As a parent, you want to do everything you can to protect your child from harm and ensure they grow up healthy and happy, childrens therapy San Diego, CA can help with that. You make sure they wear a bike helmet and knee pads, but if they take a tumble and break an arm, you immediately seek medical attention.
Some “boo-boos” aren’t as noticeable as a broken bone, but these emotional wounds hurt just as bad. If left untreated, these emotional injuries can result in further problems as your child grows. This is where therapy comes in.
“But isn’t my child too young for therapy?” you might be wondering. At Family Connections Therapy, we work with children from preschool through teenagers. Trauma and behavioral issues don’t have an age restriction and can affect a child at any age.
Signs that Childrens Therapy San Diego, CA Could Help
Instead of focusing on the age of the child, it’s better to address the particular problems they may be having. As a parent, you know your child best. While a friend or family doctor may tell you your child is just “going through a stage,” you may recognize that something seems… off or not right. Trust your instincts. With this in mind, some signs may indicate a problem requiring specialized attention. Your child:
- Is having trouble at school (grades, bullying others, talking back to teachers…)
- Is attempting to injure themselves
- Avoids family functions and ignores friends
- Experiences frequent mood swings and extreme emotions (anxiety, angry outbursts)
- Has difficulty concentrating
- Has difficulty sleeping
- Is eating far more or far less than before
This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it indicates some behaviors that may need addressing.
It is also important to mention that other things can be ruled out before you try therapy. For instance, has your child had a full medical work-up recently? An emotional disturbance could be the cause of their difficulties at school, OR they could be caused by poor eyesight. Their insomnia could be caused by anxiety, OR it could result from a biological issue causing them pain. Are you and your partner arguing more? Is your child’s behavior a natural response to an emotional situation at home?
Talk to Your Child About Therapy
While you may be worried your child is too young for therapy, your child may like talking to someone special about how they feel. And your child is taking cues from you on how to feel about things. Of course, if you feel therapy has a certain stigma, your child will feel shame and not want to explore this option. But if you see therapy as beneficial, chances are your child will also be open to trying it.
Once you decide to explore treatment options, look for a therapist who specializes in helping young children. They will most likely emphasize art and play therapy, allowing your child to express themselves in a way that is natural for them.
Be sure to ask as many questions as necessary to select a therapist you feel comfortable with, and speak openly with your child about treatment so they can know what to expect.
If you believe your child may benefit from therapy and want to discuss treatment options, please get in touch. We specialize in young children and would be more than happy to see how we may help.
Childrens Therapy Services San Diego, CA & More!
If you and your child are having trouble communicating, Family Connections Therapy is here for you! We can help you and your family develop the skills necessary to flourish and grow through family therapy. Follow these steps to get started:
- Call our office today at (858) 776-8804 to speak with us!
- Schedule either a family therapy appointment or Childrens Therapy San Diego, CA based on your needs.
- Start having a better relationship with your children!
Other Counseling Services
At our San Diego-based therapy practice we offer several options to support the mental health of you and your whole family. Our children’s therapy also includes therapy for ADHD, attachment and healthy development, play therapy, LGBTQIA+, and transgender therapy. Our Marriage and Family Therapists also offer family therapy, couples therapy, and marriage counseling. We offer individual therapy, depression treatment, anxiety treatment, and more. As well as family reunification therapy and court-ordered parenting classes. These services are also offered in person or to California residents through online therapy.
