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

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

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Christina Comeau

Hear from Christina Comeau, Counselor (Resident)

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What is your go-to approach for child therapy?

It is important to meet children where they are. Child therapy is different in that children are often not seeking out therapy for themselves, so it is important to make sure they feel comfortable and have a positive experience. That way, when they have developed more and have the desire to continue to work on their mental health, they will feel safe enough to do so on their own in the future. To do this, I use a lot of play and creative art therapy combined with psychoeducation. I also think it is important to involve parents in therapy so that I am able to address everyone's concerns and also address underlying issues that may be contributing to behavioral problems.

What tools do you teach in child therapy?

I teach a lot of emotional identification skills as well as ways in which children can express those emotions in a healthy way. I teach coping skills to help children manage “big emotions” as well as learning how to identify when they are feeling dysregulated and when to implement the coping skills they have learned about. One popular technique I use is emotional thermometers to help children identify the intensity of the emotion they are feeling and match that with coping skills that best fit with that level of intensity.

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 are sharing more without as much prompting. Since most children are in therapy because an adult in their lives thinks they need it, they often either don't want to be there or don't know what to talk about. Once they start talking more openly on their own, that is progress in itself. I also see progress when children use more emotion-based language correctly, or when their parents report improvements at home.

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

Clients can supplement their time in child therapy with daily mindfulness practice (which can be found on YouTube), or increased structure and routine at home (if that is necessary). Sometimes I will ask children to practice a certain skill in between sessions as well.

What should someone do to prepare for starting child therapy?

To prepare for their first child therapy session, it is important for the child to have an understanding of what therapy is and the purpose for it. It can be helpful for the parent and therapist to have a conversation first in order to prepare everyone for the first meeting. There should be goals for therapy, so if the child does not have their own goals, it is important they understand what goals the parent has for the child's therapy.

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 Worcester.

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 Worcester, 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 Worcester, 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?

Child Therapy in Worcester, MA—Therapists and Counselors for Kids

Being a child means playing outside, making forts, and riding bikes around the neighborhood until you can hear your mom yell that it’s dinner time. As they age into adolescence, kids start to ask to venture out to see movies with their friends or go to amusement parks from open to close. Once they turn into teenagers or young adults, they start to drive, go to sporting events, take day trips, and dip their toes into the dating world. Whatever stage of childhood your kid is in, life isn’t always as picture-perfect as we described. The world will throw obstacles and challenges at children as they grow up. Although this is normal, it’s crucial to know when these challenges start to take a negative toll on their mental development and seek professional help when times get tough.

Whether your child is dealing with divorce, bullying, or coping with a learning disability, a licensed psychologist can help. At Thriveworks Counseling in Worcester, our child counselors are experienced and highly qualified to diagnose and treat the issues that children of all ages may be facing. If you feel like your child could benefit from speaking with a professional, call (508) 409-6134 to schedule an appointment.

Is My Child the Right Fit for Child Therapy?

All parents can relate to some sort of shift in their children when something is off. Maybe it’s puberty and a change or hormones. Maybe they are getting picked on at school for how they dress. Maybe they are arguing with a close friend and haven’t told you about it. Whatever the situation is, a licensed child therapist can help them work through concerns such as:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Bullying
  • Divorce
  • Eating disorders
  • Hormonal changes
  • Low self-esteem
  • Loneliness
  • Learning disabilities
  • ADHD
  • Grief
  • Major life changes
  • Trouble making friends

These are just some of the areas in which a Thriveworks in Worcester child therapist could help. In addition to the above list, we can help diagnose underlying medical or psychological conditions. If you aren’t sure of what’s really going on with your child, a psychologist can help identify the real issue at hand and help you and your family work through it together.

How Does Child Therapy Work?

Much the same as regular adult therapy, child therapy focuses on creating a specific plan of care based on individual needs. During the first initial sessions, your child’s therapist will perform assessments to better understand what is going on. At Thriveworks in Worcester, MA, our psychologists have the ability to speak on a level in which your child understands best. To do so, they may use a variety of different methods including:

  • Traditional talk therapy: During traditional talk therapy, the counselor will speak to the child about their concerns. This method works great for kids of all ages.
  • Art therapy: This method utilizes the art-making process to achieve therapeutic goals. Art therapy allows the child to express their emotions without having to use words and also gives them a way to visually, or symbolically, show how they feel.
  • Play therapy: Play therapy helps children and families express their emotions and solve problems through toys, items, and more. Puppets, music, dance, sand, and more can all be used.
  • Family therapy: By having the family unit join in on a child’s therapy session, they can work together to change their behavior in turn helping the child change theirs in the future. It also gives the entire family the ability to speak on the issues at hand and better understand what the child in need is going through.

Schedule an Appointment with a Child Therapist at Thriveworks Counseling in Worcester, MA

When you are ready to seek help for your child, our counselors are here to help. We pride ourselves on our compassionate and accessible care. To schedule an appointment, go to our online booking portal or call (508) 409-6134 to be connected with a scheduling specialist. If you need anything, we’re here. We offer evening and weekend sessions, accept most major insurances, provide in-person and online options, and offer additional benefits.

