What Is Therapy?
Lots of kids have problems that affect how they feel, think, or act. Therapy is
a way to get help with these problems. If you go to therapy, you'll meet with a therapist
to talk and learn. Therapy helps kids learn to cope better, communicate better, and
do better.
If you're dealing with a problem, your parent or doctor might suggest you go to
a therapist. Or it might be your idea. You might be the one to ask your parent to
take you to a therapist.
What Problems Do Therapists Help With?
Therapists are trained to help kids with all kinds of problems. They help kids
going through tough times like:
They help kids with feelings like:
They help kids with conditions like:
- ADHD
- depression
- OCD and anxiety
- disruptive behavior disorders
- trauma-related disorders
Why Do Kids Need Therapy?
Kids need therapy when they have problems they can't cope with alone. Therapy helps
them talk about their feelings and learn new skills. It helps them work out their
problems. As this happens, kids start to try new skills and do better.
How Does Therapy Work?
In therapy, kids learn by talking and doing. Therapists do activities with kids
that teach skills. Kids learn to use these skills to solve problems. A therapist gives
praise and support as kids learn. This helps kids do their best and feel proud of
the work they are doing.
What Happens in Therapy?
At first, your therapist will talk with you and your parent. Therapists ask questions
and listen. This helps them learn more about you. The therapist will tell you how
they can help.
When the therapist knows you better, the two of you might:
- Talk. Talking is a healthy way to express feelings. Kids are
more ready to learn when someone listens to how they feel.
- Play and draw. Therapists use games that teach things like taking
your time on schoolwork or other tasks. Some games teach kids how to try again instead
of giving up. Drawing can teach about feelings.
- Do activities. Therapists might teach lessons about feelings,
coping skills, or facing fears. Activities help make these lessons more fun.
- Practice new skills. A therapist might teach you skills like
mindfulness and calm breathing. These take practice. Therapists help you practice
what you're learning.
- Solve problems. Your therapist will ask about how problems affect
you at home and at school. They will talk with you about how to solve these problems.
How Long Do Kids Do Therapy?
How long therapy lasts depends on your problem and what you need. Most of the time,
a therapist will want to meet with you once a week for a few months.
How Can I Help Myself?
If you're going to a therapist, here are some ways to help yourself too:
- Be ready to grow. Tell yourself "I can" instead of "I can't."
This helps you do your best.
- Ask your family for help when you need it. Share how you feel.
This helps you feel close.
- Do things you are good at and enjoy. This gives you confidence.
- Know your good qualities. Maybe you are funny, creative, helpful,
or kind. Use at least one of these every day. This helps you be your best self.
- Find time to play and have fun. Being
active every day helps you feel happier and ready to learn.
Date reviewed: February 2018