Child and Adolescent Therapy – Counselors and Coaches in Charlotte
Every parent’s worst nightmare is finding out something is wrong with their child. It can be incredibly frustrating to know something is wrong, and be completely unable to help. Having a child with an emotional or psychological problem is difficult to understand, and also difficult to deal with on your own.
You and your child may have been struggling with this issue for quite some time, unable to find relief or it may be something sudden that has been completely shocking and overwhelming. Whatever situation that you find your family in, Thriveworks Charlotte’s child therapists are ready and able to step in and help.
People of every age have natural growing pains involved with getting older and becoming mature. For some, these normal struggles can become completely debilitating. Perhaps there is poor communication between you and your child and you simply worry about what is going on in their head and in their heart. We understand that you want the best for your son or daughter, and we are able to step in where your efforts have met a brick wall.
You may be so used to the sound of a slamming door in your face from your teenager, this seems like it might just be normal life. But believe us, your home does not have to be like this; your relationship with your child does not have to be like this as well.
Thriveworks child therapists are leaders in their field. They are ready and able to help with any problem that you may present in the counseling office. You may be embarrassed for your family or for your child, and feel uneasy about discussing the issues you are facing with a stranger. While we understand, we want you to know that we are professionals and will not be shocked by whatever you bring to our office.
Why Choose Counseling for Your Child?
It is never easy to come to the realization that your child needs professional help. There are many reasons why parents choose to take their child to therapy or counseling. Your child may be having trouble at school, perhaps with other kids, or with finishing their work in a timely manner. Or perhaps your child cannot sleep and is consumed with worries and fears. Maybe your teenager is sneaking around, and you are worried that he or she is not telling you the truth.
Every child is different, just like every family is different. We understand that discussing emotional issues with a 3-year-old is completely different than with a 17-year-old. The needs and abilities of each person that comes into our offices vary greatly. We are ready and able to meet you and your child where you are; and can help break down barriers to communication.
There are many reasons to pursue child therapy. These may include:
- Autism concerns or diagnosis
- ADHD/ADD concerns or diagnosis
- Disruptive behavior in school
- Abuse or neglect
- Violent or criminal behavior
- Life change, such as divorce
- Trouble with bullying
- Addictions to drugs or alcohol
- Eating disorders
- Loss of a loved one
- Difficulties with friends
- Emotional or psychological problems
- Anxiety
After reading this list, you may know exactly what your child is facing and have a good idea of what you need help with at home. You as the parent, however, might also have a feeling that things are just not right. Your teenager may be suddenly acting differently, or you just know that your child is not at ease. Having this understanding is the first step in creating change and growth for your child.
It is normal and healthy to go through many changes during childhood. All children mature and change at different rates, and oftentimes experience communication problems as well within their family. Teenagers often have the feeling that no one understands them. Puberty can also cause teens to wonder if they are “normal.”
Many of these fears and challenges are normal parts of childhood and parenting. But sometimes, they become overwhelming. Do not ignore your parental instinct. If you feel like your child needs help, there is no other explanation that is needed.
We all can look back at childhood and adolescence and think of difficult times. Are there times that you wish someone would have been available to talk? If you look back on childhood and do not feel that way, you most likely had a trusted confidant. Giving the gift of healthy communication to your child is a huge source of strength for him or her. If your child is facing a serious trauma or difficulty at school or home, we are available to help. There is no need for you or your child to struggle in silence.
Child/Adolescent Therapy Techniques
Dealing with kids and teenagers in counseling is completely different than dealing with adults. A trained and experienced therapist knows that, and has solutions to overcoming any communication difficulties that age can present.
There are many unique and important ways that a child/adolescent therapist can help deal with the problems of this age group. Every parent knows that talking with a toddler is very different than talking with a teenager. A trained counselor or therapist will use several techniques to find what works best for your child.
These methods of child therapy may include:
- Traditional talk therapy
- Behavior modification techniques
- Play therapy
- Family therapy
- Teaching relaxation methods
- Cognitive and behavioral therapy
- Art therapy
- Narrative therapy
- Teaching coping methods
- Identifying and treating underlying medical issues
- Identifying and treating underlying psychological issues
Change may not happen in the first, the second or even the third session. We do not claim to have a magic potion to make all of your child’s problems disappear (and do not trust anyone who claims that they do). We are here to walk with you, your family and your child on a journey of healing and growth.
Every child is special and unique. We recognize that, and will create a unique and specialized treatment plan for each person that walks through our doors. Thriveworks child therapists are trained professionals, ready to help.
How Do I Know Thriveworks Charlotte is Right for My Son or Daughter?
You may feel exhausted, overwhelmed and discouraged in the search for help for your child. Your teenager may be reluctant to accept help, or even to attend counseling.
In some parts of the country or in some families and cultures, there is a stigma against counseling and therapy. Do not let this stand in the way of getting help for your child. We are here to help you create the type of relationship with your child that you used to have, or have always dreamed of having with him or her. We can help your child walk throughout whatever they are facing, and find strength in doing so.
You were probably inundated with choices when you conducted the search that brought you to this page. There are many choices for help for your child; it can be very overwhelming. Thriveworks is a name you can trust. Our child therapists are leaders in their field. Our counselors have been featured in many academic journals and reputable news outlets such as CNN, The Journal of Mental Health Counseling, Counseling Today and The Boston Globe. They have experience dealing with the same issues you have kept hidden for so long or that you cannot imagine facing. They are ready to help with whatever your child is dealing with, whether big or small.
At Thriveworks, we pride ourselves on not operating with a waiting list. We understand that it may have been very difficult to convince your child to come to therapy. When you and your child are ready, we are ready. We have appointments available in the next 24 hours for most new clients. We are just a phone call or a message away. We are ready and able to help you and your child process and cope, and function and thrive in home and school.
It would be our honor to walk with you and your son or daughter on this journey of healing.
