Mason was diagnosed with dyslexia when he was seven years old. He went through years of tutoring, repeated a grade, and struggled with bullying. Now as a high school student, Mason is having a hard time leaving his classes to study with a special education teacher. He feels like he’s stupid and jokes with his friends about how he doesn’t know how to read or write. Although he is very smart and hands-on with projects, he puts himself down so it hurts less when other kids do it. Mason’s mom is worried that he won’t try new things in life because of feeling stupid. She also does not want him to be picked on at school because she knows he feels like the things people say are true. She has decided that he might benefit from speaking with a child therapist.
How does a parent know when it is time to find a therapist for their child? Is there something your child is doing that is abnormal for their age? Are you worried that your child is hiding their emotions after a major life event, like losing a loved one?
Parents and caregivers don’t always know why their children are behaving a certain way. Like in Mason’s situation, it took a while for his mom to realize that he was being picked on at school for his learning disability because he wouldn’t talk about it. While you don’t want to make a big deal out of something that you don’t need to worry about, you also don’t want to wait and let something fester to the point that it leaves long-lasting, negative effects on your child’s mental wellbeing. It is better to get a second opinion and help from a licensed child therapist when you’re unsure than to leave it alone.
If your child is experiencing emotional distress, is acting differently than normal without explanation, is witnessing a divorce, or any other big life event, consider setting them up with a licensed psychologist. The child therapists at Thriveworks Counseling in New Haven, CT have extensive experience and education in a multitude of areas surrounding children’s wants, needs, and goals.
What Type of Concerns Can You Help My Child With?
We understand that every child has unique experiences and concerns. We want to help them, and you, work through these stressors. Here is just a small list of issues that we can provide guidance and support for:
- Grief
- Anxiety, depression, or other mental illnesses
- Lying
- Aggression
- ADHD
- Learning disabilities
- Bullying
- School concerns
- Behavior problems
- Autism concerns
- Divorce
- Change in eating habits
- Cries often
- Avoids social events
Don’t see something on the list that explains what your child is going through? No worries. These are just a few of the ways we can help your child or teen. Our goal is to provide them with the tools they need to tackle these issues and face future challenges head-on and confidently.
How Does Counseling Work for Children and Teens?
Child therapy is similar to regular therapy for adults. During the beginning sessions, your teen or child will discuss their feelings, emotions, concerns, and goals. Sometimes it can be hard for kids to open up. For example:
When Mason’s mom decided to schedule him a child therapy appointment, Mason got very upset and angry. He told his mom that nothing is wrong with him and he doesn’t need to talk to someone about his feelings. However, she put her foot down and took him to his first appointment and let him know that if he truly didn’t like it, he didn’t have to go back. After his first session, Mason realized that speaking with a professional isn’t what he thought it would be and actually looks forward to his reoccurring sessions.
If your child is like Mason at first, don’t worry. There are so many different methods and techniques for child therapy. When your kid’s therapist sees that one method isn’t working, they move on to the next. Some of the methods they may try are:
- Play therapy
- Narrative therapy
- Anger management tips
- Art therapy
- Traditional talk therapy
- Coping mechanisms
This list could go on. A licensed child therapist at Thriveworks Counseling in New Haven, CT will try whatever they need to break through their barriers. Sometimes the best course of treatment is working with the child, parents, or entire family. This helps the whole family unit understand what is going on and how to better communicate with each other. We offer flexible options and can arrange whatever you and your child feel is best.
Ready to Get Started? Schedule Child Therapy at Thriveworks Counseling in New Haven, CT
If you feel like your child could greatly benefit from our help, schedule an appointment with us. You can do so by visiting our online booking portal or by calling (203) 586-4264. We have online and in-person sessions available as well as a wide range of scheduling times. We understand how hectic life can be, so we are available at convenient times for you.
You do not have to go through this alone. Let’s face these challenges together so we can help you thrive.
Anger, Coping Skills, Self Esteem, Stress, Career, +4 more 
