Written By: Hannah Sawyer, BSW, Clinical Intern
Written By: Hannah Sawyer, BSW, Clinical Intern
Conflict among siblings is normal and developmentally expected in a family unit. For parents of multiple children, emotional outbursts, frequent arguments, and persistent rivalry can be defeating and stressful to navigate. One helpful tool, or perspective shift, is to observe and understand how children respond to conflict rather than focusing on what they are arguing about. Research has shown three recurring conflict-response dynamics in young children: the peacemaker, the prosecutor, and the volcano (Buist et al., 2013). It is important to note that these roles are not diagnoses or personality traits. They are simply the adapted coping responses to conflict developed during early childhood. With consistent support, these coping strategies can be improved and built upon at a developmentally appropriate level.
A 2003 study indicates that sibling relationships are more emotionally driven and lessregulated than other interpersonal relationships (Tucker et al., 2003). Sibling relationships areunique in that they are one of the longest relationships an individual may have, spanning birth to death. Because young children’s minds are highly malleable during the formative early years and do not reach peak development until approximately age 25, self-regulation, assertivecommunication, and moral reasoning skills are ongoing learning processes.
Individuals who adopt the peacemaker conflict role are susceptible to emotional tension. They apologize quickly, even when they are not responsible, to maintain peace and harmony. While empathy and adaptability are strengths, an over-reliance or need to avoid conflict can limitthe development of assertive communication skills. As a parent, you can support your child who maintains the peacemaker role by encouraging your child to identify and advocate for their boundaries and needs. The peacemaker child may require reassurance that disagreements are normal and will not fracture relationships if discussed respectfully.
Parent Language Example: “It is okay to voice your needs while prioritizing peace”.
The prosecutor’s conflict style prioritizes fairness and predictability, notable in early childhood. These children are rigid but logical and struggle to let conflict go once it begins. The prosecutor role is concerned with “who is right” and “who started it”. As a parent, you can support your child in the prosecutor role by reducing focus from rule enforcement to highlighting independent problem solving. Over time, this can reduce the child’s reliance on adult arbitration in sibling conflict.
Parent Language Example: I understand that fairness is important to you. Why don’t we think of a solution instead of deciding who is right?
The volcano conflict style in young children reflects limited emotion regulation skills, often resulting in hitting, throwing, and yelling when upset. These children have difficulty stopping emotional outbursts once started due to dysregulation and a lack of coping skills. As a parent, you can support your child in the volcano conflict role by identifying escalation cues and rehearsing calming strategies outside of arguments or conflicts.
Parent Language Example: “Your body looks really upset. Why don’t we take a few deep breaths together?”
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Hi, I’m Nicola, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned my Master’s degree in Social Work with a clinical concentration in the fall of 2020 from Walden University. I work with both teens (16+) and adults, and I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals through a wide range of challenges including anxiety, depress, trauma, OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), and life transitions. It is my goal to create a safe and welcoming space where you feel seen, heard, and valued. We will work collaboratively to develop a plan that feels best for you that fosters insight, emotional balance, and lasting, meaningful growth.
I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a powerful, evidence-based approach that helps process trauma and difficult memories. PS-R (Practice Self-Regulation) is another trauma-informed, evidence-based modality I use that empowers individuals to navigate challenges, regulate their emotions, and move toward healthier, more fulfilling futures. I also integrate cognitive therapy, mindfulness, and mind-body awareness with creative approaches to help individuals connect more deeply with themselves.
In my free time, I love to hike or do anything outdoors, crochet for my friends and family, or try a new baking recipe.
When you feel ready, I’d love to hear from you. I’m here to walk this journey with you.
“Hi, I’m Christine, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate. I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Syracuse University in the fall of 2023. I work with both adults and children (ages 10+), and I’ve had the opportunity to support clients through a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, and life transitions.
I’ve received training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Play Therapy. While I use elements of these approaches, I primarily work from an eclectic and person-centered framework, meaning I tailor my approach to each client’s unique needs and goals. My priority is to create a space that is safe, accepting, and judgment-free—where you feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow.
I am an LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent-affirming counselor, and I deeply value the uniqueness and complexity of every individual. I believe in meeting you where you are and walking alongside you as you navigate whatever you’re going through.
When I’m not in the therapy room, I enjoy listening to old music, visiting local coffee shops, going on walks, and spending time with my cat, Mushu.
Whenever you feel ready to start therapy, please reach out and we can come up with a plan together.”
Hi, I’m Hannah, a second-year Master’s level counseling student currently completing my clinical training. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of South Carolina, and I’ve been dedicated to helping others navigate life’s challenges ever since.
My background includes a year-long internship with Lexington County DSS, and I’m a Certified Victims Advocate through Pathways to Healing. I’ve worked closely with children and adolescents in foster care and the juvenile justice system, and while I specialize in working with younger clients, I also welcome the opportunity to support adults.
In therapy, I use a variety of approaches to meet each person’s unique needs. These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and play therapy. My goal is always to create a safe, supportive environment where you feel comfortable exploring what’s going on and working toward meaningful growth. In my free time, I love going to concerts, discovering new music, and getting lost in a good book.
Starting therapy can feel like a big step, but you don’t have to do it alone. I’m here to walk with you, and I’d be honored to be part of your journey.
Hi, I’m Ashley, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. In 2021 I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. I opened Yellow Door Counseling in 2024.
My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, comfortable, and truly heard. I believe therapy should be a place where you can show up exactly as you are, without judgment. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or simply feeling stuck, you don’t have to go through it alone.
I work primarily with teens (ages 10+) and adults, and I’ve had the privilege of supporting clients through many different life experiences. I’m trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a powerful, evidence-based approach that helps process trauma and difficult memories. I also incorporate cognitive and person-centered techniques, and I love bringing creativity into our work through art, music, and mindfulness practices when it fits your goals.
No two people are the same, and I’ll collaborate with you to create a personalized plan that feels right for you.
When I’m not in session, you can usually find me reading a good book, trying out new restaurants, or cuddling my sweet French bulldog, Lucy.
If you’re thinking about starting therapy, I’d love to hear from you. You deserve support, and I’m here when you’re ready.