Therapy for Children
You want nothing but the best for your child…
… but they’re struggling.
There’s so much to navigate during childhood, like friend groups, doing more things on their own, trying new sports or activities, and increasing school demands. Sometimes kids get stuck and need help to make their way through.
Or there are times when children go through tough challenges in life, like moving or a new school, being left out of peer groups, having attention or learning problems, losing someone close to them, or going through something traumatic.
In the wake of these experiences, children can become completely overwhelmed, and their distress can manifest itself in so many ways:
Feeling afraid and clinging to caregivers for comfort, especially at bedtime
New fears that won’t budge despite reassurance that there’s nothing to fear
Withdrawal from peers and activities or lacking the confidence to try something new
Sadness, crying easily, or getting down on himself
Trouble concentrating, avoiding school, or falling behind in academics
Becoming irritable or getting upset with a simple of requests.
Being overly sensitive and critical of herself when she makes mistakes.
As a parent or caregiver, it’s hard to watch your child experience these difficulties.
All you want is for things to be easier for your child.
You have tried all you know to help…
… but they’re still struggling.
As a dedicated parent, you are in tune with your child’s needs and have addressed your child’s other challenges with success.
This feels different, though.
The burden of trying to make things better on your own can be exhausting for parents.
I’ll partner with you to support your child’s emotional well-being.
First, I’ll meet with you to learn about your child’s struggles, and you can meet me before I meet your child. It is important that you feel comfortable with your child’s therapist. We may meet several times so I can learn as much as I can about your child. The more I know upfront, the more help I can be.
I’ll teach you how to handle your child’s unique challenges so you can feel more confident in your parenting. Depending upon your child’s needs, I can:
- Show you ways to respond to your child’s emotions that will help your child feel heard and less likely to act out
- Teach you ways to support your child to face fears and anxieties gradually
- Help you figure out what sets off your child’s meltdowns, so you can better understand your child’s perspective
- Learn ways to help your child regulate their emotions when they are angry, upset, or anxious
- Help you identify supports and strategies to help your child adjust to new routines or expectations
When your child feels heard and supported, you will both feel more connected to each other. After all, you are the most crucial person in your child’s life.
I also partner with parents to explore what’s beneath the surface. For example, if you (or other family members) are going through a difficult time, it may be affecting your child despite your best attempts to shield them.
Family stress tends to trickle down, and anxiety can be contagious, particularly with sensitive children. By working together to find ways to reduce family stressors, your child’s symptoms may subside more quickly.
Children don’t sit on the couch and start talking about their problems.
Children express themselves more easily through play. It’s how they make sense of their world and communicate what they’re feeling inside.
During play therapy, the child takes the lead, and I follow. I have toys, games, and art supplies in my office for children to play with. On the outside, it might look like we are “just playing.” But we’re not.
A child’s play is a lens into their inner world. I pay close attention to patterns in their play. This puts me in a unique position to help. I give language to their expressions, help them connect their feelings to their behaviors, and provide a safe space for them to rework tough experiences.
Children love play therapy! It doesn’t feel like school or work. It’s much less intimidating than just talking, and children benefit in so many ways. It helps them learn to put words to their feelings, build confidence, and improve their ability to cope with problems.
Depending on your child’s needs, play therapy can also be coupled with some practical coping skills.
I’m here. Let me help you and your child…
As a therapist who works with both children and adults, I understand that when childhood issues go unaddressed, they often surface in adulthood.
Therapy for your child can be a gift that lasts a lifetime.
If your child is struggling and you need help, please reach out today: (513) 289-1092.