How to know if your child needs therapy: a guide for parents

By: Marissa Pollet

As a parent, it's natural to worry about your child's well-being. While occasional mood swings and behavioral changes are part of growing up, there are times when these changes may signal a deeper issue. Recognizing that your child may need therapy can be challenging, but early intervention can make a significant difference and set them on the course for mental well-being as they continue to develop. Let’s explore the signs that your child might need professional help, the best ways to assist them, and how to support them through the process.

Recognizing the Signs

Children express distress in various ways, some easier than others to recognize, but here are some of the signs that your child might benefit from therapy:

 Persistent Sadness or Withdrawal: If your child seems consistently sad, withdrawn, or uninterested in activities they once enjoyed, it may indicate depression or anxiety. Maybe you have noticed a shift in your child, the once happy person you knew seems noticeably different and often isolates themselves in their bedroom. This sudden change can serve as a red flag that your child may need more personal one on one therapy.

Changes in Behavior: Sudden shifts in behavior, such as aggressive outbursts, extreme mood swings, or excessive irritability, can be indicators as well. Although it may be hard to discern from typical developmental behavior, if you notice mood swings that are consistently out of the norm for your child, it may be an indication of a deeper issue.

Decline in Academic Performance: A noticeable drop in grades or a lack of interest in schoolwork might suggest underlying issues.

Social Isolation: If your child is avoiding friends or social situations, it could be a sign of social anxiety or other emotional difficulties.

Physical Symptoms: Frequent headaches, stomachaches, or other unexplained physical complaints can sometimes be linked to emotional distress. As the levels of stress or worrisome thoughts rise in your child, they may present with physical symptoms that are linked to their internal struggles.

Regressive Behaviors: Younger children might revert to earlier behaviors, such as bedwetting or clinginess, as a response to stress.
Self-Harm or Talk of Suicide: Any indication of self-harm or suicidal thoughts should be taken very seriously and addressed immediately with professional help.

The Best Ways to Help Your Child

If you suspect your child may need therapy, taking the right steps can ensure they receive the support they need:

Talk to Your Child: Start by having an open and honest conversation with your child. Use age-appropriate language to express your concerns and listen to their feelings without judgment. Opening the lines of communication and leading with notion that therapy is a safe space for them to express their thoughts and gain support when needed is helpful. Expressing to your child that you support them and will be happy to join in on sessions when deemed appropriate may help to lessen their hesitation of speaking with a therapist. It is not a punishment but an act of love to ensure that your child has the resources they need as they navigate their thoughts and feelings.

Consult with Professionals: Reach out to your child's pediatrician, school counselor, or a child psychologist for an initial assessment. They can help determine if therapy is necessary and recommend appropriate resources.

Choose the Right Therapist: Look for a therapist who has the proper credentials and specializes in working with children and adolescents. The right therapist will create a safe, welcoming environment for your child.

Involve Your Child in the Process: Allow your child to have a say in selecting a therapist and scheduling sessions. This can help them feel more in control and comfortable with the decision to seek therapy. The therapeutic process is about them, so involving your child as much as possible will allow them to feel more at ease in this new journey.

Supporting Your Child Through Therapy

Therapy can be a transformative experience for your child. Here’s how you can provide ongoing support:

Be Patient and Understanding: Therapy is a journey, and progress can take time. Celebrate small victories and remain patient through setbacks. The road may be rocky at first but stay consistent with the goals your child has knowing that change does not happen overnight. It will take practice much like anything else in life to implement new techniques and behaviors.

Encourage Open Communication: Keep the lines of communication open with your child. Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings about therapy and their progress. If your child is in the mood to share, take the time to sit down with them and eliminate all other distractions and provide supportive feedback that allows them to feel validated.

Respect Their Privacy: While it's important to stay informed about their therapy, respect your child's privacy. Allow them to share details at their own pace. Focus on open communication but in a manner that does not make your child feel pressured to share every detail. This provides them with a sense of autonomy and the ability to implement change at their own pace.

Reinforce Positive Behaviors: Praise your child for their efforts in therapy and any positive changes you observe in their behavior or mood. Recognizing the positive is crucial to staying the course towards life-long mental well-being. Your child will want to feel that you support all of the hard work they are doing mentally.

Stay Involved: Stay in regular contact with your child's therapist to stay updated on their progress and any additional steps you can take at home.

Take Care of Yourself: Supporting a child through therapy can be emotionally taxing. Ensure you’re also taking care of your mental health to provide the best support possible. As a parent, you are a crucial part of the wellness process. Be sure to take care of your own needs and seek support from family and friends as you navigate your role in helping your child in therapeutic process.

Therapy is a Sign of Strength:

Knowing when your child needs therapy and how to support them can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone. By recognizing the signs, seeking professional help, and offering consistent support, you can help your child navigate their challenges and thrive.

Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and your proactive steps can make a lasting impact on your child's well-being.

Our team of caring professionals at Inspired Wellness are here to provide support and guidance towards your path of mental wellness. We believe that every individual has the ability to be the best version of themselves and our goal is to set you up with the tools to maintain a well-balanced life that will place you on the path towards lifelong change. We strive to create a non-judgmental environment coupled with therapeutic practices that are tailored towards each individual. At Inspired Wellness our team aims to do exactly as our name says, inspire you towards a beautiful life of strength and wellness!