Key Takeaways

• Therapy is helpful for children who require support in coping with life changes or handling behavioral and emotional challenges.

• Early intervention can greatly benefit your child's mental health and address your concerns before they become serious issues.

• Parents can support their children's mental health by encouraging open communication, promoting a healthy lifestyle, and seeking professional help if they are concerned about their well-being.

It's normal for children to experience emotional ups and downs. However, you might notice behaviors or interactions that make you question whether your child needs therapy. Therapy can significantly impact your child's life by teaching them effective coping mechanisms and how to communicate their needs.

The sooner you identify and arrange therapy for your child, the more positive their therapeutic outcome will be.

Common Signs That a Child May Need Therapy

Like adults, children experience a wide range of behaviors and emotions. However, certain emotional, behavioral, and physical symptoms may indicate that your child could benefit from therapy.

Emotional Symptoms

If your child is suddenly irritable or agitated, this might indicate that they could benefit from therapy.

If they have become socially isolated, clingy, or unable to tolerate being separated from their parents, therapy might be in order.

Behavioral Changes

Behavioral changes at home and in the classroom often signal that your child may be struggling with their mental health.

Increased aggression, sudden withdrawal from family and friends, a loss of interest in normal activities, and difficulty concentrating at school may mean that it's time to consider therapy.

Self-destructive behaviors or signs of self-harm are two indicators that your child needs urgent help.

Physical Symptoms Related to Stress

Stress can manifest in emotional and physical ways, such as headaches, stomachaches, and nausea.

A sudden change in your child's eating habits or sleep patterns may also indicate that something is wrong.

Life Events That May Indicate a Need for Therapy for a Child

Major life events can disrupt a child's sense of security.

Although such changes can be challenging for adults and children, kids can be especially affected and may continue to face difficulties without professional support.

Divorce or Family Conflict

When parents divorce, children may struggle with feelings of guilt and wonder if they were the reason for the separation.

Depression, anxiety and other mental health struggles may increase a child's risk of academic and behavioral difficulties.

Death of a Loved One

The death of a friend or family member may cause significant emotional distress and behavioral changes.

Many children have difficulty coping with significant losses, and they may struggle with sadness, anxiety and trouble sleeping.

Bullying or Social Difficulties

Children who deal with bullying may experience a higher rate of emotional and mental challenges.

If these difficulties are unaddressed, these issues can quickly impact almost every aspect of their life.

Health-Related Challenges

Serious health issues can be overwhelming for children, whether they are experiencing their own medical condition or dealing with a loved one’s illness.

A child facing chronic illness, hospitalization, or physical disability may struggle with fear, frustration, or feelings of isolation. Similarly, when a parent or sibling is diagnosed with a severe illness, children may experience anxiety, sadness, or confusion about the situation.

Benefits of Therapy for Children in Different Age Groups

Therapy has many benefits across different age groups:

• Early Childhood (Ages 3-6): Helps with emotional expression, socialization, and coping with separation anxiety or developmental delays.

• Middle Childhood (Ages 7-12): Supports emotional regulation, builds confidence, and provides tools for managing academic stress, peer pressure, and behavioral challenges.

• Adolescence (Ages 13-18): Aids in navigating identity, mental health struggles, social relationships, and academic or future-planning stress.

• Across All Ages: Encourages healthy communication, strengthens emotional resilience, and equips children with lifelong coping skills.

Types of Therapy for Children 

There are various types of therapy available for children.

Some therapists focus on one specific type while others are trained in various types.

The kind of therapy you choose will depend on your child's developmental stage, specific concerns, and treatment goals.

Play Therapy

Play therapy is a type of psychotherapy that uses structured play, games, toys and activities. It helps children process emotions, deal with challenges and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps children identify and change negative thought patterns. Through CBT, children can learn to manage their behaviors and emotions while improving their relationships with others.

Family Therapy

Family therapy can enhance communication among members. It is also utilized to evaluate family dynamics, which may influence the child's behaviors. F

amily therapy can strengthen family ties and promote more effective conflict resolution skills, resulting in improved mental health for the child.

When To Talk to a Professional

If you notice any emotional or behavioral symptoms in your child that suggest a problem, it's important to consult a professional.

Your pediatrician can provide guidance, rule out underlying issues, and may refer you to a therapist in your area.

Additionally, Emora Health can help you find therapists specializing in counseling for children.

Parents' Role in Supporting Your Child's Mental Health

Parents and caregivers play a critical role in their child's mental health by supporting them at home.

You can help your child develop the skills they learn during therapy sessions by incorporating them into daily activities. 

For instance, you can encourage your child to practice communication skills at mealtime. If there's a conflict with a sibling, you can motivate them to use positive conflict resolution techniques.

Additionally, you can support your child by staying informed and educated about their specific needs and the type of therapy they are receiving.

Final Thoughts 

Regardless of the type of therapy you choose, seeking professional help for your child can help them learn to manage their emotions.

By connecting with a counselor, you provide your child the opportunity to better understand their mind and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Find a Virtual Therapist for Your Child with Emora Health

Emora Health connects families with licensed therapists who specialize in ADHD and evidence-based treatments like behavioral therapy, CBT, and social skills training.

Emora Health emphasizes a holistic approach, addressing not only the child's ADHD symptoms but also the well-being of the entire family. By offering resources, counseling, and education, they help create a supportive environment where children can thrive.

Get started today.

Sources

1. Rivara F, Le Menestrel S., Preventing Bullying Through Science, Policy, and Practice. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2016 Sep 14. 4, Consequences of Bullying Behavior. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK390414/

2. D'Onofrio B, Emery R. Parental divorce or separation and children's mental health. World Psychiatry. 2019 Feb;18(1):100-101. doi: 10.1002/wps.20590. PMID: 30600636; PMCID: PMC6313686. Retrieved from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6313686/         

3. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425596