Child And Teen Counseling In Greensboro, NC
Kids and teens that go to therapy learn how to uncover their feelings and address negative or unwanted thoughts. For kids, it’s not always easy recognizing that a stomachache isn’t just a stomachache. Or why, no matter how much they study, grades continue to go down.
As a therapist that works and kids and teens, I want to share with you an inside look into what a typical session looks like and how therapy can help your child.
Right away, I want you to know that it is different.
Working with a child or teen in a therapy room is different than working with an adult. One key reason is age. The other is the place in life that your child is at compared to where you are at.
Read the case study below to learn more about how counseling can help your child.
Jackson started counseling with a local teen counselor in his area. His parents searched for a teen counselor that focused on self-esteem and suicidal thoughts. During the initial phone call to the office, Jackson’s parents told the counselor that transitioning to high school was rough. Things became challenging and the school counselor pulled in the parents to tell them that their son expressed suicidal thoughts. During the first session, the counselor pulled out his phone and asked Jackson to pick out a few songs he enjoyed listening to. The songs played in the background as the counselor continued to the session. Jackson shared “I feel different. I wasn’t like this in middle school. I think it’s because we moved. I’m actually not from North Carolina.” The counselor asked Jackson, “what was it like moving?” Jackson stated, “it sucks. I hate it. I don’t know anyone in my house. I honestly feel like this anger inside. Angry at my parents. And sometimes I get so upset that I start crying. That’s when I feel like something is wrong with me.” As the counselor listened, Jackson shifted his tone and demeanor. The counselor encouraged Jackson to share as much or as little as he wanted. As the session concluded, the counselor encouraged Jackson to create a music playlist focused on songs that bring him joy. He also asked Jackson to reflect on the session.
In the case example above, you are able to reflect on how the counselor provided the client with a healthy space to address the emotional and life challenges taking place. Please be mindful the example is one of many. I simply want to provide you with an inside look at a child therapy session.
Should My Child See A Therapist?
This is such a great question because it comes from a place of concern. As a parent myself, I completely understand the position of wanting the very best for your child.
I want you to reflect on your child’s life.
- Think about their development and those who have left a mark in your child’s life.
- Consider your child’s behaviors and thinking patterns.
- If they are in school, think of their academic performance and ability to show up in social spaces.
- When your child is at home, explore their behavior and ability to connect with family members.
The areas above provide you, as the parent with the opportunity to explore how your child is doing.
Some parents seek therapy for their children because they are ready to see a shift in behavior. Others seek a child therapist to support them with unwanted behaviors or habits.
As a counselor that works with kids and teens, I find it vital for parents to connect with their kids on the topic of working with a counselor. Ask your child directly if they would like to see a counselor. Let your child sit with you while you read over the bios of different counselors.
The office of Santos Counseling PLLC has lots of informative videos, articles, and bios on the counselors. This is to give you the opportunity to identify who you feel comfortable with.
Why Your Child May Need To See A Therapist
- Separation anxiety.
- Suicidal thoughts.
- Anger outburst.
- Struggling to express thoughts and feelings.
- Excessive fearfulness.
- Feeling worried more days than not.
- A decline in academic performance.
- Wetting the bed.
- Struggling to make friends.
Are you ready to start counseling for your child?
To start counseling call our counseling office at 336-663-6570 or email [email protected]. The office coordinator will speak with you, learn what is taking place, and provide you with a counselor that fits your needs.
The Benefits Of Kids Therapy
- Improve self-confidence and self-esteem.
- Effectively deal with life challenges.
- Learn positive habits and behaviors.
- Improve healthy thinking patterns.
- Learn to communicate in a healthy and constructive manner.
What To Look For In A Counselor
Key items to keep in mind when picking a counselor to support your child include:
- A counselor that is willing to connect with your child.
- They hold the knowledge and specific training in working with minors.
- The counselor is able to work with your child and share feedback with the parents.
- You (the parent) feel comfortable with the counselor.
Additional supportive reads for raising healthy and happy kids:
