When a child is struggling, everyone who loves them may be struggling too. Struggles don’t exist in a vacuum and when one family member struggles, everyone is impacted. You and your family members are in this together.
We know that you are the experts in your family and child’s lives and experts know when to call for outside support. Knowing you need help is a sign that you are deeply in tune with your child’s needs. Decade2Connect’s Child Therapy services are designed to address these needs and support your child’s emotional well-beingEven as each child is unique and may have different needs at different times, the following signs are clear indicators that your child might benefit from therapy:
Behavioral Changes
If you notice significant changes in your child’s behavior, such as acting out, withdrawing, or having trouble with attention and focus, therapy may be a valuable option. A shift in behavior can typically be a result of underlying emotional or mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression or ADHD. In moments when we want to reprimand or correct, therapy actually serves as an empathic, constructive alternative. Why? Therapy can address the root cause of their behavior and develop coping skills to manage their emotions in more positive ways.
Emotional Distress
Is your child consistently sad, anxious, angry, or exhibiting other intense emotions? Therapy may be a helpful tool in managing and giving understanding to these feelings. At Decade2Connect, our therapeutic model is based on Emotionally Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), providing your child with a safe environment for processing these emotions that may feel too big for them to deal with on their own.
Trauma or Abuse
Children who have experienced trauma or abuse often struggle with a range of emotional, behavioral and mental health issues. They may have difficulty trusting others, deal with anxiety or depression, or constantly be in a state of fight or flight. Therapy can help children who have experienced trauma process their experiences, rebuild trusting relationships and develop coping strategies. As a result, your child will find hope and harmony in the midst of difficulty and build strength and resilience.
Mental Health Diagnoses
Children with diagnosed mental health conditions, such as ADHD, depression, or anxiety, may benefit from therapy as part of their treatment plan. A new diagnosis can be a lot to process for a child and never are you and your child expected to process these changes on your own. A therapist is experienced in supporting children as they process what their diagnosis means, the social changes attached to it and in many cases, processing the changes that come from taking a new medication.
Struggles with Relationships
As we grow, relationships become more complex and more difficult to understand. Many children feel they don’t fit in with their friends anymore or feel misunderstood by the people closest to them. Children that are having trouble with friendships or family relationships may benefit from therapy to help them overcome these social challenges and manage conflicts.
Difficulty Adapting to Change
As we all do, children often feel a variety of emotions when faced with changes, such as stress, anxiety, loneliness and confusion. These life changes, such as a move, divorce, or loss of a loved one, are difficult for a child to process, as they may not have the understanding for the change in the world around them. Understanding these changes and the emotions that come with them are benefits that come with finding a therapist for your child.
Seeking therapy for your family and child is an important decision. Early support can be helpful for many children, even if they are not experiencing any specific challenges. If you have concerns about your child’s emotional or behavioral well-being, connect with Decade2Connect today! One of our therapists can help you assess the need for therapy and provide guidance on next steps.
