TraumaPlay Therapy, with additional training in EMDR and Trust-Based Relational Intervention.
I believe therapy should feel approachable, not intimidating. My goal is always to create a safe space where children can express themselves, parents feel included in the process, and families can grow stronger together.
Let’s Connect
If you’re exploring whether therapy might be the right fit for your child or family, I’d be glad to talk with you. The first step is a simple phone call where we can learn a little about each other and see what feels right.
FAQs
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Play therapy is a developmentally appropriate way for children to explore their feelings, experiences, and challenges. For kids, toys are like words and play is their language. Through play, children can express what’s difficult to put into words, and I can help them process, gain skills, and feel more regulated.
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Play therapy can help children:
Express emotions in safe and healthy ways
Build confidence and coping skills
Strengthen communication and problem-solving
Improve regulation and connection with caregivers
For families, play therapy often leads to greater understanding of a child’s needs and new strategies to support them at home.
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I work with children ages 5 and up, as well as teens and adults.
Children under 13: sessions are in person.
Teens (13+) and adults: sessions may be in person or virtual.
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Yes. Parent involvement is a central part of therapy. While children attend their own sessions, parents meet with me regularly for feedback, guidance, and skill-building. This partnership helps ensure progress continues at home.
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Play therapy may be helpful for children experiencing anxiety, ADHD, emotional outbursts, difficulty adjusting to change, grief, trauma, or trouble expressing themselves.
If you’re unsure, we can start with a free 15-minute phone consultation to talk through your questions and see whether it’s the right fit.
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The process begins with a parent intake session (in person or virtual). From there, your child attends three individual sessions. Afterward, we meet again as parents to review observations and set a plan for moving forward.
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Play therapy sessions: 45 minutes
Parent sessions: about once a month
Children usually attend weekly sessions
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It depends on your child’s needs and goals. Some children attend for a several months, while others benefit from longer-term support. We’ll review progress together to ensure therapy continues to be helpful.
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The playroom includes puppets, dolls, a sand tray, art supplies, games, and other carefully selected items that give children different ways to express themselves and practice new skills.
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For younger children, parents may be involved early on. Over time, most children benefit from having their own space. Parents aren’t in the playroom every session, but I stay in close contact with families through feedback meetings and regular communication.
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I currently accept Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) and also offer private pay. For families with other insurance providers, I provide an itemized bill (superbill) for possible out-of-network reimbursement. Please check your specific plan for details.
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Yes. If parents are separated or divorced, I require consent from both legal guardians before beginning therapy. This helps ensure the child is fully supported.
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I can provide an excused absence note for your child’s school if therapy is scheduled during school hours.
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My office is in Oakland County, Michigan. Directions and parking details are provided when you book your first session.
Virtual sessions are available for Michigan residents ages 13 and older. -
The first step is a free 15-minute phone consultation. We’ll talk through your concerns, answer questions, and see whether this approach feels like the right fit. You can email me at karieg@regulatewell.com.