Key Takeaways

• There are several telltale signs that a child might need therapy. Parents should watch out for these signs.

• Finding the right type of therapist is the key to successful treatment. There are several places you can go for help.

• It’s vital to ask your child’s therapist the right questions to make sure it’s a good fit. Don't be afraid to speak out if this isn’t the case.

Every child runs into occasional challenges. Traumatic events like bullying, death, or other issues can trigger the development of emotional or behavioral issues.  If your child isn’t doing well, therapy can help. 

Every child is different. Therefore, finding the right counselor that best suits their age, needs, and preferences is important.

Signs Your Child May Need Therapy

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 1 out of every 7 children have a mental or behavioral health condition.

Parents want what's best for their children. That includes caring for their emotional well-being. However, it can be hard to recognize if they need help.

Understanding what to look for can help you determine when to consult a professional.

Emotional, Behavioral or Social Concerns 

Children experience a wide range of emotions and behaviors. 

However, there are a few clear signs that something may be wrong. These include:

• Resisting going to school in the mornings

• Have significant difficulty making friends

• Losing interest in things they used to enjoy

• Often irritable, tearful, or anxious 

Major Life Changes or Trauma

Major life changes or trauma can have negative consequences for your child's mental health.

Studies suggest that long-distance separation due to divorce and relocation is linked to behavioral problems, anxiety, and depression symptoms. 

Children dealing with death may also experience prolonged grief that deeply impacts their mental health.

Types of Child Therapists and Their Specialties 

Does your child need a counselor, social worker, or therapist? What is the difference between them? Here’s an overview.

Child Psychologists 

A child psychologist typically has a higher level of training than a counselor. Their education and experience allow them to conduct in-depth psychological assessments and diagnose mental health disorders.

Child Counselors

A child counselor usually holds a master's degree and focuses on providing support and therapy for emotional and behavioral issues. They can help a child cope with various issues including grief and trauma. 

Play Therapists

A trained play therapist is specifically trained to use play as a therapeutic tool to help children work through and express difficult experiences, emotions, and situations.

Play therapy can be provided by several types of mental health professionals including counselors and social workers.

Specializations

Child therapists often have a variety of specializations. 

For example, some therapists specialize in applied behavioral therapy (ABA), which is a specific type of therapy for those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. It can be very helpful to ask about the therapist's specializations before making an appointment.

Where To Start Your Search

The idea of finding a therapist for your child might seem overwhelming at first. However, it’s easy to find help for your child if you know where to look.

Pediatrician Referrals

Your pediatrician may be a good place to start when looking for a therapist. Many pediatricians have trusted therapists who they refer to.

School Counselors and Mental Health Resources

 Your child's school counselor may observe their behavior at school and have some concerns. Contact them, and they may be able to offer you insight into mental health resources or child therapists in your community. 

Online Therapist Directories

Online therapist directories like Emora can help you find the right therapist for your child. 

Emora is a comprehensive online therapist directory showcasing the names of children's therapists, along with personal bios, skills, specialties, and other information to assist you in making a decision. 

What makes Emora unique is that all therapists in this directory are youth specialists, and you can sort them by the age ranges they work with.

Questions To Ask a Potential Therapist

It's important to feel comfortable with your child's therapist. You'll better understand what their services entail by asking questions about their techniques, experience, and session structure.

What Are Your Experience and Qualifications?

A child therapist must usually have at least a master’s degree. 

They should also have some type of qualification or training in child therapy. By looking for a therapist with the right qualifications, you can ensure that they have the necessary education, skills, and knowledge to address your child’s needs and provide the best possible care.

What Is Your Therapy Approach? What Techniques Do You Use?

The approach used by your child's therapist influences how effectively your concerns are addressed. Child therapy uses many different techniques, from art therapy to family therapy. Knowing the techniques the therapist plans to utilize can help you better understand how therapy will help your child.

How Are Sessions Structured? 

The structure of child therapy sessions can vary depending on the child’s age, the type of therapy, and other factors. Finding out about the structure of their sessions gives you a better idea of what to expect. 

What Kind of Parent Involvement Is Expected?

With child therapy, parents are expected to be involved in sessions to some extent. Ask the therapist about your expected level of involvement. Make sure you can commit to being involved in sessions. 

How To Evaluate a Therapist's Fit for Your Child

Finding the right therapist can take a bit of work sometimes. It can be hard to figure out whether the therapist you have chosen is the right one. 

Here are some ways to determine if you have made the right choice.

Trial Sessions and First Impressions

Ask about a trial session. Most therapists are open to a trial session to ensure it is a good fit. Above all, trust your instincts. If you don't feel they are right for the job, keep looking.

Adjust if Therapy Doesn't Seem To Be Working

Sometimes, a child may like the therapist, but the treatment or techniques need to be adjusted to address their needs. When discussing the treatment plan, make sure to openly communicate your concerns with the therapist.

Insurance and Payment Options

Many parents are concerned with whether they can afford therapy. Most therapists accept various forms of payment, including insurance and other options, to deliver affordable care.

Check Insurance Coverage

To check whether your child's insurance covers therapy, call your insurance provider or visit their website. You’ll also want to find out if the therapist is in network with your insurance company.

Sliding Scale and Financial Assistance Options

 Many therapists provide services at a sliding scale, adjusting fees based on income to ensure their services are accessible to all families. This ensures that low-fee therapy is available to those who need it most.

Takeaway

Some parents worry that sending their child to therapy reflects poorly upon them.

Your willingness to seek treatment for your child means you deeply care about their well-being. By finding a compassionate therapist to work with your child, you can significantly improve their emotional health and mental well-being.

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. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), (Jan 2025), Data and Statistics on Children's Mental Health. Retrieved from: https://www.cdc.gov/children-mental-health/data-research/index.html

2. Stevenson MM, Fabricius WV, Braver SL, Cookston JT. Associations between Parental Relocation Following Separation in Childhood and Maladjustment in Adolescence and Young Adulthood. Psychol Public Policy Law. 2018 Aug;24(3):365-378. doi: 10.1037/law0000172.  PMID: 30410297; PMCID: PMC6217824.      

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