What Is Children and Teen Therapy?

Therapy for children and teenagers is designed to support their emotional well-being, build resilience, and enhance their relationships. It can offer a healthy pathway as they grow to navigate the changes in their minds and bodies.  Young people experience a wide range of emotions and challenges that can sometimes feel overwhelming. Here are examples of situations where you should consider therapy for your child.

Anxiety and Depression

Common challenges we see in children and teens include anxiety, perfectionism, and depression. These stem from root causes like the model minority myth, for example, which can place immense pressure on young individuals to meet unrealistic expectations. Online or in-person bullying, and trauma from difficult life events like parental strife or the loss of a loved one can impact their mental well-being. Therapy can provide them with the professional support they need to unpack their feelings, process their experiences and build resilience.

The model minority myth, for example, can place immense pressure on young individuals to meet unrealistic expectations. Therapy provides a space to unpack these pressures,

Self-esteem and Self Worth

The impact of excessive screen time and social media has become a chronic problem in many families. Known to impact self-esteem, mood and relationships, many teens succumb to struggles with their body image, eating disorders, depression and more. Therapy can help them explore a healthy identity for themselves, and develop their self-confidence.

Family and Social Connections

Some children and teens have difficulty forming and maintaining friendships, which then leads to social isolation. Sometimes, family dynamics and cultural expectations can become a source of stress and conflict. Our therapists work with young clients to identify and process their emotions and develop the skills to manage them. Communicating their needs constructively can help them strengthen family connections and navigate complex dynamics productively.

Neurodiversity and Learning Challenges

Therapy can help identify neurodivergent issues related to learning and attention span. We ensure your child receives the assessments, accommodations, and any specific academic resources they may require. Your therapist will collaborate with school counsellors, educators, and other professionals to ensure your teen receives the right help to succeed academically and socially. Therapy can help them build confidence, improve their emotional regulation and feel more connected to themselves and others.

What to Expect with Therapy for Children

Therapy for children is uniquely designed to meet them where they are developmentally. Depending on their age, personality, and specific challenges, sessions may involve play therapy, art therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy and/or family therapy. Young children do not understand or recognize their emotions. They may not yet have the words to describe what they need. Therapy helps them to express their feelings and needs in ways that feel natural and safe.

Therapy for younger children incorporates play and creative expression to help them communicate their feelings. Art, storytelling, and imaginative play are powerful tools that help children work through fears, anxieties, and behavioural challenges. 

Therapy for Teenagers

For teenagers, therapy is more discussion-based but could still include creative and interactive elements to engage them in the process. We engage them in meaningful conversations about their emotions, personal struggles, and the complexities of their relationships. 

Peer groups play an important role in teenage life from ages 12 to 25. Therapy is where they can explore their social life, social pressures, and identity formation. Having a judgment-free forum to discuss challenges related to peer dynamics, self-esteem, bullying, and stress can help them become confident with their emotions and decisions.

Parents play an essential role in therapy for teenagers. With the teen’s permission, therapists can involve parents to navigate family dynamics and strengthen communication. Adolescence is a time of great transition, often bringing tension and conflict between parents and teens. Therapy can help facilitate open dialogue, address misunderstandings, and provide strategies for reducing conflict while fostering stronger bonding.

What If My Child or Teen Doesn’t Want Therapy?

Your child or teen may not be comfortable seeing a therapist, and you may face resistance in the beginning. Our team can work with you to help them feel comfortable and engaged in the therapeutic process. We build trust and create a safe, non-judgmental environment where they can feel seen and heard.

Research has shown that parents who seek therapeutic support can have a positive impact on their child’s well-being. Parenting support can offer insights, tools, and strategies to help navigate the challenges your teenager is facing, often leading to positive changes in their mental health and behaviour.

Book a Consultation

We recognize the unique challenges faced by children and teens, particularly those from diverse cultural backgrounds. Our therapists are experienced and trained in the latest evidence-based approaches and can help your child develop a strong emotional foundation for themselves to succeed in life. We offer a free 20-minute consultation to discuss your concerns and explore how therapy can support your child’s well-being. Our goal is to make it a positive and empowering experience for both your child and your family.