Image of a therapist and client in a counseling session.

6,431 people sought child therapy help in Massachusetts in the last year

Discover how starting child therapy can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.

Meet with a provider as soon as this week

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Carelon, +18 more
Anger, Behavioral Issues, Men’s Issues, Stress, Bipolar Disorder, +2 more

As a human being, I understand the myriad of psychiatric, psychological, and mental health problems that humans face throughout their formative years,... As a human being, I understand the myriad of psychiatric, psychological, and mental health problems that humans face throughout their formative years, adolescence, young adulthood, and mid-adulthood. Read more

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card), +23 more
Stress, Anxiety, Depression

As a psychiatric nurse working in Boston, MA, I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate and comprehensive mental health services to my pa... As a psychiatric nurse working in Boston, MA, I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate and comprehensive mental health services to my patients. Read more

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card), +20 more
LGBTQIA+, Anger, Behavioral Issues, Infidelity, Men’s Issues, +11 more

As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I believe a strong therapeutic relationship is key to your success in therapy, where you can expect to be free ... As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I believe a strong therapeutic relationship is key to your success in therapy, where you can expect to be free of judgment while trusting that I have the knowledge and expertise to help you work through the issues that brought you here. Read more

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO), +20 more
Behavioral Issues, Stress, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, OCD / Obsessive-Compulsive, +5 more

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO), +18 more
Anger, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, Self Esteem, Stress, +13 more

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card), +23 more
Stress, Women’s Issues, OCD / Obsessive-Compulsive, Sleep / Insomnia, Anxiety, +2 more

I understand the complex and dynamic needs associated with mental health challenges—and can help you fulfill those needs.

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card), +23 more
Anger, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, Self Esteem, Stress, +7 more

As a nurse who has been practicing nursing for over 20 years and a Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator (of 10 years as well) working for a major cit... As a nurse who has been practicing nursing for over 20 years and a Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator (of 10 years as well) working for a major city hospital in Massachusetts; caring for a wide ethnic group as well as young adults to geriatric population; working with many patients with mental health and substance abuse disorders in the in-patient and outpatient settings, I have practically seen it all and recognize some of the barriers to healthcare that the vulnerable and underserved population face therefore can understand the stigmatization and difficulty associated with caring for such group. Read more

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO), +19 more
Autism, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, OCD / Obsessive-Compulsive, Postpartum / Pregnancy, +3 more

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO), +19 more
Coping Skills, Self Esteem, Stress, Women’s Issues, ADHD, +4 more

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO), +19 more
Anger, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, Infidelity, Self Esteem, +10 more

Starting Child therapy

What is child therapy?

Child therapy, also known as counseling for kids, helps young individuals better understand and manage the challenges that affect their mental health. Common challenges amongst kids include behavioral issues, trauma, bullying, depression, and anxiety. All ages of children can attend and benefit from child-therapy at Thriveworks Cambridge.

How does child therapy work?

Child therapy works by using multiple techniques, tailored to fit the child’s needs based on their age group, their challenges, and the severity of their challenges. It might involve play therapy for younger kids or cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, art therapy, and others for varying ages. In any case, Thriveworks child therapists in Cambridge, MA have the expertise and experience to help kids at their level.

Play therapy vs child therapy

Child therapy is a type of therapy meant for clients within a specific age group, while play therapy is an approach to therapy that helps children with self-expression and stress relief, among others. Play therapy is a technique that is often used in child therapy to help children express what’s running through their minds when they do not have the words to express their thoughts and emotions. It can get children to express what’s wrong, what might be causing unwanted behaviors or what they might need, in a way that is accessible to them so that therapists can then work to treat the issue.

How to tell if my child needs counseling

It’s not always obvious when a child should see a therapist for their behavior, though in the midst of challenges like divorce, loss, bullying, and other mental health conditions, it’s often a good idea to seek it out. Common behaviors that can indicate a need for child therapy include separation anxiety, bedwetting (at inappropriate ages), and agitation/excessive irritability — especially if it reaches a point of physical violence.

What type of therapy is best for children?

Cognitive behavioral therapy at Thriveworks in Cambridge, MA is one of the best types of therapy for children. However, it can be administered in child therapy sessions in a variety of ways that are more accessible to young minds, such as play therapy.

Is child therapy conducted in person or online?

Child therapy at Thriveworks is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.

How long does child therapy last?

The length of child therapy depends on your child’s needs as well as the goals that you and their therapist might have for them. Generally, child therapy sessions will last for several months.

How much does child therapy cost?

At Thriveworks, we take most major forms of insurance, which means that many of our clients only pay a $0-$50 co-pay per session. However, there are also self-pay options that sit around $200 per session, depending on the service and location, for those who are out-of-network.

Need more help deciding?

Something being wrong with your child is every parent’s worst nightmare. Even the slightest cough or fever can strike fear in a mother or father’s heart.

When your child’s mental health is in question, that fear can be even greater.”

