Child Therapy

When working with children, we involve the family while respecting the client’s confidentiality unless there are concerns about harm to self or others. Our approach combines talk therapy with relevant activities, such as play, movement, or art therapy, tailored to the child’s needs. We encourage children to share insights with their parents while maintaining a safe therapeutic space. Sessions may include one-on-one therapy and occasional family sessions to reinforce progress. Our goal is to address a variety of mental health and situational concerns. If we determine that our services may not fully meet your needs, we’ll refer you to another professional in our network.

Child therapy involves a blend of individual and family sessions, incorporating play therapy, art, music, and sports to promote overall growth and wellness while addressing your child’s specific challenges.

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Mental Health Conditions We Treat for Children

Parents may seek professional mental health counseling for their child for various reasons, such as helping them cope with intense emotions or fostering self-awareness. Our services address a wide array of issues, including but not limited to:

Emotional Regulation: Teaching children coping skills to manage emotions like anger, sadness, and anxiety.
Play Therapy: Utilizing play-based techniques to help children express themselves and work through emotional challenges.
Social Skills Development: Assisting children in building healthy relationships, making friends, and understanding social cues.
Family Dynamics: Addressing family conflicts, communication issues, and promoting positive interactions within the family unit.
Behavior Management: Providing strategies for parents and caregivers to address challenging behaviors in children.
Trauma and Abuse: Supporting children who have experienced trauma or abuse through therapy and interventions.
Anxiety and Phobias: Helping children cope with fears, worries, and specific phobias through gradual exposure and relaxation techniques.
Attention and Focus: Assisting children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or difficulties in maintaining focus and attention.
School Issues: Addressing academic challenges, bullying, school refusal, and adjustment to school transitions.
Self-Esteem Building: Promoting a positive self-image and teaching children to value themselves and their abilities.
Parent-Child Relationship: Strengthening the bond between parents and children through therapy and communication skills training.
Coping with Grief and Loss: Supporting children through the grieving process following the loss of a loved one or pet.
Divorce or Family Separation: Helping children navigate the emotional impact of divorce or separation within the family.
Developmental Transitions: Assisting children in adjusting to developmental milestones such as starting preschool, transitioning to middle school, etc.
Sensory Processing Issues: Addressing sensory sensitivities and providing sensory integration therapy for children with sensory processing disorder (SPD).
Attachment Issues: Supporting children in building secure attachments and addressing attachment-related challenges.
Expressive Arts Therapy: Using art, music, and creative expression as therapeutic tools for children to process emotions and experiences.
Cognitive-Behavioral Techniques: Teaching children cognitive restructuring and problem-solving skills to challenge negative thoughts and behaviors.

Play Therapy for Children

Play Therapy is one of many therapeutic approachs specifically designed for children, utilizing play as a means of communication and expression. It’s based on the understanding that play is essential for a child’s development and well-being, serving as their natural language. Through play, children can express thoughts, feelings, and experiences that they may not have the verbal language to articulate. Play Therapy is conducted by trained mental health professionals who strategically utilize play to help children address and resolve their own problems, build coping skills, and enhance their emotional and social development.

It provides a safe and supportive environment where children can explore their concerns, learn new ways of relating to others, and develop healthier behaviors. Research supports its effectiveness in treating a wide range of social, emotional, and behavioral issues in children. Sessions typically last 30 to 50 minutes and involve weekly meetings. Family involvement is often encouraged to support the child’s healing process and address any family-related issues contributing to the child’s difficulties.

Art Therapy for Children

Art Therapy is a therapeutic method that harnesses the power of creative expression to promote healing and growth. Through the use of various art materials and techniques, children are invited to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a non-verbal and symbolic way. Art Therapy recognizes that the creative process can bypass the limitations of language, allowing for deeper exploration and understanding of the self. Guided by trained art therapists, a child can access their inner thoughts, process emotions, and gain insight into their challenges.

Art Therapy sessions provide a safe and supportive space for self-expression and exploration, fostering personal empowerment and resilience. Research demonstrates the effectiveness of Art Therapy in addressing a wide range of psychological issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief. Sessions are typically tailored to the individual’s needs and preferences, offering a unique and transformative path towards healing and self-discovery.

