Image of a therapist and client in a counseling session.

2,474 people sought child therapy help in Michigan in the last year

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

No current openings

All MI providers are fully booked, but check back tomorrow — sessions become available daily!
Pamela Lavis

Hear from Pamela Lavis, Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)

View Pamela Lavis's profile

What is your go-to approach for child therapy?

My go-to approach for helping kids in child therapy is a cognitive behavioral approach. I find the best benefit in this approach because it helps children identify and change harmful thought patterns and behavior.

What tools do you teach in child therapy?

I teach the following tools in child therapy: play therapy as a means to identify thought patterns and behavior, improved communication skills, emotional regulation, and enhanced problem-solving skills.

How do you know when a client is making meaningful progress in child therapy?

I know a client is making meaningful progress in child therapy when they experience improved satisfaction, contentment, stable behavior, and improved relationships.

What can clients do in their personal time to supplement child therapy?

Clients can supplement their time in child therapy by utilizing the learning and coping skills reviewed in sessions.

What should someone do to prepare for starting child therapy?

To prepare for their first child therapy session, a child and family can determine their desired outcome.

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 Troy.

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 Troy, MI 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 Troy, MI 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 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.

Need more help deciding?

Child Therapy in Troy, MI—Oakland Therapists and Counselors for Kids

When we think of the ideal childhood, we imagine all sunshine and rainbows, laughter, and love. As much as we would like that to be true for our children, there are just some things in the world we cannot protect them from. Whether your child is witnessing your divorce, coping with a learning disability, or having trouble making friends, a licensed child therapist can help them overcome their negative feelings and head back to a happier state of mind. At Thriveworks Troy Counseling, our child therapists have the knowledge and experience to help your child, at whatever age, break down walls and cope with the problems they are facing. To schedule an appointment, call (248) 764-4182.

Does My Child Need Therapy?

Sometimes it can be hard to recognize when our children are off. Other times, it is clear as day. Whatever the situation may be, it’s important to remember that your child going through a difficult is never the result of bad parenting. Just by reading into the benefits of child therapy proves how much you love your child and that you would do anything to help them feel better.

Many kids and teenagers can benefit from working with a therapist. Here’s a list to help you better understand how kids might benefit from talking to a counselor:

  • A child who just lost a loved one and doesn’t know how to process their emotions and grieve properly
  • A kid who is afraid to go to school and the parents don’t know why
  • A teen who is showing signs of an eating disorder
  • A child who is getting bullied at their new school and is afraid to ask for help
  • A kid who is watching their parents go through a divorce
  • A teen who has a negative self-image because they have a learning disability such as dyslexia
  • A child who witnessed a traumatic event and is having nightmares
  • A teen that is showing signs of depression, anxiety, or other mental illnesses
  • A kid who won’t get out of bed, even to go do their favorite activities or hang out with friends

What Is Child Therapy All About?

Child therapy is similar to regular adult therapy but catered to the mind of a child. Many people who decide to pursue therapy wish they had done it sooner. We understand that your child might not want to, or feels embarrassed about going, but the relief they feel from talking it out is amazing. Here are a few different approaches to child therapy:

  • Play Therapy: Play therapy is an effective way to reach kids of many different age levels. It utilizes play and art therapy techniques to give kids a way to express their emotions and work through personal issues.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Also known as CBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps identify negative thoughts and the behaviors associated with them by replacing them with positive ones.
  • Relaxation Techniques: Some kids have a hard time relaxing. As adults, we understand what relaxation means and steps we can take to achieve it. However, some kids find it hard to do. By equipping them with relaxation skills, they’ll be able to help themselves deescalate when they are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or angry.

Schedule a Session with a Child Therapist at Thriveworks Troy Counseling

We applaud you for the love and dedication you show to your child. What they are dealing with is not your fault. Sometimes, seeking the help of a counselor is helpful as they are someone not directly a part of your child’s life. It gives them the ability to open up without fear of someone they know judging them.

If you are ready to schedule an appointment with one of our child counselors, you can do so online through our booking portal or by calling (248) 764-4182 to be connected with a scheduling specialist. We have both in-person and online child therapy to help meet the needs of your schedule. We look forward to hearing from you.