Mental health issues in your child can make it seem as if the child is not even the same person you loved to snuggle with and read books to at night. It can seem like the disorder has taken the child over, and made him or her into a person that the family barely recognizes. It can be troubling, to say the least.

You may have been struggling with your child for a long time, wondering if you should seek counseling, discussing the possibility with your loved ones. Alternatively, perhaps there has been a very sudden and traumatic incident in your lives and you wonder how you can pick up the pieces and return to normalcy. Or maybe your child is simply having trouble concentrating in school, and you feel that discussing some of these issues with a trained counselor or psychologist would be helpful for your child to function at the best of their ability.

Why Consider Counseling for Your Child?

There are many reasons that parents seek counseling or therapy for their child, and the professionals at Thriveworks Cambridge Child Therapy are prepared to help with any of these causes. Most parents take their children for check-ups at the doctor, remind them to wash their hands and brush their teeth, but how many parents seriously consider their child’s mental health?

It is easy to neglect this area of your child’s well being, but you can make a change today.

Perhaps your child’s teacher or a guidance counselor at school is suggesting that counseling is needed for your child. We understand that it is never easy to hear that your child is anything but perfect, but you can find a trusted partner in your child’s mental health with Thriveworks Cambridge Child Therapy.

We also understand that each child’s needs are different. Even if two children are having similar issues, varying ages (for example) can dramatically affect the course of therapy. Know that our therapists have the necessary skills and experience to be able to positively interact with your child, no matter his or her challenges, age or temperament.

The reasons that parents pursue counseling for their child vary:

  • Autism concerns or diagnosis
  • ADHD/ADD concerns or diagnosis
  • Disruptive behavior in school
  • Abuse or neglect
  • Violent or criminal behavior
  • Life change, such as parent’s divorce
  • Trouble with bullying
  • Addictions to drugs or alcohol
  • Eating disorders
  • Loss of a loved one
  • Difficulties with friends
  • Emotional or psychological problems
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Bipolar disorder

This is by no means a comprehensive list, so you may not have seen the reason that you are considering therapy for your child.

Just like with adults, children are affected by an array of mental and emotional struggles, but getting to the heart of those issues can be often more challenging with a child because of communication barriers. A sullen teenager, for example, may not initially want to be in the room with a counselor at all, so it’s imperative that you find a therapist who has experience overcoming the unique challenges present to counseling children an adolescents, someone who knows how to foster an open and honest environment where effective communication and growth are possible.

As parents, we understand that children go through many stages as they grow and mature. Sometimes this very act of growing creates issues that are difficult to deal with at home. A skilled counselor can help parents and children navigate the waters of change and maturity with hopefully less yelling, slamming of doors and screaming matches.

There is no need to struggle alone with your child’s problems by yourself. Professional care is available as soon as today.

Child Therapy Methods

Working with children has unique challenges and differences from working with adults. Not all therapists or counselors are educated and prepared on how to best work with children. Even with children that are nonverbal, who cannot simply explain what they’re going through, we can help them share how they are feeling and what may be bothering them.

Methods of child therapy may include:

  • Traditional talk therapy
  • Behavior modification techniques
  • Play therapy
  • Family therapy
  • Teaching relaxation methods
  • Cognitive and behavioral therapy
  • Art therapy
  • Narrative therapy
  • Teaching coping methods
  • Identifying and treating underlying medical issues
  • Identifying and treating underlying psychological issues

Thriveworks counselors will be able to create a specialized blend of these methods to be able to best help your child. It may take some trial and error to determine what your child is most comfortable with in the counseling office, but we are committed to finding the best way for him or her to communicate.

It is not always easy to help children communicate their deepest and most private thoughts and feelings, but it is always worth the effort. Thriveworks counselors and therapists will help your child learn to communicate more clearly, and create opportunities for positive change.

Why Choose Thriveworks for Your Child?

When you were choosing your child’s pediatrician, you probably did some research, talked with people you trusted, and maybe even interviewed different choices. With child therapy, there is not always the same level of openness and discussion.

Many parents may be apprehensive to share their experiences, or want to keep the topic private. For this reason, it can be difficult to find a child therapist that you trust. When you conducted the search that brought you to this page, you were most likely inundated with choices.

You may feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and confused. We understand, and want you to make a well-informed decision.”

Thriveworks Cambridge counselors, psychologists, and therapists are leaders in their field. We only hire the best. Our counselors have been featured in many academic journals and reputable news outlets such as CNN, The Journal of Mental Health Counseling, Counseling Today and The Boston Globe.

Our counselors are ready to help with whatever your child is dealing with, whether at home or at school. Whether they are simply having trouble navigating the social scene at school or if you fear that they may be suffering from a serious psychological disorder, we are here to help.

At Thriveworks, we pride ourselves on not operating with a waiting list. We understand that it may be very difficult for you to make that first call for your child. It may be a decision you have been struggling with for quite some time. We have appointments available in the next 24 hours for most new clients.

