How do I know if my child needs therapy?
Many children go through normal stages of development where they seem
sad,
stressed, lonely, angry, have odd habits or behaviors, complain of
stomach or head-aches, problems sleeping or eating, occasional
nightmares or bed-wetting, and sometimes act
naughty and oppositional.
These symptoms are often the result of stress,
loss or change and will subside with proper supportive management.
However, when they persist (more than six weeks) and/or begin to effect
the child's health, their performance in school, or the well-being of
the parents or family, it is time to seek help.
A consultation with me
can help you understand the extent and seriousness of child's symptoms
and the causes of the underlying distress. I can help you determine if
therapy, medication, an educational or psychological evaluation or other
interventions (as in the case of teens) should be pursued.
It is best to seek professional help when problems arise, before they
get worse. Children and teens are resilient and open, and sometimes a
little therapy goes a long way.
Providing our children and teens
with therapy gives them the
opportunity to work
through their problems early in life. They can learn to become resilient
and gain the skills and confidence to succeed throughout the rest of
their development. Like
building strong bones, therapy can help children and teens build the
psychological foundations to lead happier, healthier, more productive
lives.