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 Troy therapists and counselors accept 29 insurance plans

  • ASR

  • Aetna

  • Blue Care Network of Michigan

  • Blue Care Network of Michigan Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO)

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

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan | BCBS PPO

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card)

  • Carelon

  • Cigna | Evernorth

  • Cigna | Evernorth EAP

  • Cigna | Evernorth Medicare Advantage

  • Compsych

Show more
Self-pay costs at Troy
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

5.0 Thriveworks Troy reviews are collected through Thriveworks.com.
★★★★★
Vickie, is an extraordinary listener. I felt comfortable talking to her since day one. She does not judge me and she makes me feel welcomed. I trust her expertise and the way she coaches me through the most difficult times. I like the way she listens to me and is not so quick to speak. I highly recommend her because she has helped me through my darkest hour.
Read more Vickie, is an extraordinary listener. I felt comfortable talking to her since day one. She does not judge me and she makes me feel welcomed. I trust her expertise and the way she coaches me through the most difficult times. I like the way she listens to me and is not so quick to speak. I highly recommend her because she has helped me through my darkest hour.
Troy Nov 2021
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I have known Andrea my entire life. She has an incredible passion for listening to and helping others. She is empathetic, caring, and has the ability to help others find their way through the most difficult of times or challenges. I highly recommend her!
Read more I have known Andrea my entire life. She has an incredible passion for listening to and helping others. She is empathetic, caring, and has the ability to help others find their way through the most difficult of times or challenges. I highly recommend her!
Troy Nov 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Andrea is an excellent therapist! She is a dedicated and trustworthy professional. Andrea has a strong skillset, and is compassionate about helping her clients navigate through life's challenges.
Read more Andrea is an excellent therapist! She is a dedicated and trustworthy professional. Andrea has a strong skillset, and is compassionate about helping her clients navigate through life's challenges.
Troy Nov 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Andrea is one of the most kind and trustworthy individuals I have ever had the pleasure of knowing and working with. Her genuine, heartfelt attitude towards her work is immense. Andrea has a positive attitude that is contagious. She is absolutely wonderful!
Read more Andrea is one of the most kind and trustworthy individuals I have ever had the pleasure of knowing and working with. Her genuine, heartfelt attitude towards her work is immense. Andrea has a positive attitude that is contagious. She is absolutely wonderful!
Troy Aug 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I've known Andrea for a number of years. Working with children is her passion. She just loves kids and will work diligently to achieve any child and parental goals. A firm believer that early detection/ treatment of childhood problems is the key for the development into a healthy adult. She works closely with parents and family members, as they play a crucial role in the child's successes. Always interested in expanding her knowledge base and keeps informed of new information related to her specialities. An extremely good listener and communicator that takes an active role in working with children and their family. I would highly recommend Andrea to anyone that is seeking an experienced counselor for their child.
Read more I've known Andrea for a number of years. Working with children is her passion. She just loves kids and will work diligently to achieve any child and parental goals. A firm believer that early detection/ treatment of childhood problems is the key for the development into a healthy adult. She works closely with parents and family members, as they play a crucial role in the child's successes. Always interested in expanding her knowledge base and keeps informed of new information related to her specialities. An extremely good listener and communicator that takes an active role in working with children and their family. I would highly recommend Andrea to anyone that is seeking an experienced counselor for their child.
Troy Feb 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Crystal is a compassionate and insightful counselor. It is so much easier to talk with someone who makes me feel comfortable without judgement. She truly listens and helps me see different ways to improve the tough situations I’m dealing with. I am so thankful for the support she’s provided and she has my most heartfelt recommendation.
Read more Crystal is a compassionate and insightful counselor. It is so much easier to talk with someone who makes me feel comfortable without judgement. She truly listens and helps me see different ways to improve the tough situations I’m dealing with. I am so thankful for the support she’s provided and she has my most heartfelt recommendation.
Troy Jan 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com

Where to find us

Getting here

Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Troy is located off of W Big Beaver Rd, near the intersection of Big Beaver and Crooks Rd, just west of Interstate 75. Nearby businesses include O'Neil Family Dentistry, Somerset Pediatrics, and Revival Research Institute. Across the street from us are eTitle Agency Inc. and City Cove Counseling Services LLC. The closest bus stop is at Big Beaver + Crooks.

Phone number

(248) 609-3727

Languages spoken by MI providers

  • English
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
Tuesday 8:00am - 9:00pm

Shown in ET

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
Tuesday 7:00am - 9:30pm

Shown in ET

0 photos