We are just a phone call or a message away. We are ready and able to help you and your child process and cope, and function and thrive in home and school.

It would be our honor to walk with you on this journey of healing.

Contact Thriveworks Cambridge Child Therapy to help your child through life’s challenges. Let’s get started today!

 


Cambridge Locations

Thriveworks Boston Counseling and Psychotherapy
872 Massachusetts Ave, Ste 2-2
Cambridge, MA 02139
617-395-5806

You can also request an appointment online:

Request a Session

Thriveworks Counseling
929 Massachusetts Ave., Suite 103
Cambridge, MA 02139
617-553-4653

You can also request an appointment online:

Request a Session

Pricing & insurance

Our therapists accept most major insurances. We accept 585+ insurance plans, and offer self-pay options, too.
Learn more about pricing for therapy and counseling services at Thriveworks.

Our Cambridge therapists and counselors accept 26 insurance plans

  • Aetna

  • Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card)

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO)

  • Carelon

  • Cigna | Evernorth

  • Cigna | Evernorth EAP

  • Cigna | Evernorth Medicare Advantage

  • Compsych

  • Fallon Health

  • First Health Network

  • Humana Exchange

Show more
Self-pay costs at Cambridge
Talk therapy

Talk therapy

Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Talk therapy

Psychiatry

Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Hear from our clients

4.5 Learn about verified reviews
★★★★★
All the people of thrive works have been great my doctor is awesome Dr. Lal
Anthony Dec 2023
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
I am so pleased with my decision to see Rebecca at ThriveWorks in Cambridge. She is compassionate and understanding, but also pushes me to feel confident I can make changes in my life that are needed most. I feel so supported. Feeling grateful that I took a leap to try Rebecca!
Read more I am so pleased with my decision to see Rebecca at ThriveWorks in Cambridge. She is compassionate and understanding, but also pushes me to feel confident I can make changes in my life that are needed most. I feel so supported. Feeling grateful that I took a leap to try Rebecca!
Cambridge May 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Rebecca Rodriquez is a true professional. I have found her to be trustworthy and truly helpful. She demonstrates kindness, compassion and strong clinical knowledge in her therapeutic approach. I highly recommend her to all. She has been extremely helpful to me.
Read more Rebecca Rodriquez is a true professional. I have found her to be trustworthy and truly helpful. She demonstrates kindness, compassion and strong clinical knowledge in her therapeutic approach. I highly recommend her to all. She has been extremely helpful to me.
Cambridge Apr 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I have had the opportunity to work with Rebecca Rodrigues for a long time. She is a thoughtful professional, mindful clinician and highly respectful to her clients.
Read more I have had the opportunity to work with Rebecca Rodrigues for a long time. She is a thoughtful professional, mindful clinician and highly respectful to her clients.
Cambridge Apr 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Arielle has been an incredible help in my life and I can’t thank her enough for it!
Cambridge Jun 2021
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I've had the pleasure of working with Alicia at her previous job. She is an incredible clinician who's knowledge, leadership, and compassionate made her an excellent supervisor and therapist.
Read more I've had the pleasure of working with Alicia at her previous job. She is an incredible clinician who's knowledge, leadership, and compassionate made her an excellent supervisor and therapist.
Cambridge Jan 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I had been unable to make an appointment with a therapist for a long time. Everyone had a three month waiting list. I took a chance and made an appointment here. I love Hannah, she’s excellent, and I’m glad I found Thriveworks. It’s too soon for me to weigh in on the additional services Thriveworks offers but it seems good!
Read more I had been unable to make an appointment with a therapist for a long time. Everyone had a three month waiting list. I took a chance and made an appointment here. I love Hannah, she’s excellent, and I’m glad I found Thriveworks. It’s too soon for me to weigh in on the additional services Thriveworks offers but it seems good!
Cambridge Nov 2018
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Hannah Fulkerson has been a great help in creating a dialogue between myself and my wife. Thank you.
Read more Hannah Fulkerson has been a great help in creating a dialogue between myself and my wife. Thank you.
Cambridge Aug 2018
Review left on Thriveworks.com

Where to find us

Getting here

Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Cambridge is located off of Massachusetts Ave, on the north side of the Charles River. Our office is in the Cambridge Tower next to Apollo Travel and Tours, Tanjore, and Cambridge Premier Realty. The closest bus stop is Massachusetts Ave opp Lee St. If you have trouble finding our office or have any questions about how to get here, please don’t hesitate to reach out!

Phone number

(617) 380-4651

Languages spoken by MA providers

  • English
  • Spanish
  • Creole
  • French
  • Japanese
Tuesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Thursday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Friday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Saturday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Monday 8:00am - 9:00pm

Shown in ET

Tuesday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Wednesday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Thursday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Friday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Saturday 7:00am - 6:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 5:00pm
Monday 7:00am - 9:30pm

Shown in ET

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