How do I find a therapist for my child? By Jaclyn Clarke, MA, LPC Director of Play Therapy

How do I find a therapist for my child?

By Jaclyn Clarke, MA, LPC Director of Play Therapy

Finding a therapist for your child begins with understanding your child’s mental health challenges, their personality, and an understanding of what type of therapy would best address their needs while allowing them to feel comfortable.

Oftentimes, beginning the conversation with your child’s pediatrician, or your insurance provider, or searching through online networks can offer options for mental health providers in your area.

Next, consider your child’s current challenges and mental health symptoms. They may be experiencing anxiety, depression, family conflict, ADHD, stress, relational issues, OCD, trauma, or grief/loss.

Keep in mind your child’s personality type. If they prefer to engage in movement, games/activities, art, or reading books provide them with an environment that has materials to support their choice of processing. Have an understanding of the different types of youth-focused therapies such as Non-Directed Child-centered Play Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), Narrative Therapy, Relational Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions). Parents, by no means, have to be an expert on these approaches to therapy, but this legwork will help you find a therapist that can set your child up for success and may save you time in the long run.

Lastly, it is important for your child’s progress that you are an active part of their therapy process. Meeting with your child’s therapist on an as-needed basis will ensure concerns are being addressed as they happen and maintain progress towards your child’s treatment plan goals. Discuss additional options for support with your child’s therapist such as parent workshop opportunities or support group.

We are happy to help you navigate this and any other questions you may have. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.

To learn more about AMK’s behavioral therapy programs and team members visit us,
You can also click here schedule an intake appointment with an ERP specialist, or contact intakes@amkcounseling.com or call 773-413-9523