Emotional regulation therapy in Miami, Florida and nearby areas
Big feelings can be beautiful, but they can also be overwhelming especially for children who haven’t yet learned how to name, understand, or process them. At Play2Learn Miami, we support emotional development through creative, sensory-informed therapy that helps children navigate their inner world with more peace and confidence.
What is emotional regulation?
Emotional regulation is the ability to manage and respond to intense emotions in a healthy, adaptive way. It’s not about avoiding feelings, it's about understanding them, building tools to respond calmly, and learning to bounce back from stressful situations. Children who struggle with regulation might seem easily frustrated, anxious, or reactive. They might act out, shut down, or appear “too sensitive.” At Play2Learn, I offer developmentally appropriate, trauma‑informed approaches that meet each child where they are and help them feel safe, seen, and supported.
Common signs of emotional regulation difficulties
- Frequent meltdowns or tantrums
- Difficulty calming down after distress
- Big reactions to small changes or frustrations
- Trouble identifying or naming emotions
- Avoidance or withdrawal in emotional situations
- Acting impulsively or aggressively when upset
How do I know if my child needs emotional regulation therapy?
Ask yourself:
- Does your child often feel overwhelmed by emotions?
- Are they having a hard time calming down after becoming upset?
- Do big emotions interfere with their relationships, play, or learning?
- Have teachers or caregivers expressed concern about emotional outbursts?
If you answered yes to any of these, emotional regulation therapy can be a helpful support.
How I support emotional regulation at Play2Learn Miami, FL and surrounding areas
My approach combines therapeutic strategies with play, nature, and gentle co‑regulation. I use:
- Social emotional learning activities (storytelling, art, movement)
- Emotion naming games and visual supports
- Breathing and grounding techniques to soothe the nervous system
- Parent collaboration to ensure consistency across home and school
- Sensory supports to manage overwhelm and overstimulation
Each session is tailored to your child’s unique emotional needs and strengths.
What topics can we work on in emotional regulation?
- Understanding the difference between feelings and behaviors
- Building a vocabulary to talk about emotions
- Practicing coping tools for stress, anger, or anxiety
- Learning to recognize emotional triggers and early warning signs
- Developing routines and tools for self-soothing
- Creating safety plans for moments of dysregulation
Ready to get started?
Step 1
A full in-home or on-site assessment to understand your child’s strengths, challenges, and daily environment.
Step 2
A personalized therapy plan focused on meaningful goals,whether it’s hitting developmental milestones, improving focus, or building independence.
Step 2
Ongoing hands-on sessions + parent coaching so progress sticks at home, school, and in the community.
We specialize in helping children learn to manage their emotions without fear or shame. We believe emotional intelligence is just as important as academic growth and that every child can learn to handle big feelings with the right support. Whether your child is dealing with frustration, anxiety, sadness, or anger, we help them find calm in the chaos and joy in their growing confidence.
Tips & resources for emotional regulation at home
- Use an emotions chart to help name what your child is feeling
- Practice deep breathing or “bubble breaths” together when upset
- Model calm responses and self-regulation in your own emotions
- Establish predictable routines and clear boundaries
- Celebrate effort and progress not just “perfect” behavior
- Create a “calm down corner” with sensory tools and soothing items
Hi, I´m Erika Váldes
A pediatric occupational therapist, former elementary school teacher, and plant ritual facilitator
Payment Plans & Details
Investment: $160 per 1-hour session (packages available for savings)
START NOWIncludes:
- Personalized 1:1 occupational therapy (in-home or community-based)
- Activities tailored to your child’s milestones, sensory needs + developmental goals
- Follow-up recommendations so you can keep progress going at home
- Ongoing email support for quick check-ins between sessions
Evaluations: Comprehensive OT Evaluation – $450 (60–90 minutes)
START NOWIncludes:
- Full developmental + functional skills assessment
- Written report with individualized recommendations
- Treatment plan + home + school suggestions
- Review of findings + action plan with caregivers
Popular Packages
START NOWIncludes:
- 10-Session Growth Package – $1,450 (Save $150)
- 5-Session Starter Package – $750 (Save $50)
Additional Options
START NOWIncludes:
- 45-minute sessions available depending on your child’s need
- Step up for students provider
- Sensory schedules + daily routines
- School support & collaboration
FAQ
What age is best to start emotional regulation therapy?
It’s never too early. Even toddlers can begin learning emotional vocabulary and calming techniques. Early intervention often leads to stronger long-term skills.
Can emotional regulation therapy help with ADHD or anxiety?
Yes. Many children with ADHD, anxiety, or sensory differences benefit from learning how to manage emotions and reduce overwhelm through structured support.
How long does it take to see progress in emotional regulation?
Progress varies, but with consistency and caregiver support, many families notice changes in how their child reacts to stress within 4–8 sessions.
Do I need a diagnosis to begin therapy?
No diagnosis is required. We work with children based on their needs and behaviors, not just labels or paperwork.
What can I do at home to support my child’s regulation?
Modeling calm behavior, using emotional language, maintaining routines, and practicing co‑regulation (calming together) all support what we do in session.
