Five of the eight phases of human development occur from birth to adolescence. Each stage presents specific challenges for children and adolescents. Mental health problems can exacerbate these challenges. In many instances, mental health issues can be caused directly from life events. Whether those events are traumatic experiences, such as being bullied, or ordinary experiences like moving to a new home, each child responds differently to changes in their life.
At times, parents find it hard to know if a change in a child is a normal part of development or something more serious is causing the child to behave differently. When issues cause the child’s relationships in the family to falter and there are problems at school or with their peers, many children are not able to articulate what is happening. Oftentimes, parents can sense when something is wrong, but they do not know what to do to help.
If you can relate, you’re not alone. Each day, parents rely on child therapy to provide support and understanding for their children and family members. Thriveworks Child Therapy in Columbia, SC has experience working with children and their families to help them identify the causes of behavioral and emotional struggles that children face today. Our licensed and highly train child counselors can provide the support your child needs. (803) 477-3736
How Do I Know if My Child Needs Therapy?
Each child responds differently to changes in life. A child’s age, gender, and other factors influence their resilience to changes and challenges in life. Younger children and boys, for example, often have an easier time adjusting to divorce than do girls or older children. Genetics also play a role, as some mental health issues, like bipolar disorder, tend to run in families.
According to the National Institute on Mental Illness, about four million children and adolescents experience a mental health issue that significantly impairs them at home, at school or in their social networks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates prevalence rates for the following diagnosable mental health conditions among children ages three to 17 years old.
“How do I know if my child need therapy?” Your child or adolescent may benefit from child or adolescent therapy if:
- He or she has struggles in more than one area of life
- Shows excessive anxiety or worry
- Loses confidence or show an increase in self-doubt
- Experiences hopelessness
- Begins to withdraw from family and friends
- Engages in self-destructive behavior
- Has changes in sleep habits
- Displays an increase in aggression
- Talks about or engages in self-harm
- Makes statements, such as, “I wish I could disappear,” or “no one would miss me if I were gone.”
- Openly talks about suicide
Child counseling can help children and caregivers learn how to express emotions in acceptable ways, resolve difficulties in a safe manner, and find health to face challenges.
What is Adolescent or Teen Therapy?
Teens face many changes, and sometimes it’s difficult to be able to tell what is normal or when to see a therapist. This is the phase when they exert their independence, and they are facing many pressures–performing well in high school, getting high scores on the SAT, and checking the mailbox in hopes of finding a college acceptance. Relationships with friends and boyfriends/girlfriends are all-important to them, and sometimes the pressures of these relationships can cause numerous strains on the teen.
While it is important to note that children respond in different ways to the various changes in life, some of the events that may impact adolescent mental health include:
- Parental divorce or separation
- The birth of a sibling
- The death of a loved one
- Physical or sexual abuse
- Poverty or homelessness
- Natural disaster
- Domestic violence
- Moving to a new place or attending a new school
- Being physically or emotionally bullied
- Taking on more responsibility than is appropriate for their age
How Does Child or Teen Therapy Work?
Thriveworks Child and Adolescent Counselors are fully licensed and have undergone years of training. Our Columbia child therapists specialize in working with children. Our Columbia adolescent therapist recognize that teens aren’t ready to be adults, but they don’t want to be treated like children either. Our therapists work with children and teens to develop strategies to express themselves, develop greater levels of self-control, and make better decisions in life.
Thriveworks Child and Adolescent Therapy in Columbia, SC creates a safe and secure setting for children and adolescents to understand their struggles and develop healthy coping skills. We incorporate cognitive behavior therapy, play therapy, and talk to help you and your child achieve his or her goals.
We offer convenient day, evening, and weekend hours to help you find a time that works best for your busy schedule. We accept most major insurance plans, so getting help may be more affordable than you thought. Plus, we don’t believe you should have to wait to get an appointment. We have no wait list for treatment – you can often get an appointment in 24 hours. Call today to schedule an appointment at Thriveworks Child and Adolescent Therapy. Your child can Thrive, we can help! (803) 477-3736
LGBTQIA+, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, Stress, Women’s Issues, +6 more 
