Child Therapy

Emotions are complicated, especially for kids.

Sometimes, It can be tricky to help kids understand their own feelings and work through their problems in traditional ways. Child therapy takes a unique approach to work through emotions, stressors, and trauma through a kid’s own language, Play!

In the session, counselors will provide praise, support, and opportunities for growth. Children can learn adaptive skills and create healthy mindsets that can be used throughout their entire life. Therapy is tailored to the child’s individual needs. Parents may be asked to be a part of the session to assist with learning a skill, problem-solving issues, or encouraging healthy attachment.

At the child’s first appointment, the therapist will meet with the child and the parent(s).

“It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.”

— Frederick Douglass, abolitionist and statesman

This way the therapist can better understand experiences from the child and the parent’s perspective on the issues. Information will be provided on the process of counseling, the counselor’s background, protections for clients, and limits of confidentiality utilizing developmentally appropriate language for children. The therapist will ask questions and listen to the family’s needs to help determine goals and establish a treatment plan.

Sessions for children may look a bit different than a typical adult counseling experience.

Kids will be able to do fun activities, such as drawing, playing games, blowing bubbles, and many other creative approaches to learn skills to help them succeed. These activities allow them to learn appropriate social skills through role play and games, breathing techniques and mindfulness through unique exercises, and expressing their emotions through drawing and painting. Kids will be able to talk through experiences in a safe environment and gain confidence in being themselves through play.

Every child is different.

Because of this, the length of time in therapy can differ from kid to kid. Some children are seen weekly for a few months, while others may be seen up to a year. The length of time depends on the child’s individual needs, number of goals, and type of therapist.

Initially, beginning therapy for children and parents can be a stressful experience. In selecting a counselor, consider consulting the child’s primary care physician or the parent’s insurance provider network. Also, parents should make sure their children attend their appointments regularly to gain the full potential of therapy. Increase the time spent with children during this time to foster the support they need through the process. Parents are encouraged to utilize positive reinforcement to empower their child as they learn new skills and develop confidence in themselves.