Searching for the right therapist for your child can be hard. There are probably a slew of questions crossing your mind:
“How much support does my child need?”
“What is the most affordable option?”
“Who can I trust?”
These are just a few of the questions you may be struggling to answer. At Decade2Connect, we’re committed to helping each family and child receive the support they need. Our Child Therapy services offer a range of evidence-based approaches tailored to meet your child’s unique needs.
If you’re wondering where to start, check out some factors to consider below:
Therapist Experience: First things first, you want to find a child therapist with proper experience. There’s a wide variety of specialties and it is possible to find a therapist with specific training for the support your child needs. At Decade2Connect, we deeply value our clinical team’s past experience with children. Therapeutic techniques can be taught but the ability to connect with children is one of the most valuable assets of a child’s experience.
Therapeutic Approach: Different therapies have different goals and methods, so it is important to find a child therapist whose approach aligns with your goals and values. Does your child need a safe space to talk about their emotions? Are they active and benefit from moving their body? Do they express themselves through art? There are many therapeutic modalities and it’s important to consider which approach is the most beneficial for your child.
Your Child’s Comfort Level: It is crucial for your child to feel comfortable and safe with their therapist. Check in with your child for the first few sessions and ask them how they are feeling about their therapeutic relationship. If they are uncomfortable, don’t be afraid to look for alternative options. In order to truly find hope and harmony in your child’s journey, this is an important step.
Communication and Rapport: Are YOU comfortable with your child’s therapist? Do you feel they are communicating effectively with both you and your child? Have they established a rapport that allows for open and honest discussion? You are equally involved in this process as your child is and it’s important to find a therapist who values the whole family system and communicates effectively.
Cost and insurance: The unfortunate reality of therapy is: it’s not always affordable. Consider your budget and search for providers in your insurance network. If you can’t find the right fit, however, many providers are open to having conversations for affordable options.
While Decade2Connect is private pay, we aim to provide affordable and accessible health care for all families. Not only do we offer a reduced rate for our outpatient therapy, we also offer limited pro-bono slots for our Intensive Outpatient Program. Many mental health providers will work with you to ensure cost is not a barrier to the proper services your child needs.
The search for a child therapist can be exhausting. When you’re looking for support for your child, you just want someone who will advocate for them like you do. While finding proper treatment isn’t always easy, it’s not impossible.
If you are feeling completely lost in taking that first step, fill out the form below. We are here to walk alongside you and your family in seeking the best care for your child.
