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Child Therapy

How do I know if my child needs therapy ? 

While every child is different, many children experience developmental stresses throughout childhood. Childhood is a time of mastery and integration of new skills. Frustration and an ability to tolerate disappointment are just two emotional states that children must struggle with throughout their lives. Your child’s problems may be a passing phase and his or her symptoms may disappear as they mature. This is often the case. However, in some instances, your child’s problems may persist and interfere with school, friendships, and familial relationships. Your attempt to seek help can be very emotional. The process often begins after repeated efforts to work through the difficulties at home. You may also feel pressure from outside sources such as the child’s school or pediatrician. Many parents are relieved to find that they can receive support and understanding from a professional that respects their struggle to understand and help their child.

In therapy, children experience permission from the therapist to gain some distance and perspective on the problems that have interfered with their life. Therapy can be an arena for children to express their worries, fears and conflicts. A child’s symptoms and behavior may change after a short time in therapy, however, continued therapy may be indicated to insure that the behavior change can be maintained in the family and in other settings

Signs of Stress in your child may include:

  • Refusal to go to school
  • Opposition and negativism
  • Anger and irritability
  • Temper tantrums
  • Aggression
  • Complaints about friends
  • Bed-wetting
  • Appetite changes
  • Loss of interest in pleasurable activities
  • Nightmares
  • Problems separating from parents

 


The following are some experiences that children may need therapy to help resolve:

  • Parents Divorce
  • Birth of a Sibling
  • Illness
  • Grief
  • Substance Abuse in a parent
  • Learning Disabilities
  • Bullying
  • Witness to violence or a victim of violence
  • Adoption