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 Worcester therapists and counselors accept 29 insurance plans

  • Aetna

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

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card)

  • Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS

  • Carelon

  • Cigna | Evernorth

  • Cigna | Evernorth EAP

  • Cigna | Evernorth Medicare Advantage

  • Compsych

  • Fallon Health

  • First Health Network

  • Harvard Pilgrim

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Self-pay costs at Worcester
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 Learn about verified reviews
★★★★★
I have been very happy with the counseling I have received. Jason is a down to earth person. I like him on a personal and professional level. He is a good listener and understands my challenges. He has offered techniques to help me identify my anxieties before they have a chance to affect my behavior. He has introduced me to Cognitive Behavioral therapy as one of the tools I may find useful to effect change. I have made improvements in my behavior as a result of Jason's counseling.
Read more I have been very happy with the counseling I have received. Jason is a down to earth person. I like him on a personal and professional level. He is a good listener and understands my challenges. He has offered techniques to help me identify my anxieties before they have a chance to affect my behavior. He has introduced me to Cognitive Behavioral therapy as one of the tools I may find useful to effect change. I have made improvements in my behavior as a result of Jason's counseling.
Jim Jan 2024
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
Everyone has been great
Gary Jan 2024
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
Best therapist i have ever worked with!
Jerry Dec 2023
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
I have the privilege of working with Jamie (Coonan) Bruce for the past 4 months+ and have gained a sense of peace and equilibrium by doing so. Jamie has guided me to create a thriving daily practice of serenity and peace even in my own fragmented chaotic times along with the insane chaotic times in the world presently. I feel my relationship with her has led me to an understanding of my past trauma that is beneficial in my growth and connection with family and others. As we resolve past issues, it is gently ushering in a new skill set. I am better able to manage the fluctuating moods and emotions enhancing my coping skills. Jamie's experience with PTSD for so many years is a blessing for me as I live with hypervigilance day in and day out. I have been able to better manage my anxiety and I am learning how to manage my pent up anger making fluid, acceptable and letting it go. I feel blessed that I found Jamie to work with and am grateful for her teaching, listening and presence.
Read more I have the privilege of working with Jamie (Coonan) Bruce for the past 4 months+ and have gained a sense of peace and equilibrium by doing so. Jamie has guided me to create a thriving daily practice of serenity and peace even in my own fragmented chaotic times along with the insane chaotic times in the world presently. I feel my relationship with her has led me to an understanding of my past trauma that is beneficial in my growth and connection with family and others. As we resolve past issues, it is gently ushering in a new skill set. I am better able to manage the fluctuating moods and emotions enhancing my coping skills. Jamie's experience with PTSD for so many years is a blessing for me as I live with hypervigilance day in and day out. I have been able to better manage my anxiety and I am learning how to manage my pent up anger making fluid, acceptable and letting it go. I feel blessed that I found Jamie to work with and am grateful for her teaching, listening and presence.
Worcester Aug 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I have been seeing Jeffrey White for four months now, to deal with longstanding issues related to a traumatic childhood. He has taught me so much about how trauma affects the body and mind and how to change that. That education, along with his compassion and encouragement have helped me get to a place of calm and confidence that would have seemed impossible to me before starting therapy. I'm so grateful for his help - it's been transformational for me.
Read more I have been seeing Jeffrey White for four months now, to deal with longstanding issues related to a traumatic childhood. He has taught me so much about how trauma affects the body and mind and how to change that. That education, along with his compassion and encouragement have helped me get to a place of calm and confidence that would have seemed impossible to me before starting therapy. I'm so grateful for his help - it's been transformational for me.
Worcester Sep 2021
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I have been a client of Jeffrey White from Thriveworks for a few months now. We meet weekly and after each session I feel educated and heard. His ability to hold space for me is recognized and appreciated ten fold. Our sessions involve a combination of therapy and coaching, and I couldn't ask for someone better to just listen to me and provide objective feedback. If you are looking for an educated, thoughtful, and inspirational therapist, Jeff White is your person.
Read more I have been a client of Jeffrey White from Thriveworks for a few months now. We meet weekly and after each session I feel educated and heard. His ability to hold space for me is recognized and appreciated ten fold. Our sessions involve a combination of therapy and coaching, and I couldn't ask for someone better to just listen to me and provide objective feedback. If you are looking for an educated, thoughtful, and inspirational therapist, Jeff White is your person.
Worcester Jun 2021
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Me and my husband are having counseling therapy with Jeffrey White, he not only is a compassionate person but the only professional that has been able to clearly identify the root of our issues and work with us in ways that makes us feel absolutely confident that we are becoming stronger as individuals and also a better couple. We are incredibly grateful to have him as a therapist and every time we finish a session with him, we can't wait to till the next one!
Read more Me and my husband are having counseling therapy with Jeffrey White, he not only is a compassionate person but the only professional that has been able to clearly identify the root of our issues and work with us in ways that makes us feel absolutely confident that we are becoming stronger as individuals and also a better couple. We are incredibly grateful to have him as a therapist and every time we finish a session with him, we can't wait to till the next one!
Worcester Jun 2021
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Everyone I have met has been Compassionate professional individuals. Especially Nicole! Thank you!
Read more Everyone I have met has been Compassionate professional individuals. Especially Nicole! Thank you!
Worcester Mar 2021
Review left on Thriveworks.com

Where to find us

Getting here

Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Worcester is located off of Grove St. We share a building with Premier Home Healthcare Services. There is also a Sunoco located nearby.

Phone number

(508) 576-5598

Languages spoken by MA providers

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

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

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