Today's world creates unique challenges for children, and rates of anxiety, depression, and loneliness continue to rise. Our therapists have specialized training in providing individual counseling for children and adolescents with a wide range of emotional, behavioral, social, and academic concerns. We use strength-based, client-centered, evidence-based techniques to help young people develop healthy coping skills and build resilience.
Helping Children Navigate Life's Challenges
Does your child have trouble dealing with their emotions? Are they struggling socially? Are they showing behaviors that are disruptive or problematic? Are they coping with a chronic medical condition, or have they experienced a sudden loss or traumatic event?
If the answer to any of these questions is yes, your child could likely benefit from working with a therapist. Through counseling, children and adolescents can gain a better understanding of their emotions, improve communication skills, strengthen relationships, and develop practical strategies for managing life's challenges.
Types of Therapy Available for Children
Therapy provides children and adolescents with a safe, supportive space to express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. At our practice in Denver, we offer several evidence-based approaches to children’s therapy, including:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – CBT helps children identify unhelpful thought patterns and develop healthier ways of thinking and responding to difficult situations.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – ACT teaches children and adolescents how to accept difficult emotions while focusing on actions that align with their values and goals.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills Training – DBT skills training focuses on emotional regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness.
Play Therapy – Play therapy provides younger children with an age-appropriate way to express emotions, process experiences, and build problem-solving skills.
General Skills Training – Skills training can help children improve communication, emotional regulation, social skills, organization, and coping strategies.
Who Can Benefit from Therapy?
At every age, children and adolescents can face challenges that impact their emotional well-being, relationships, and success at school. Therapy may be beneficial for children experiencing:
Anxiety
Depression
Stress
ADHD
Executive functioning problems
Peer relationship difficulties
Emotional or behavioral concerns
Learning and academic challenges
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Difficult life transitions
Transitioning to a new school
Parental divorce or separation
Moving to a new home
Grief and loss
Adjustment to chronic medical conditions
What Parents Should Know About Therapy for Children
Choosing therapy for your child is an important decision, and it's natural to have questions about the process. Below are answers to some of the most common questions parents ask about counseling for children and adolescents, including what to expect, how therapy works, and when professional support may be beneficial.
Q: How do I know if my child's behavior is normal or something that requires professional help?
A: While occasional emotional or behavioral challenges are a normal part of development, children’s therapy may be helpful when symptoms are frequent, intense, interfere with daily functioning, or negatively impact school, family relationships, or friendships.
Q: What happens during children's therapy sessions?
A: Sessions are tailored to the child's age and needs. Depending on the situation, therapy may include conversation, skill-building activities, play therapy techniques, problem-solving exercises, and learning coping strategies.
Q: Will parents be involved in the therapy process?
A: Yes. Parent involvement is often an important part of successful treatment. While confidentiality is respected, therapists typically collaborate with parents to provide guidance, support, and strategies that can be used at home.
Q: How long does therapy take for children?
A: The length of therapy varies depending on the child's goals, challenges, and progress. Some children benefit from short-term counseling focused on a specific concern, while others may benefit from longer-term support.
Q: Can therapy for children help with school-related problems?
A: Yes. Therapy can help children and adolescents manage academic stress, anxiety, executive functioning difficulties, peer conflicts, school transitions, and other challenges that affect performance and well-being.
Q: What if my child doesn't want to attend therapy?
A: Many children are hesitant at first. Experienced child therapists work to build trust and create a comfortable environment where children feel safe expressing themselves. As rapport develops, many children become more engaged in the process.
Q: How is therapy different for children and adolescents than it is for adults?
A: Child and adolescent therapy is designed to be developmentally appropriate. Therapists use age-specific techniques and often incorporate parents into treatment to support progress outside of sessions.
Q: Can therapy for children improve family relationships?
A: Yes. As children develop healthier communication, coping, and emotional regulation skills, family relationships often improve. Parents may also receive guidance on supporting their child's growth and development.
Empowering Children to Thrive at Home, School, and Beyond
Therapy is not a quick fix to a child's behavioral or emotional challenges. Rather, it is a thoughtful and comprehensive process that helps children and adolescents develop insight, confidence, and lifelong coping skills. By learning how to understand and manage their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, young people can build a strong foundation for future success at home, in school, and in relationships.
Schedule a Child Therapy Appointment in Denver, CO
If your child or adolescent is struggling with emotional, behavioral, social, or academic challenges, professional support can make a meaningful difference. Our experienced therapists provide compassionate counseling for children and adolescents in Denver, CO, using evidence-based approaches tailored to each individual's needs. Contact us today to learn more about treatment options or schedule an appointment.