Sleep Disorders

Sleep is essential for a child’s overall development, affecting their emotional regulation, cognitive function, physical health, and general well-being. Unfortunately, sleep disorders in children are more common than many people realize, and they can lead to a range of issues, from irritability and difficulty concentrating to more serious long-term consequences. Shiva Movafaghian, a seasoned psychotherapist and certified play therapist, brings a wealth of experience and a compassionate approach to helping children and families navigate and resolve sleep disturbances. Her extensive background in child and youth mental health, combined with a deep understanding of brain plasticity and neuroscience-based interventions, makes her uniquely qualified to address these challenges.

Sleep disorders can take many forms, including nightmares, night terrors, sleepwalking, insomnia, and difficulty falling or staying asleep. Shiva approaches each case by first conducting a thorough assessment to understand the specific nature of the sleep disorder and any contributing factors. This initial phase includes gathering information about the child’s bedtime routines, sleep environment, daily habits, and any stressors or anxieties that may be affecting their sleep. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of each child’s sleep patterns and routines, Shiva can create a highly personalized and effective treatment plan.

One of the cornerstone methods Shiva uses to address sleep disorders is behavioral intervention. This involves helping children and their parents establish healthy sleep habits and routines, which are crucial for promoting restful and restorative sleep. Shiva works with families to create a consistent bedtime routine that signals to the child’s brain that it’s time to wind down. These routines often include calming activities such as reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation techniques. The aim is to create a predictable and soothing environment that helps the child feel safe and ready for sleep.

Shiva also employs mindfulness-based practices to help children who struggle with sleep due to anxiety or an overactive mind. Techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation, deep breathing exercises, and guided imagery are tailored to each child’s developmental stage and comfort level. These exercises help activate the body’s relaxation response, reducing physical symptoms of anxiety like a racing heart or tense muscles. Shiva’s expertise in neuroscience allows her to explain these techniques in a way that makes sense to children, teaching them how to calm their minds and bodies before bedtime. By incorporating mindfulness, children learn to associate bedtime with feelings of safety and relaxation, rather than stress or fear.

For children who experience nightmares or night terrors, Shiva uses play therapy and cognitive-behavioral techniques to help them process their fears. Nightmares are often a reflection of unresolved anxiety or trauma, and play therapy provides a non-threatening way for children to express and work through these emotions. By reenacting dreams or creating alternative, positive outcomes through play, children can regain a sense of control and security. Shiva also teaches parents how to respond supportively when their child wakes up from a nightmare, reinforcing feelings of safety and comfort.

When working with cases of insomnia, Shiva explores both the psychological and environmental factors that may be contributing to the problem. She educates families about the impact of screen time, diet, and exercise on sleep quality. By helping parents establish a sleep-conducive environment—such as keeping the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet—Shiva ensures that every possible factor is optimized for better sleep. In addition to these practical strategies, she uses cognitive-behavioral techniques to address any unhelpful thoughts or worries that may be keeping the child awake. For instance, if a child lies in bed worrying about school or feeling anxious about being alone, Shiva helps them reframe these thoughts and develop more calming mental habits.

Shiva’s approach to treating sleep disorders is holistic, meaning she considers not only the child’s psychological needs but also the well-being of the entire family. Parent coaching is an integral part of her treatment plan. She teaches parents how to set and maintain boundaries around sleep, how to use calming language and techniques, and how to reinforce positive sleep behaviors. Workshops for parents may include tips on how to deal with resistance at bedtime, how to handle sleep disruptions, and how to create a supportive sleep environment. By involving parents, Shiva ensures that the child’s progress is supported at home, maximizing the effectiveness of therapy.

Moreover, Shiva understands that sleep disorders can be intertwined with other challenges, such as ADHD or anxiety disorders. Her interdisciplinary approach allows her to address these co-occurring conditions comprehensively. She may collaborate with educators, pediatricians, or other specialists to ensure that the child’s needs are being met across all areas of their life. Through this well-rounded and empathetic approach, Shiva helps children develop healthier sleep habits and equips families with the tools they need to ensure lasting, positive change.