Child Therapy
Are your child's outbursts and meltdowns becoming overwhelming? Is it hard for them to form friendships? Or are rigid patterns keeping them stuck? Are you feeling at a loss to help your child through these difficult moments? Investing in your child’s mental health is not merely an act of kindness. It is a profound commitment to their future stability and well-being.
Research indicates that children are more likely to develop anxiety and depression as adults if they do not learn to regulate their emotions during childhood (Child Development Journal, 2017). Additionally, negative interactions with peers and poor social skills significantly increase the risk of mental health issues in young people (JAMA Psychiatry, 2018). It is crucial to recognize that a child’s emotional and psychological framework is shaped during these formative years.
Early interventions can facilitate resilience, enabling children to navigate the complexities of life with greater ease and confidence.
What is Child Therapy?
Nurtures both self-awareness and emotional intelligence, equipping children to handle challenges that lie ahead.
Provides a supportive environment that encourages non-judgmental dialogue about emotions, which enhances a child’s ability to communicate effectively.
Therapy for children is usually strongly benefitted by the engaged presence of their parent/caregiver.
What to Expect
Typically the first session includes all parental figures to assist in building a complete assessment picture.
Treatment plan will be created, complete with on-going follow up and parental support sessions. Weekly to bi-weekly sessions are recommended in this early phase to ensure momentum is built.
Counselling for this age group may include therapeutic play, games, and activities.
Parents can anticipate being heavily involved in the counselling process to ensure skills taught during counselling session are understood and reinforced at home.
Information is shared freely with caregivers.
In this age group, parents or legal guardians sign consent to treat and confidentiality forms. Instances of separation or divorce, require both parents to sign consent forms. A copy of custody agreement is required to determine if one parent has sole decision-making rights.
Sessions are typically 50 minutes in length (this allows for 10 minutes at the end of the hour for therapists to write their notes and plan for your next session).
Children Ages 11 and Under
Increased resilience through access to positive supports and emotional outlets.
Accumulate coping strategies that enhance well-being for life.
Equipping parents with skills and strategies to support their child.
Improved attachment and understanding between child and their parent(s).
Goals of Therapy
Common Issues Addressed in Child Therapy
Rigidity
Social Anxiety
Poor Self-Regulation
Bullying
Low mood
Self-harm or suicidal ideation
Low frustration tolerance
Physical aggression
Isolating or avoidant tendencies
Family conflict
ADHD, difficulty in focusing or organization
Perfectionism
OCD
Tantrums/Meltdowns
Poor Eating
Sleep Issues
Hitting/Biting
Poor social skills
Separation Anxiety
Shyness