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6 therapists available in Charlottesville
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Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
Elizabeth:
Some go-to approaches for child therapy are play therapy or art therapy.
Jamie :
My primary approach in child therapy is eclectic, integrating both non-directive and directive play therapy techniques. I tailor interventions to meet each child’s unique needs, combining structure with flexibility to foster growth and healing. I work collaboratively with children, supporting the development of their autonomy and sense of self. This therapeutic style allows children to safely explore their thoughts and emotions, find their voice, and build a positive and empowering experience within the therapeutic environment.
Elizabeth:
Important tools that can be taught in child therapy are emotional regulation and expression.
Jamie : "I teach the following tools in child-centered (non-directive and directive) play therapy:
Elizabeth:
A client is making meaningful progress in therapy when reports from home and/or school are more positive.
Jamie :
I know a client is making meaningful progress in child therapy when I observe increased emotional expression, improved self-regulation, and greater use of coping strategies both in and outside of sessions. The child may begin to verbalize thoughts and feelings more clearly, show openness to building trusting relationships, and demonstrate healthier ways of managing conflict or stress. I also look for signs of growth through play themes, such as a shift from chaotic or traumatic play to more organized and empowered narratives. Additionally, when caregivers report positive changes at home or school—such as better communication, fewer behavioral challenges, or increased confidence—it often reflects that the therapeutic work is resonating and creating real-world impact.
Elizabeth:
Parents can supplement child therapy by continuing to teach tools at home and engaging in family therapy sessions.
Jamie :
Clients can supplement their time in child therapy with supportive activities and resources that reinforce therapeutic goals and foster emotional growth. These may include family therapy sessions, parent coaching, school-based supports, social skills groups, structured routines at home, and developmentally appropriate activities such as journaling, mindfulness exercises, or therapeutic games. Involvement in creative outlets like art, music, or physical play can also enhance self-expression and regulation outside of the therapy room. When appropriate, collaboration with caregivers, teachers, and other providers ensures a consistent and holistic support system for the child’s well-being.
Elizabeth:
To prepare for their first session, a child can think of what they want to discuss and any concerns or fears they might have.
Jamie :
To prepare for their first child therapy session, a child can be gently introduced to the idea of therapy in a way that feels safe and age-appropriate. Caregivers can explain that therapy is a place where they can play, talk, and get help with feelings or challenges they may be having. Reading child-friendly books about therapy, visiting the therapy office in advance (if possible), or allowing the child to bring a comfort item can also ease anxiety. It’s helpful to reassure the child that the therapist is there to support them, not to judge or get them in trouble. Creating a calm and open environment before the first session helps the child feel more comfortable and supported.
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 Charlottesville.
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 Charlottesville, VA have the expertise and experience to help kids at their level.
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.
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.
Cognitive behavioral therapy at Thriveworks in Charlottesville, VA 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.
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.
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.
At Thriveworks, we accept most major insurance plans, allowing many clients to pay as little as $0–$50 per session with their co-pay. We also offer self-pay options for those out-of-network or without insurance. Self-pay rates for talk therapy range from $160 to $240 for intake sessions and $135 to $195 for follow-ups, depending on your state. For psychiatry services, self-pay intake sessions are $255–$375, with follow-ups ranging from $175–$300, also varying by state. More information on current self-pay costs is available on our pricing page.
arents often find themselves struggling with what they can or should do for their child if they’re experiencing a mental health condition. You may be asking, “What is the appropriate response to what I fear is happening to my child?” or, “Where can I get the right help that my child needs?”
At Thriveworks Counseling Charlottesville, VA we have highly trained, experienced, and passionate counselors and psychologists who have the answers.
It’s never easy to accept that your child is in need of help beyond that which you can provide as a parent; but reaching out for help, seeking counseling for your child, may be that important decision that puts your child on the path to healing and to becoming themselves again. There are many reasons that parents may seek counseling for their children, and our team at Thriveworks Charlottesville, VA is capable of helping with any of these issues.
These are just some of the many problems for which our team is capable of providing help and care.
Your children are precious to you, and as a parent you do your best to ensure that they are healthy, protected, and cared for. We believe your child deserves first class care, and that’s why at Thriveworks Charlottesville, VA we hire only the best counselors, and it’s why we operate with a “no waiting list policy”. Call us today at (434) 812-4009 and we can have an appointment scheduled for you within a week of your first call.
We know you don’t count the cost when it comes to providing care for your children, and counseling for your child may be more affordable than you think. We accept most major insurance plans and have a sliding scale for self pay clients. Reach out to us today for a free phone consultation or to schedule a time to begin helping your child through life’s challenges.
At Thriveworks Counseling Charlottesville, VA we’re ready to start when you are! Call today, (434) 812-4009.
Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy
Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management
Sunday | 8:00am - 9:30pm | |
Monday | 8:00am - 9:30pm | |
Tuesday | 8:00am - 9:30pm | |
Wednesday | 8:00am - 9:30pm | |
Thursday | 8:00am - 9:30pm | |
Friday | 8:00am - 9:30pm | |
Saturday | 8:00am - 9:30pm |
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Sunday | 8:00am - 6:00pm | |
Monday | 8:00am - 9:30pm | |
Tuesday | 8:00am - 9:30pm | |
Wednesday | 8:00am - 9:30pm | |
Thursday | 8:00am - 9:30pm | |
Friday | 8:00am - 9:30pm | |
Saturday | 8:00am - 6:00pm |
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