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Additional Therapy Methods for Children

In addition to Play Therapy and Art Therapy, we also offer the following therapeutic approaches.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors to improve mood and behavior. It often involves teaching children coping skills and problem-solving techniques.
Behavior Therapy: Addresses specific behavioral issues by implementing strategies to reinforce positive behaviors and reduce negative ones through techniques such as rewards and consequences.
Sand Tray Therapy: Involves using a tray of sand and miniature figures to create scenes that represent the child’s inner world, allowing them to explore and process emotions and experiences in a non-verbal way.
Narrative Therapy: Focuses on helping children reframe their personal stories and narratives to empower them and promote resilience. It involves exploring alternative perspectives and creating new, more positive narratives.
Attachment-Based Therapy: Addresses issues related to attachment and bonding, often stemming from early childhood experiences. It emphasizes building secure relationships and trust with caregivers.
Solution-Focused Therapy: Concentrates on identifying and building upon the child’s strengths and resources to find solutions to their problems. It focuses on the present and future rather than dwelling on past issues.
Mindfulness-Based Interventions: Teaches children mindfulness techniques to increase awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations, promoting emotional regulation and stress reduction.
Coming Soon – Animal-Assisted Therapy: Involves incorporating trained animals into therapy sessions to provide comfort, companionship, and support to children. Interactions with animals can help reduce anxiety and improve mood.
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT): Focuses on improving the parent-child relationship and addressing behavioral issues by teaching parents specific skills for managing their child’s behavior effectively.
Drama Therapy: Utilizes drama techniques, such as role-playing and improvisation, to help children explore emotions, develop social skills, and gain insight into their behavior and relationships.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why might my child need therapy?

Children may benefit from therapy for various reasons, such as coping with stress, managing emotions, navigating family changes (like divorce or relocation), addressing behavioral issues, dealing with trauma, or improving social skills.

How do I know if my child needs therapy?

Signs that your child may benefit from therapy include changes in behavior, mood, or sleep patterns, difficulty coping with challenges, withdrawal from activities or friends, or expressing worries or fears that interfere with daily life.

What can I expect during my child's therapy sessions?

Therapy sessions are tailored to meet your child’s needs and may involve talking, play, art, or other activities. A therapist will create a safe and supportive environment for your child to express themselves and learn coping skills.

Will I be involved in my child's therapy?

Parental involvement varies depending on your child’s age and needs. In some cases, parents may participate in sessions or receive guidance from the therapist on how to support their child’s progress outside of therapy.

How long will my child need to attend therapy?

The duration of therapy depends on your child’s individual needs and progress. Some issues may be resolved in a few sessions, while others may require longer-term support. Your child’s therapist will discuss a treatment plan with you.

Will my child's therapist share what we discuss in sessions?

Therapists adhere to strict confidentiality guidelines, but they may share information with parents if it’s necessary for your child’s well-being. Your child’s privacy is respected, but communication between you and the therapist is important for supporting your child’s progress.

What qualifications should I look for in a child therapist?

Look for a therapist who specializes in working with children and families, has relevant training and experience, and is licensed or certified in their field. It’s also important to find someone who your child feels comfortable with and trusts.

How can I prepare my child for therapy?

Talk to your child about therapy in a positive and age-appropriate way, emphasizing that it’s a safe space to talk about feelings and get support. Encourage them to ask questions and express any concerns they may have.

What if my child doesn't want to go to therapy?

It’s normal for children to feel hesitant or nervous about therapy, especially if it’s their first time. Acknowledge their feelings, but gently encourage them to give it a try. Emphasize that therapy is a tool to help them feel better and cope with challenges.

How can I support my child's progress outside of therapy?

You can support your child’s progress by reinforcing the skills and strategies they learn in therapy, creating a supportive and nurturing environment at home, and staying involved in their treatment plan. Communicate openly with your child’s therapist and follow their recommendations for ongoing support.