Does My Child Need a Counselor?

You love your kid and want the best for them. As a parent, you want to soothe every bump and bruise; deal with every trial and triumph. You want to help your child succeed in their endeavors and be their counselor when necessary.

Yet sometimes, parents, despite their best intentions, are not able to offer their children the help they truly need. For children who struggle with communication, perhaps related to trauma or being on the autistic spectrum, counseling can be a valuable resource. Maybe your child is in a season of change where would be helpful to talk with someone other than their mom or dad.

Giving your child a safe person to work through struggles and challenges will be a way to encourage them in maturity.

When is a counselor needed?

This is going to vary from child to child, but there are a few times that it would be helpful to consider counseling for your child.

• If they are having difficulty in school, academically or socially.
• If there has been a recent change in the family, e.g. death, divorce, a move, or a new baby.
• If they have expressed feeling depressed or anxious regularly.
• If they struggle with aggression and poor emotional regulation.

Counseling can also be beneficial if your child has autism or ADHD. If your child has ever experienced a chronic or extended health issue, they will benefit from counseling.

Do your research.

Finding the right counselor for your child may take a few tries. Your child’s age, maturity, and gender will all factor into your decision. Some kids may benefit from play therapy. Others will do well in a one-on-one conversation.

Have conversations with your child about what they may want from a counselor. If you go to counseling, mention it in passing, making it a natural part of life. Schools and doctors may have recommendations for you to consider.

Manage your expectations.

As a parent, you may expect certain results from counseling. It is important to let your child guide their experience with the counselor. Your child probably won’t give you a lot of information about what happened, and you should not press too much. The counselor will decide what needs to be communicated to you, and what can remain confidential.

Foster trust and teamwork.

If your child is in counseling, you need to consider the counselor your teammate. Don’t cast doubt on the counselor in conversations with your child. If you have concerns bring them up privately with the counselor.

Your child is being supported by a caring professional, they want to work with you, so be open to feedback that might come from the counselor. You are still the parent, but you do not have to carry the burdens and concerns alone. The counselor is there as a support to you and your child. Keep doors of communication open between everyone.

If you have chosen to find counseling for your child, recognize that you are giving them a tool and resource that will be helpful no matter where they go. Inviting others to support your child will strengthen their ability to build community. Surrounding your child with wise adults will provide them is an amazing gift.

Call today!

If you’re looking for a Christian counselor in Keller, Texas who works with children, teens, and families, we invite you to contact us today. Call our office to find the best option for you and your child.