Child Counseling
About Child Counseling
Not having the language and vocabulary to express their feelings like adults, children rely on behavior to express themselves emotionally. Without being able to talk through a conflict, or explain the origins of their concerns, they often resort to acting out behaviorally.
Even if these behaviors are a normal and natural part of a child’s development, it doesn’t mean they are easy to deal with. Often children will express feeling out of control and not understanding their own reactions, wanting to stop but not knowing how. And as a parent you might feel worried, frustrated or sad to see your child going through these things. It can leave you feeling helpless and unsure where to turn for help, or even know if help is warranted.
Finding a skilled child therapist is one of the best ways, to not only help your child understand and process their experiences, but also, help you, as a parent/guardian, better understand how to support your child through their ups and downs.
Reasons for Seeking Children’s Counseling:
- Challenging behavior (i.e. tantrums, not listening, not following directions, difficulty at school)
- Recent life changes (i.e. divorce, beginning school, birth of a sibling)
- Anxiety (separation anxiety, avoidance of things that make them feel bad)
- Bullying
- Peer rejection
- Low self esteem
- Perfectionism
How Child Counseling Works
Just as every child learns differently, every child responds better to different types of therapy. Some are more reserved while others are very outgoing. The key to successful child therapy lies in getting to know your child, establishing a trusting relationship and understanding what will help them best. This is often done through use of play therapy and other creative techniques.
What is play therapy?
Play therapy is to children what talk therapy is to adults. Play therapy utilizes play, children’s natural medium of communication, to help them express their feelings more easily in a way that makes sense to them. Play is a child’s language and toys are the child’s words. Though children lack the cognitive skills to express themselves with words, they are fluent in the language of play. Play therapy allows them to express themselves in the way in which they are most comfortable.
Play is a clear way to bring context and “language” to your child’s behaviors. As a therapist trained in the language of play, I can take the experience of what your child is playing and translate that experience back to you. We then become a team and work on building continued connection and understanding between you and your child.
Play is not only a great way for your child to express their feelings, as well as feel seen and heard, but it can also be a fun and creative way to teach your child age appropriate ways to understand and deal with their emotions, giving them necessary coping skills they can keep in their “tool box” for life.
Benefits of Children’s Counseling
- Improved communication with family
- Greater acceptance of their feelings
- Enhanced self-control and frustration tolerance
- Better decision making skills
- Greater problem solving abilities
- Higher self esteem
Your Personal “Child Whisperer”
Hi, I’m Courtnie, and I’m a child therapist here in Miami, with a special talent in speaking the language of children. You can think of me as your very own child translator, a neutral third party that can explain your child’s behavior and help you understand their emotional needs. I want to truly get to know your family, and I’ll make sure that you each feel comfortable throughout the process. For both children and families, my therapy sessions are relaxed, collaborative, and effective.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment.
Common Questions Parents Ask
How old does my child have to be in order to benefit from child therapy?
Children of any age can benefit from child counseling and play therapy! The structure of the session may look different depending on the age of your child. Once we’ve spoken, I’ll work with you to decide the best way to support your family.
What if my child won’t agree to come or is scared about coming?
It is natural that your child (or you) might feel some hesitation about starting something new! This is very common, and completely understandable. If you feel this is the case for your family, we can discuss this during your initial consultation, where I can provide you with tips on how to talk to your child about therapy, and also how to navigate the emotions that may come up during the first session.
How do I know my child is in need of therapy?
It can be hard to know if what your child is experiencing is a phase or something more serious. The way I see it, everyone can benefit from support no matter how big or small their problem may be! If you’re ever wondering if play therapy is something that you need please do not hesitate to reach out and schedule a free consultation. During that time I’ll listen and work with you to come up with a plan that works for your family.
I think my child needs support but I’m worried about the expense.
Child counseling and play therapy is an investment in your child and your relationship with them. By taking the time to develop a strong connection with your child now, you are potentially preventing problems that may arise in the future.
