Watching your child struggle is hard. Maybe they have been more worried than usual, their mood has shifted, or school has become a daily battle. Wanting to get them support is a caring and thoughtful step.
We put this guide together to show you how to find a child therapist with confidence, from spotting important signs to asking the right questions.
It helps to start with what you are seeing at home and school.
How Do I Know If My Child Needs a Therapist?
All kids have hard days, bursts of worry, and moments of acting out. More pronounced symptoms that last a while, and get in the way of school, home life, or recreational activities are cause for concern. NIMH suggests paying attention to changes that last weeks or months and affect daily life.
Signs a child may benefit from talking to a therapist include the following.
- Worry or fear that seems out of proportion or keeps them from activities they used to enjoy
- Sadness, irritability, or hopelessness that does not seem to lift
- Big changes in sleep, eating, or energy
- Frequent tantrums, aggression, or trouble following rules
- Pulling away from friends or family
- A sudden drop in grades or trouble focusing
- Difficulty coping after a loss, a move, a divorce, or another big change
These concerns are common. In the U.S., about 8% of children ages 3 to 17 have a diagnosed behavior disorder, and nearly 12% have ADHD. Many kids with these and other concerns feel better with the right support, and getting help early tends to make a difference.
Once you decide to look for help, the next question is who to see.
What Kind of Therapist Should My Child See?
Many types of therapists work with children, and each brings different training. The most important thing is experience with kids your child’s age and with the concerns you are noticing.
- PhD or PsyD (Child Psychologist). Psychologists complete doctoral training in therapy and psychological assessment, and they can provide psychological testing when needed. What this means for your child and family: a psychologist may be a good fit if you want a clearer picture of what is going on, such as an evaluation for learning or attention concerns.
- LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker). Social workers train in therapy with a person-in-environment view, which means they consider how family, school, and community shape a child’s well-being. What this means for your child and family: your therapist may also help connect you with school or community resources.
- LPC or LPCC (Licensed Professional Counselor). Counselors complete master’s-level training with a practical, skills-based approach. What this means for your child and family: sessions often focus on concrete tools your child can practice, such as calming strategies or ways to handle frustration.
- LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist). Marriage and family therapists look at struggles through the lens of family relationships and patterns. What this means for your child and family: you may join some sessions, and the work may include how everyone at home communicates.
- Child and adolescent psychiatrist. These medical doctors can diagnose conditions and prescribe medication when it may help. What this means for your child and family: many families see a psychiatrist alongside a therapist.
Knowing the approach a therapist uses can also help you choose.
Curious what kind of therapist would be right for you?
We’ve helped over 500,000 find a therapist that fits for free.
What Types of Therapy Help Children?
Child therapists use a range of approaches, often adjusted to a child’s age and needs. A few of the most common are described below.
Behavior Therapy and Parent Training
Behavior therapy teaches children and families ways to encourage positive behavior. For young children with ADHD, parent training in behavior management is the recommended first choice for kids under 6. In this approach, the therapist coaches parents directly, since parents spend the most time with their child.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps kids notice the thoughts and feelings that drive their behavior and practice new ways to respond. CBT is often used for children dealing with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Older kids and teens usually do much of this work themselves, with parents involved along the way.
Play-Based Approaches for Younger Kids
Young children often express feelings more easily through play, drawing, or games than through talking. Many child therapists use play to build trust and help kids work through big emotions.
What Questions Should I Ask a Child Therapist?
Most therapists are happy to answer questions before you book. Here are some that parents often find helpful.
- How much experience do you have working with children whose behaviors are similar to my child’s?
- What approach do you use, and how will we know if it is working?
- How will parents or caregivers be involved in treatment?
- What will you share with me, and what stays between you and my child?
- Do you take our insurance or offer sliding-scale fees?
The answers you hear will help, but how your child feels with the therapist matters just as much.
How Do I Know If a Therapist Is a Good Fit for My Child?
The bond between your child and their therapist matters. A strong working relationship is linked with progress in therapy for children and teens. Kids who feel safe and understood are more likely to open up and engage.
It can take a few sessions for your child to warm up. If your child still seems uncomfortable after several visits, talk with the therapist about it. Switching to someone new is okay and does not mean therapy has failed.
When you are ready to start looking, there are several good places to begin.
Where Can I Find a Child Therapist?
A good first step is a full mental health evaluation for your child, and your pediatrician or family doctor can help you find someone to do it. Your child’s school counselor may also know local therapists who work with kids. If you have insurance, your plan’s directory can show which child therapists are in-network.
Online therapy is another option for many families. Among teens who received mental health care in the past year, nearly half received some care via telehealth. Some families find online sessions work well for older kids and teens and prefer in-person visits for younger children.
We created Mental Health Match to make this part easier, and it is free to use. You answer a few questions about your child’s needs, your preferences, schedule, and budget, and we introduce you to therapists who work with children and teens and are a strong fit. Most therapists on Mental Health Match offer a free consultation, so you can get a feel for them before your child’s first session.
| Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always talk to a qualified healthcare professional about any medical concerns. If you are in crisis, please call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. |
