Key takeaways

• Child therapy helps manage mental health conditions affecting kids’ well-being. It reduces symptoms, improves communication, and develops coping strategies to deal with life challenges.

• Common types of child therapy include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family therapy, group therapy, art therapy, and play therapy.

• Therapy follows a structured process. The therapist observes the child’s behaviors, discusses challenges, and introduces exercises to reinforce learning.

Children can often struggle with problems they can’t cope with on their own. Many parents want to help but don’t know where to start.

This article explains how therapy works for children and offers valuable tips on choosing the right therapist for your child.

What Is Child Therapy?

Child therapy is a psychological treatment for issues affecting children’s well-being. It helps children manage their mental health conditions and improve functioning at home and school.

When Does a Child Need Therapy?

All children can sometimes become sad, irritable, or aggressive. Some might have a harder time sitting still or interacting with others, but these behaviors are often a normal part of their development.

Some children face challenges they can’t handle alone, such as bullying, their parents' separation, or losing a pet.

It can be hard to tell when it’s time to seek help. Consider therapy if symptoms persist, cause significant distress, or interfere with your child’s functioning.

Signs a child may need therapy can vary by age:

In younger children:

• Frequent tantrums or persistent irritability

• Excessive fear or worry

• Unexplained stomach aches or headaches

• Difficulty sitting still

• Sleep problems, frequent nightmares, daytime sleepiness

• Struggles in school

• Repetitive behaviors or excessive checking

In older children:

• Loss of interest in things they once enjoyed

• Low energy levels

• Sleeping too much or too little

• Periods of extreme energy

• Spending more time alone or avoiding social activities

• Excessive dieting or exercise

• Self-harm behaviors

• Smoking, drinking, or drug use

• Suicidal thoughts

• Beliefs of mind control or hearing voices others can’t hear

Types of Therapy for Children

Therapy is a broad term that describes many different approaches, techniques, and interventions.

Common types of therapy include:

Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT)

CBT is based on the idea that changing negative thought patterns can improve emotional well-being.

CBT is effective in treating various mental health conditions in children, including anxiety, depression, and ADHD.

Family therapy

Family therapy is a treatment that looks not only at the child but also at all family members.

It’s designed to help families function better by improving communication, strengthening their relationships, and reducing conflict.

Group therapy

Group therapy refers to therapy sessions delivered in a group setting, usually including 5 to 8 children. It helps children recognize that others face similar challenges.

Art therapy

In art therapy, children express their feelings through drawings, paintings, sculptures, and other creative activities.

Play therapy

In play therapy, children use play to work through challenges, which helps support their growth and development.

The Child Therapy Process

Therapy typically follows a structured format, though it may vary based on the type of therapy.

Initial Assessment

The first session may involve just the child and therapist, or parents and family members may also be invited.

The therapist will observe the child, ask questions, and administer tests to assess specific skills. The main goal is to identify any major challenges the child may be facing.

How Sessions Are Structured

The structure of each session depends on the type of therapy and the child’s needs.

In CBT, sessions usually begin by assessing the child’s emotional state. The therapist and child review exercises from the previous session, discussing success and difficulties.

Together, they decide what to focus on during the current session. The therapist helps the child question negative thought patterns, and new exercises are reintroduced to reinforce learning.

The session ends with a review of the key takeaways, allowing the child to reflect and give feedback.

Benefits of Therapy for Children

Therapy not only reduces mental health symptoms but also improves daily functioning. In a study with children and teens with anxiety, therapy led to significant progress.

Key benefits of therapy for kids include:

Emotional and Behavioral Improvements

Therapy offers children a safe space to express their emotions, helping them better understand and manage their feelings.

Guided by a therapist, kids learn to communicate effectively, build stronger relationships, and develop healthier ways to respond to stress and frustration.

Building Coping Skills and Resilience

Through therapy, children gain valuable coping strategies to navigate life’s challenges. They learn problem-solving skills, emotional regulation techniques, and ways to handle difficult situations confidently.

Strengthening Family Relationships

Research shows that parents of children who responded well to therapy reported less emotional distress and improved family functioning by strengthening relationships and reducing conflict.

How to Choose the Right Therapist for Your Child

Child therapists specialize in child and adolescent development, as well as the challenges young people face.

Some focus on specific conditions like autism, anxiety, or ADHD. Others specialize in certain types of therapy or age groups.

If you’re unsure where to start, talk to your child’s pediatrician or school counselor and ask for referrals.

Your insurance provider may also assist in connecting you with a therapist specializing in your child's needs.

You may also visit websites of accredited organizations like the American Psychological Association (APA) Practice Organization or the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies.

When choosing a therapist for your child, make sure to verify their qualifications, including education, certifications, and an active license in your state.

Virtual Therapy Options

Virtual therapy can be a great option for busy parents. You can simply call or log into an app or website, and the session will take place at the most convenient time for you.

For some children, opening up to strangers can be tough. Online therapy can make it easier for them to express their thoughts and feelings.

How Parents Can Support Their Child’s Therapy Journey

Research shows that child therapy is often more effective when parents play an active role. Your support can help reinforce your child's progress and ensure they feel cared for.

Here’s how to support your child along the way:

Encouraging Open Communication

Create a safe space for your child to share their feelings. Let them know they can talk about their therapy sessions if they feel comfortable. Validate their emotions and build trust during the process.

Reinforcing Therapy Techniques at Home

Help your child apply what they learned by practicing key skills at home. Work with the therapist to reinforce coping strategies, behavioral techniques, and emotional regulation.

Setting Realistic Expectations for Progress

Keep in mind that progress takes time. Celebrate small wins, be patient about setbacks, and focus on long-term goals.

Encourage your child whenever possible, reminding them progress is a journey, not a race.

Frequently Asked Questions About Child Therapy

How Long Does Child Therapy Take?

How long therapy lasts depends on you and your child’s specific goals and needs.

Typically, therapists meet with children weekly for 30 to 60-minute sessions. It may take 12 to 16 sessions to see noticeable improvement.

Will My Child Need Medication Alongside Therapy?

Whether your child needs medication along with therapy depends on their needs and the severity of their mental health condition.

For example, doctors typically prescribe medication to manage issues like ADHD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia in children. Therapy in this case is used as an add-on treatment to help control the symptoms.

How Can I Tell If Therapy Is Working?

When therapy is effective, you’ll likely notice positive changes in your child’s behavior. Watch for signs such as reduced anxiety, fewer tantrums, and better ability to manage frustration.

They may show more interest in playing with friends or feel more comfortable in social situations.

As therapy progresses, kids often become more open about their feelings, express themselves better, and talk more about what’s going on in their lives.

Also, increased focus on schoolwork and consistently completing assignments can be a strong indication that therapy is making a difference.

Find a Virtual Child Therapist with Emora Health

At Emora Health, we have a network of child therapists who provide a wide variety of child therapy methods.

You can easily scan our therapists’ specialties, including the methods they use and age groups they work with, on their profiles. Whether your child needs emotional support through DBT, family therapy, or something else, we’ve got you covered.

Therapy helps children improve communication, build stronger relationships, and develop healthier ways to cope with life’s difficulties.

By supporting your child throughout therapy, you can help them grow emotionally and mentally.

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