Child & adolescent therapy
Child and adolescent therapy is a specialized form of counseling that assists clients in coping with a variety of emotional and behavioral issues. It can help children and teens build resilience, develop healthy coping skills, improve relationships, and overcome stressors in their lives. At Geode Health, your child’s provider will work to create a safe space where kids and teens can express themselves freely while being supported by an experienced professional.
The purpose of therapy for children & teens
Child and adolescent therapy can have a variety of goals, depending on the individual needs of each client. These goals might include:
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Improving communication skills
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Developing healthier relationships with peers and adults
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Learning to identify and express emotions in healthy ways
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Improving impulse control, problem-solving, decision-making, and coping skills
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Increasing self-esteem and self-worth
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Building resilience and a sense of purpose
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Addressing feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger
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Developing an understanding of their own identity and values
In addition to helping children achieve these goals, therapy can also provide a space for parents or other caregivers to learn more about providing the best possible support for the individual needs of their child. Your provider will work with the child or adolescent in conjunction with the parents so that the client can thrive within the family unit.
When should your child see a therapist?
There are several situations where it may be beneficial to seek out therapy for your child or teen. It can provide support as they navigate through various life transitions, such as moving, changing schools, a family divorce, or the loss of a loved one. Therapy can help children develop healthy coping skills when dealing with bullying or peer pressure, as well as guide them in times of stress.
Common signs that indicate the need for child therapy include:
- Regular outbursts of anger
- Problems with impulse control
- Withdrawal from family and friends
- Difficulty regulating emotions
- Low self-esteem
- Feelings of sadness or hopelessness
- Decline in school performance
- Disruptive behavior at home or school
- Ongoing stress or anxiety
- Substance abuse concerns
- Trauma
If these issues are disrupting your child’s life and causing distress, it may be time to consider therapy. Your Geode provider will assess the child or teen’s behavior and evaluate any signs of underlying mental health conditions, neurological or developmental disorders, or other challenges that may be impacting their well-being.
Forms of child & adolescent therapy
ABA therapy
Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a form of treatment that uses positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors. ABA therapy is most commonly used to support children with autism and developmental disabilities. Children learn how to recognize their emotions, understand consequences of actions, and develop healthy coping skills.
Find the right mental health provider for your family
At Geode, we understand how important it is to find the right therapist, counselor, or psychiatrist for your child. Our providers are experienced in working with children and adolescents and can provide specialized help and care tailored to their needs. Contact us today to learn more about our individualized approach to child therapy and get started on a path to success with your child or teen. Start by finding a Geode location near you or by booking an appointment online.
If you are in crisis and in need of immediate support
Please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988 or text the Crisis Text Line by texting HELLO to 741741