Child and Teen Therapy—Counselors and Coaches in Durham, NC
Childhood is the time we start to discover ourselves. The time for us to learn what we’re interested in, what we’re good at, and ultimately what makes us happy. Self-expression—whether it be through art, music, a sport, or another outlet—is one way a child or teen can distinguish themselves from his or her peers and begin their path to becoming independent. But again, it takes some time to figure that stuff out. Not to mention, at the same time, kids are made to test boundaries, to make mistakes, and to learn as they go.
In sum, adolescence is a tricky stage of life. Kids often have a whole lot to juggle without enough hands to juggle them—that’s where child or adolescent therapy comes in. This form of counseling is made to help children better understand and manage issues that arise, from stress to mental health conditions and difficulties at home or school. The child counselors and therapists at Thriveworks Counseling in Durham who specialize in working with children understand how these young minds work and are able to break down a problem in a way that makes sense to them. If you think your child could benefit from working with a counselor or therapist—maybe they’re showing signs of a mental illness, they’re struggling to handle school stress, or they’ve recently lost a loved one—reach out to Thriveworks. Our counselors and therapists are eager and able to help.
Who Can Benefit from Child Therapy?
Think about it: it’s often hard for us adults to experience, understand, and work through our feelings. Imagine how tough this must be for children and teens. Fortunately, child therapy is designed to guide them in doing so—whether it’s a 15-year-old boy dealing with the hurt from his parents’ divorce, a young girl who’s lonely at a new school, or a kid who exhibits signs of depression and anxiety. The list is never-ending, but here are common issues kids present in child therapy:
- Moving to a new town
- Attending a new school
- Death of a loved one
- Addiction in the family
- Divorced parents
- Mental illness
- Abuse
- Trauma
- Bullying
In any which case, the main goal of child therapy is to provide kids with the tools they need to manage issues that arise and better deal with stressors. The Durham counselors and therapists will dedicate their efforts to accomplish this mission and ultimately help your child live happier.
Does My Child Need Therapy?
As detailed above, child therapy can help kids and teens in a variety of ways. But there are certain behaviors to watch out for that may signify your child is seriously suffering or could seriously suffer in the near future. With so many ways for your child to express themselves it can be unclear what these harmful behaviors are and which behaviors are simply part of your child’s natural propensity. Durham child counselors know that there is no clear line separating the two. They also know that sometimes the behaviors commonly seen in childhood are exaggerated in a mental illness, making it difficult to navigate the gray area. Because of the confusion and misconceptions out there, we have put together a list of signs to watch for in your child that may indicate a larger problem:
- A prolonged change—something that’s not just a reaction to a specific situation or a phase
- Behavior change that causes your child to withdraw from friends, activities or family
- Aggression or deviance that leads to consequences from school or police authorities
- A fearful response to people or situations that he or she were not fearful of in the past
- Unexplained cuts, scratches, or bruises that re-occur or never truly heal
If you observe one or more of these signs in your child or teen your next step should be to set up an appointment with a Durham child counselor. Their role is to further assess the behaviors your child is exhibiting and help alter those behaviors so they no longer negatively impact his or her life. Durham child counselors will determine how deeply the problem is rooted and the causes behind them. They are trained to be solution-focused and will work with your child and family to find the right strategies that work for him or her.
Schedule an Appointment at Thriveworks Counseling in Durham Today
Child therapy can help kids better maneuver and enjoy life in adolescence. As we delved into earlier, it helps those suffering from the harmful effects of mental illness, divorced parents, a low self-esteem, a tough move, and more.
We want you and your child or teen to get the care that they need. If child therapy is something you want to pursue or learn more about, call Thriveworks Counseling in Durham at (919) 629-3854. Our caring providers are ready and excited to walk alongside your child in dealing with difficult feelings, adopting healthier behaviors, and ultimately living a happier life.
