5 Signs Your Child May Benefit From Child Therapy in Severna Park, MD
You have a feeling that something is going on with your kiddo. You've noticed that some things seem to be off with the way they're acting. For some parents, this is the first time they've been worried about their child’s behavior. For other parents, this isn't their first rodeo. Still, noticing these behaviors is very important. Our child therapists have worked with many parents to navigate this concern. From their experience, here are some common signs your child may benefit from child therapy.
Changes in your child's mood and behavior
The way your child is acting doesn't make sense. They are behaving different, not how they usually do. Sometimes it is a small difference and less noticeable. Other times, it sticks out like a sore thumb. You are often asking yourself, why is my child doing this? Why are they behaving this way? Besides changes in their behavior, you are also noticing changes in their mood. To say that your child is in a bad mood doesn't quite describe it. Rather, you can tell that your child is struggling with something. You are not sure if the difference in their mood is temporary or something that requires the attention of a child therapist. You can't quite put your finger on it, but it is clear that your child is dealing with something under the surface. And, you see the change in your child's behaviors and mood. You feel a little worried.
Trouble following a daily routine
Sometimes, it feels like your child has developed an aversion to routine. You've tried a thousand different things. You've tried to find ways to pique their interest and keep them motivated. Maybe you’ve tried incentives, leverage, and anything else in your parenting toolbox. But, it seems like nothing works. On top of motivating them, it is clear that your child is struggling to stick with it. You are doing your best to help them be successful. But, unfortunately, it feels like nothing is working.
Not engaging with friends
For your child, this behavior is uncharacteristic. Your child usually looks forward to spending time with friends and getting out of the house. But, that doesn't seem to be happening lately. Your child no longer expresses interest in spending time with friends in the way they used to. The time they do spend time with friends looks much different than it used to. Sure, they are physically present. But, they are not interacting in the same way that they used to. And sometimes, it seems like they avoid friends all costs. You might not be sure of the reason. Yet, you know that this isn't typical for your child.
Less interested in their interests
Recently, you may find yourself thinking two ways about your child’s interests. On one hand, it feels normal for them to lose interest in some hobbies as they grow up. On the other hand, their recent lack of interest in some activities feels abrupt. Especially when it is hobbies that they used to love. Again, you have a feeling that something is not going right.
Problems focusing and learning in school
Your child is struggling. So much so that the school has contacted you. You've done your best to set them up for academic success. And, you've tried to be as supportive as possible to them. You've been intentional to help your child craft their learning experiences with their interests and strengths. And yet, they are still struggling to be successful in school. You've given them all the tools and resources they need. However, it seems like there's a missing piece. It seems like your child is learning less in school than their peers. And this worries you.
As a parent, these concerns make sense
If any of the above concerns hit home, it could be time to consider child therapy. We know this may sound like a big step. However, it's often the big steps that help the most.
Our child therapists have worked with a variety of parents and children through child therapy. They have heard many types of concerns. And, they are here to help. Our therapists have provided child and family therapy in Severna Park, MD for many years and helped hundreds of families. They have helped kids navigate a variety of experiences. They take time to get to know each child and family to tailor therapy to your child’s needs. All this, with the goal to provide effective tools and solutions for your child and family.
Begin Child Therapy in Maryland
Starting therapy can come with a lot of questions. Our caring therapists would be honored to support you in finding answers. You are the expert on your child. Truly, you know them better than anyone else in the world. And right now, you are concerned. We encourage you to trust your instinct as a parent or guardian and begin the process of finding your child and family the support you need to make this a little bit easier. Whether your child is needing anxiety treatment, struggling to manage a chronic illness, was recently diagnosed with ADHD or has experienced something traumatic; our child therapists are here and know how to support both you and your child!
We offer child therapy from our Severna Park, MD-based therapy practice. To start your therapy journey, follow these simple steps:
Meet with a trained child and family therapist
Start receiving the support your child deserves
Other Services Offered At Thinking Tree Psychology
Our mental health professionals offer services to support the entire family. Maybe you are looking for therapy for one of your children now, but our psychologists understand that multiple members of your family may be struggling in their own way. Our Severna Park, MD-based psychotherapy practice offers a variety of mental health services. Other services provided include family therapy, anxiety treatment, therapy for chronic illness, and pain management. Feel free to visit our FAQ page for additional questions, or our therapy overview page.