Here at Betty Eastman & Associates, we view childhood as problem-free and an exciting time when kids are enjoying their lives and have no worries. When there are problems, children can be difficult to talk to and truly expressing their feeling on the subject. Childhood is not always the peaceful vision we would like for it to be. With child therapy, we look to connect with the child and have them open up regarding their issue or concerns.
Like adults, children can benefit from therapy. Child therapy will help children develop problem-solving skills while also aiding them learn the value of seeking help when they need it. It can also help children and their families when they are overwhelmed with stress or when dealing with emotional, educational and behavioral issues.
Child Therapy Approach
When working with your child, we use the three primary therapeutic approaches: cognitive (thoughts), psychodynamic (feelings) and behavioral to help your child deal with issues that concern him or her. Thoughts, behaviors and feelings interact with one another and must work in balance to achieve a good mental health.
Other factors come into play, such as your family background, culture, faith, spirituality and past experiences. Finally, there is empathy. It is important that your child understands that nothing he or she is feeling, doing or thinking is beyond our understanding or concern.
Life events can cause stress
There are many life events that can cause stress leading to a child’s problems with behavior, school performance or sleep disturbance. Perhaps a parent has left on a military deployment or there has been a death in the family. Separation or divorce may have resulted in the child acting out. It’s not always apparent what the cause of a child’s change in mood or behavior is, but parents should trust their instincts, even if the child cannot verbalize the problem.
Signs that a child may not be coping vary from child and by their ages. They may include: bedwetting, tearfulness, social withdrawal or isolation, depression, biting or hitting and a change in appetite or sleep patterns. Mood swings, substance abuse, physical complaints despite a normal physical exam by your doctor, a drop in grades and excessive absenteeism or tardiness also can be factors.
On-site testing services
In addition, child therapy may be beneficial when they have a suspected learning or attention problems, such as ADHD, or if there are concerns regarding autism or other disorders. We not only offer child therapy but also provide on-site testing and evaluation services to determine the correct diagnosis for your child.
Not only do we work with your child in our office, but we also advocate for their educational needs, so that they are receiving the special help needed in the classroom. Below you will find out contact information should you have any questions or would like to schedule a child therapy appointment.
If you have questions about child therapy or would like to schedule an counseling appointment, call Betty Eastman, LCSW & Associates, Inc., at (757) 868-0072. We serve Yorktown, Poquoson, Hampton and Newport News residents in teen and child therapy services.
