Therapy is not just for adults; in fact, young people can benefit significantly from children’s therapy for a wide range of challenges. Depression, anxiety, trauma, social problems, and more are all issues that a therapist can help with, equipping children with the tools they need to understand themselves and succeed—all while making this information accessible and even fun for young people.
However, parents may feel hesitant to sign their children up for therapy, citing concerns ranging from the child’s stress at meeting new people to the misconception that treatment will retrigger trauma. In reality, it can be difficult to tell when—and how—a child may benefit from therapy.
Here are some important signs and behavioral patterns that may indicate when a child could benefit from therapy.
When Is Children’s Therapy Required?
Children may need therapy for various reasons. Some of the signs that parents should watch for include:
Intense Moods That Do Not Subside
It is normal for a child to feel sad, anxious, or angry sometimes. However, if these emotions persist, worsen over time, or seem to keep a child trapped in a negative cycle, the child could benefit from guidance from a child-focused therapist. Addressing these challenges before they begin to impact the child’s social and academic opportunities is helpful.
Sleep Problems
Some sleep issues can be caused by medical conditions, but others result from mental health concerns. Insomnia, sleeping too much, or even experiencing intense night terrors could all point to the need for children’s therapy. A therapist can pinpoint any potential emotional drivers behind a child’s sleep schedule and help them create healthier routines they are excited to stick to.
Disordered Eating
Children learn from the world around them, and sometimes, what they learn can encourage them to slip into unhealthy patterns of eating. Whether they seem insatiable at all times or barely nibble on their food, they could fall victim to disordered eating that may transition into anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, or any of a wide range of unhealthy challenges. A therapist can help a child reestablish a healthy relationship with food.
Concerning Comments
Children are still learning emotional regulation, discretion, and conversational nuance—but if a child makes inappropriate comments or indicates underlying issues, parents should take them seriously.
Pay attention to statements that are out of character or have significant consequences, such as “I wish I weren’t here,” “I wish [person or animal] would die,” or “No one would notice if I didn’t come home.” A therapist can help a child gain insight into the drivers behind these feelings and direct them toward healthier coping behaviors.
Self-harm or Sabotaging Behavior
Children may not always know how to look out for their best interests, but if they gradually increase self-harming behaviors, it is time to see a therapist. Problematic activities include skin picking, hair pulling, use of objects to cause harm (such as giving themselves paper cuts), or direct mentions of suicide.
Isolation
Even quiet children typically have activities or friend groups that resonate with them. Parents should take note if a child suddenly begins to withdraw physically and socially from activities, people, or places that formerly made them happy. A therapist can explain why the child no longer feels like themselves and help them chart a course toward a happy, thriving life.
Tips for Utilizing Resources and Choosing a Children’s Therapy Professional
Once parents understand that therapy would be helpful for their child, they must choose a professional to trust with this process. School counselors may have useful resources, such as a list of local therapists who see children. As parents consider their decision, they should review the entirety of any potential therapist’s skills and history, including:
- Licensure
- Areas of focus
- Success in previous patient relationships
- Accessibility of office location and scheduling
- General child-friendly demeanor
- Child-safe office
- Types of therapeutic methodology
It is helpful to find therapists who work with children who have experienced distress similar to what parents are seeking help for. When possible, the child should meet the therapist before the first appointment to build rapport.
Help Through Children’s Therapy
Children may still be developing, but this does not mean that they cannot face the same challenges with anxiety, trauma, depression, eating disorders, and more that adults can. If your child is demonstrating behaviors or attitudes that are unlike them or generally problematic to their social, physical, and academic wellness, a good therapist can help.
The professionals at Village Counseling are happy to welcome children to our offices for a wide variety of needs. Contact Village Counseling today to schedule a children’s therapy appointment.