How to Know if my Child or Teenager Should go to Therapy

Thinking about starting therapy can be a big question when considering it as an adult for yourself, and sometimes even more so when thinking about it for your children. It can be frightening to do something new or to trust another individual no less, a stranger. There are many misconceptions we may have when we think about therapy, and those who seek it. To help try and break through some misconceptions, here are a couple of ideas we’d like to clarify: 

  • You do not have to have a mental health diagnosis to see a therapist 

  • You do not have to be experiencing a breakdown to see a therapist 

  • When you work with a private therapy office (like The Growth and Wellness Therapy Centre) you do not need a doctor's note or referral 

  • You can work with a therapist for however long you’d like to 

  • People of all ages can benefit from therapy, including children 

  • And you can choose a therapist you like! If you don’t feel like it’s a good fit, you can try someone else!

Therapy can be beneficial to help with various issues and concerns that children may be facing, such as ADHD, emotional regulation, phobias, family transitions, growth after traumatic experiences, anxiety and more. Within our office, we have many tools and resources to help children as well as adults feel more comfortable. We have toys, board games, puppets, art supplies and even sand trays! 

If you are considering therapy for your child or teenager, here are a few questions you might ask yourself: 


1.What does my child/teenager think of this idea? 

Therapy is much easier and more productive when the child is open to the idea. It may take some encouragement and guidance, but often after our first visit children and teens become more open and even excited to work with their therapist! 


2. Have you noticed any concerning changes in your child’s behaviour, such as:

  • Sleep problems

  • Lack of interest in activities

  • Suicidal thoughts, threats or plans

  • Fatigue or low energy

  • Mood swings

  • Concentration problems

  • Depression

  • Appetite or weight changes

  • Changed level of activity

  • Withdrawal

  • Excessive worry or anxiety 

These can be signs it might be helpful for them to talk to a professional, and these issues can turn into goals for therapy. Shifting behaviours, responses or reactions are common topics for therapists to work on!

3. Has your child or family experienced any recent changes or traumas? 

Coping with changes or disruptions can be hard for anyone, but it can be especially hard for children and teens who might not yet have the capacity to understand or process with words what is going on for them. Our therapists can help them to understand and work through their reactions to trauma or change in ways that will feel safe and understandable to them.

If you are curious about what therapy for your child or teenager may look like, all therapists in our office offer a free 15-minute consultation. This way, you and your child can ask any questions you may still have in order to find something that you click with! If you are interested in learning more or booking a consultation, reach out to us at info@growthwellnesstherapy.com or through our contact us link!

 

About the Author

Madison Mastervick, MSW RSW is a therapist who focuses on working with children, youth and parents on various topics. She is a Registered ECE in addition to being a Registered Social Worker.

 
Madison Mastervick, MSW RSW RECE