Therapist Blog

assessing

Assessing Whether Your Teen/Child Needs Help

As parents there are a ton of things to consider/worry about. If you think your child may be in a position that they can benefit from therapy, here are some questions to ask yourself to help clarify.

  • What is your child telling you through their behaviors?

  • What physical symptoms has your child been experiencing?

  • What are you worried about for your child?

  • Are you as the parent experiencing anything that could be indirectly affecting your children?

Remember your children don’t have the same language adults have when it comes to explaining whats going on with them, ask them about their feelings. Again, emotional and mental issues often show up somatically, through physical pain, nausea, dizziness, sleep changes.

Your children are sponges, yes you may not be verbally sharing your stresses with them, yet your children are quite perspectives to their environment and the people in it.

Respond with Acceptance

Move Away from Blame

Blaming yourself, your child or others will most likely lead to anger and resentment

Start the Conversation

In a calm and clear way communicate your concern

Reach out for Support

Assemble a support system for yourself and your teen, whether that’s family, friends and/or a treatment team.