Do you worry about your child’s ability to adapt to a changing environment? Maybe your son or daughter struggles to relate to other children or has trouble learning new tasks. There are many reasons to seek counseling, from early trauma to learning disabilities, many families can benefit from the help and guidance of a child psychologist.
“Love and trust, in the space between what’s said and what’s heard in our life, can make all the difference in the world.” ― Fred Rogers
Helping our children learn and grow can be one of the most rewarding experiences for a parent but it doesn’t come without challenges. Just like adults, children face many emotional, cognitive, and developmental obstacles on a daily basis. For children and adolescents these obstacles can become overwhelming, especially when paired with potential trauma, disabilities, or major life changes.
How can parents participate in their child’s therapy?
Even the most attentive and caring parent can benefit from the understanding and guidance of a trained professional. Making the decision to bring your child to a therapist or counselor could be a turning point for your family.
Some ways that you can help your child and participate in their counseling include:
- Help your child make it to their appointments, a steady and consistent schedule is particularly important to help children achieve and maintain goals.
- Meet with your child’s counselor or therapist to discuss their treatment and how you can participate.
- Have patience. Change takes time and unmet expectations can often lead to hopelessness and feeling of despair.
Your child will experience growth on their own time and the best thing we can do to help is to be understanding and supportive.
Give us a call at (413) 334-8282 or book an appointment online to begin speaking to a counselor as soon as this week.
Does My Child Need a Therapist?
Being a parent or caregiver of a child means always being concerned with their behavior and development. Children go through many stages and changes as they learn, and experience new things. Oftentimes these changes are signs of healthy growth and adjustment. Sometimes children need a little extra help from a profession to adapt to life’s struggles.
Some of the reasons that clients have seen a child counselor in West Springfield are listed below.
- Attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADD and ADHD)
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Bullying and low self-esteem
- Divorce and family transitions
- Eating disorders including overeating, anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, etc.
- Learning disorders
- Loss and grief
- Mood disorders such as anxiety or depression including stress, sadness, and panic attacks
- Neglect and abuse
- Obsessive-compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Struggles adjusting to new situations or routines
- Temper and anger aggravated behavioral concerns
- Trauma and PTSD
- Trouble concentrating or behaving appropriately at school or home
Of course, every family’s circumstances and concerns are unique and not all of the reasons for seeing a therapist are listed above. The best way to get started is by reaching out to one of our counselors. We are here to listen and help.
If you think your child could benefit from the help of a therapist or counselor, please reach out to our experienced therapist in West Springfield. We are available to set up an intake session and further discuss if therapy may be a good choice for your child.
What Are the Unique Challenges of Remote Therapy for Children?
Remote therapy presents a unique problem for children who may have a more difficult time sitting still and focusing on a conversation with someone behind a screen than do their older relatives and friends. It may even become harder for children who’s daily learning is done via video sessions if they are restless.
Our counselors in West Springfield have many techniques to help children feel comfortable so they can focus on their concerns and difficulties.
Some of these techniques include…
- Play Therapy
- Talk Therapy
- Family Therapy
- Art Therapy
- Pet Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Still, some children respond better to in person settings. That is why our brick-and-mortar offices are set up to include family friendly waiting rooms and therapy offices equipped with child size furniture, toys, music equipment and art supplies to accommodate children of all ages.
Whether you chose remote counseling, in person therapy, or a combination of the two, the decision will be made between you and your child counselor so that you can supply your child with the best care for their mental and physical health.
How Can I Make an Appointment for My Child to Meet with a Counselor in West Springfield?
Our child therapists in West Springfield are committed to helping you child receive the highest quality, personalized care in a comfortable and accommodating environment. Counselors are available for both in-person and telehealth sessions.
Booking an appointment for your son, daughter, or loved one is an easy process. You can either view our counselors and book an appointment online, or call (413) 334-8282 and our schedulers will be happy to help you find a counselor who works for you and your family.
The process of finding a child therapist or counselor can be tedious and sometimes unnecessarily difficult. At Thriveworks in West Springfield we try hard to accommodate you and your needs. We want you to begin your journey toward healthy and happy improvement for your family and we hope that we can help you achieve it!
