CHILD PSYCHOTHERAPY

Understanding the unique needs of our younger clients, we offer psychotherapy services specifically designed for children and pre-teens.

What Is Child Psychotherapy?

Children can face many of the same psychological disorders as teens and adults. Anxiety and depression can happen to anyone at any age. Given that children frequently have difficulty putting their feelings into words, they require therapists who understand and specialize in their developmental and emotional needs.

Child psychotherapy can take a variety of forms. We often use “play therapy,” which relies on using the language of a child’s projective and imaginary play to provide a greater understanding of the young client’s emotions.  Pre-teens will often engage in more traditional “talk therapy,” but specialized techniques may be used to help create an easier way for him/her to relate. 

Additionally, we work in collaboration with the child’s parents, gathering relevant information and suggesting possible behavior interventions at home.  If additional services are needed, such as medication or further evaluations, we will offer appropriate referrals. 

How Can Child Psychotherapy Help My Child or Pre-Teen?

Child therapy can help not only your child but the entire family as well. As a parent, you’ll benefit from increased confidence as you gain the insights, tools, and strategies you need to help your child. And as your child develops more tools to manage their feelings and behaviors, the whole family is likely to experience relief and communicate more effectively.

Common issues addressed in child psychotherapy include:

• Behavior problems

• Academic trouble

• Defiance towards authority figures

• Depression and anxiety

• ADD/ADHD

• Social problems

• Loss and grief

• Adjustment to recent changes in family or school

• PTSD and trauma

How Do I Know If My Child or Pre-Teen Needs Therapy?

If your typically balanced child starts to teeter towards worrisome behaviors, such as isolation, self-harm, a drop in academic performance, or acting out toward others, it might be appropriate to seek professional guidance. Given that most children are sensitive, any drastic or concerning change in their behavior may be a red flag.

The CDC estimates that one in six children between the ages of two and eight have a mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder. Early treatment is key. Children often have a harder time coping with depression and anxiety than adults. Without guidance or the right tools to manage their emotions, it is not only their behavior that is negatively affected but their perception of themselves and the world around them as well.

Counseling can prevent children from taking negative coping strategies into adulthood. Whether your child is having a particularly difficult time through a developmental transition or is suffering from a mental or behavioral disorder, finding help from a trained therapist can be the first step in developing a happier and healthier version of themselves. Whether quickly or gradually, depending on the unique personality of your child, you’ll begin to notice positive changes, from a decrease in outbursts to improved self-soothing and emotional management, increased social activity, better grades in school, and healthier communication at home.

 Parenting doesn’t come with a handbook. 

*In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we continue to offer telemental health sessions.*

If you’re interested in learning more about psychotherapy for your child — or parenting support for yourself — please contact us by submitting this form, or by phone at 847-729-3034. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have.