A child covers her face while being comforted by their mother. Learn how a child therapist in tigard, or can offer support with child therapist near me, and other services. Search for child counseling in tigard, or to learn more about family Christian counseling center of Phoenix today.

Benefits of Child Therapy

The benefits of therapy for children are numerous. Children who receive therapy are better equipped to handle stress, build healthy relationships, and develop coping skills. These will serve them well throughout their lives. Therapy can also help children overcome specific challenges. These challenges could be anxiety, depression, or behavioral issues, and improve their overall quality of life. Earlier intervention has shown to be most effective in helping the child to grow resilience and adaptability. 

Signs to Look For

As a parent or guardian, it can be difficult to determine if a child needs to go to therapy. It is important to be aware of any changes in your child's behavior or emotional state. This could indicate the need for professional support. Some signs that a child may benefit from therapy include:

A child sits against a hallway wall while covering their face. This could represent the isolation that a child therapist in tigard, or can address. Learn more about child counseling in tigard, or, and other services by searching “child therapist near me” today.
  1. Changes in mood: If your child is experiencing frequent mood swings or seems to be consistently unhappy, irritable, or anxious, therapy may be beneficial.
  2. Changes in behavior: If your child is acting out, engaging in self-harm, experiencing issues with substance abuse, or any behavior that is out of the norm for them, therapy may be necessary to help them navigate what is underneath the behavior change.
  3. Changes in academic performance: If your child's grades are declining, they may be struggling with mental health issues that require additional support. 
  4. Traumatic events: If your child has experienced a traumatic event, such as the loss of a loved one, a serious illness or injury, or a natural disaster, therapy can help them process their emotions and move forward.

What to Expect For Your Child in Therapy

When it comes to choosing a child therapist, it can be overwhelming and intimidating. I chatted with my colleague, Melissa Polensky, who is a child and adolescent therapist here at Discover Counseling. Melissa commented that it’s appropriate to ask the therapist what approach they work from. For example, some therapists may specialize in certain approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or play therapy. So, it is important to find a therapist whose approach resonates with you and your child. It’s also appropriate to have regular check-ins with the therapist regarding your child’s progress. And to address any concerns or questions you may have. 

A close up of a woman with a clipboard smiling at a child. This could represent the support a child therapist in tigard, or can offer. Learn more about child counseling in tigard, or by searching for “child therapist near me” today.

Melissa also emphasized the importance for children to feel comfortable coming to counseling. It’s not uncommon for children to play games or color in therapy. This is often done so as a way to build safety and rapport with the child. It’s a balance between challenging the child in their mental health goals. But also simultaneously creating a welcoming, positive environment for them. 

Ultimately, the decision to seek therapy for your child is a personal one. If you are concerned about your child's emotional well-being or behavior, it may be worth considering therapy as an option. If you are unsure, reach out and ask for a consultation with a therapist to see if it’s the right next step. With the help of a licensed therapist, your child can build the skills and resilience needed to thrive and overcome any challenges that come their way.

Begin Working With a Child Therapist in Tigard, OR

You and your child deserve support in overcoming the issues affecting you most. At our Tigard, OR counseling clinic, we are ready to help your child with the feelings and life challenges they are faced with. If you are ready to get started with your team of caring therapists, follow these three simple steps:

  1. Book an appointment online, at your convenience.
  2. Meet with one of our caring counselors.
  3. Return to the joy of loving and connecting with your child!

Other Therapy Services in Tigard, OR

Here in the Portland area, you have a lot of options for quality therapy. We are so pleased you've chosen to let us work with your beloved child or children! In addition to counseling for children and adolescents, we can also help with a number of other issues for adults. At our Tigard therapy office, we provide addiction treatment, trauma therapy, family and relationship counseling, marriage and couples therapy, divorce/discernment counseling, birth trauma and postpartum counseling, Christian counseling, and therapy for anxiety.