Children / Adolescents Therapy

Children and teenagers may express emotional turmoil through behavioral means; they may struggle socially, have trouble learning, act aggressively, develop rituals, use alcohol or drugs, or engage in self-harm. They may also develop negative beliefs about themselves and develop depression and anxiety. Such behaviors and feelings often interfere with their sense of well-being as well as their capacity for emotional, social, and intellectual development.

 

For younger children, play therapy allows for them to communicate with the world around them, manage their emotions, and build relationships using a language that they understand. A licensed clinical psychologist works with each child at their developmental level using well-studied and supported strategies that help promote healthy development.

 

For older children and adolescents, a combination of play and talk therapy can be most effective. Through the therapeutic process, teens can learn to cope with behavioral, emotional, and relationship factors in a safe setting where they will be encouraged to explore their thoughts and emotions, identify solutions to their difficulties, try various approaches to problems, and develop self-confidence and self-appreciation.

 

The process of therapy varies depending on the age and needs of the child or adolescent. Typically, the first session is spent gathering information from the client and their parent(s)/guardians about reasons for coming to therapy. Following the initial session, the therapist will generally meet with the client individually for a number of sessions. However, therapy is a collaborative process with parents and involves regularly-scheduled parent meetings or family sessions. When appropriate, the therapist may ask to consult with teachers, pediatricians and other physicians, and school counselors.