Kaleigh McMillan Paine, M.A., PLPC

08/20/2025

✨Healing Through the Eyes of a Child✨

Kids are the best teachers—without even trying. They show us that healing isn’t complicated: it’s laughter, connection, and the courage to try again after a hard moment 💛🌈

08/19/2025

08/14/2025

So good!!!

08/13/2025

Good morning ☀️

08/11/2025

From TF-CBT to Play Therapy, Attachment Theory to TBRI — these are some of my most-used approaches in the therapy room. 💛 Each one offers kids and families tools to heal, connect, and grow!

08/05/2025

💛 The Invisible String 💛

One of my absolute favorite books to use in session — The Invisible String by Patrice Karst — is a powerful and comforting story for children dealing with separation anxiety, grief, or feeling far from someone they love.

It gently teaches that we’re always connected to the people we love, no matter the distance, no matter what.

Whether it’s a parent going to work, a move to a new place, or the loss of someone special… this book helps kids understand that love doesn’t go away—it stretches, it holds, and it remains.

📚 I use this story often in sessions to help children feel safe, seen, and supported.

If your child is struggling with big feelings around being apart, I highly recommend sharing this story with them. 💕

07/30/2025

It doesn’t always make life easier… but it does make it a little less heavy ✨

07/30/2025

there is no shame in being human.
making human decisions, human mistakes, feeling human emotions. you are as you should be 💖

07/30/2025

07/29/2025

Positive reinforcement goes a long way 💛

When we notice and name the good things our kids are doing, it builds confidence, connection, and motivation.

✨ Try shifting from “good job” to specific, encouraging words.

The more we point out what’s working, the more likely it is to grow! 🌱

07/29/2025

Is There a Difference Between Shame and Guilt? 🤔

Yep—and it’s a big one.

💭 Guilt says: “I made a mistake.”
💭 Shame says: “I am a mistake.”

Guilt can guide us—it helps us recognize when we’ve done something that doesn’t align with our values. It invites change and repair.

But shame? Shame attacks who we are. It often leads to silence, hiding, and self-blame. And when kids feel shame, it can deeply impact how they see themselves.

💛 Want to support emotional growth? Help children (and yourself!) separate what they did from who they are.

We all mess up. But we’re still worthy of love, connection, and growth.