Children often struggle with “normal” childhood fears and anxieties. Behavioral conflicts are common and healthy between parents and children. So how do parents know when it is appropriate to seek professional help?

Counseling may be indicated if a child experiences a sudden change in behavior or mood. Other indicators include persistent behavior problems at home or school, decreased interest or enthusiasm in play or activities, or changes in sleeping or eating patterns.

Frequently, children are unable to articulate worries or fears and, instead, act them out through their behavior. Parents may observe children becoming aggressive and oppositional, or withdrawing from friends and family. If you observe these behaviors and are having difficulty resolving them within your family, you may want to seek help from a professional to assess the situation and recommend appropriate options. These options may include individual therapy for the child and/or family therapy.

Play Therapy
For younger children, talking therapy is often difficult. Children often express themselves most easily in play. It is through play that children often reveal their view of the world, their attitudes, fantasies and concerns. Through the use of play materials, children can create their own definition of a problem.

Working with the therapist, children use play therapy to express themselves and better understand and cope with fears, trauma and worries. The therapist helps the child identify and clarify their concerns, find words to express their feelings and use more healthy ways to deal with conflicts.

In all cases, the therapist works closely with parents, caregivers, teachers and physicians. The goal is to work together to help children experience childhood at its best…playing, learning and growing to their fullest potential.