Children and Teens Therapy in Calgary
When we are young, we lack the refined emotional tools and learnings that we gain later in life. This makes kids and teenagers particularly prone to issues regarding their mental health and well-being.
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Here at Flourish Psychological Services’ Douglasdale clinic in Calgary, we provide specialized therapy services for children and teenagers. Our dedicated team of experienced therapists is here to support young individuals and their families on their journey towards emotional well-being and personal growth. We understand the unique challenges that children and teens face in today's world, and we are committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment where they can flourish.
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So, whether your child is struggling with anxiety, adjusting to life changes, or you are seeking help with parent-teen conflicts, our child therapists and teenage therapists are here to assist all Calgarians. Discover the benefits of children and teen therapy and find the right support for your family.
Children's Therapy
If your child is having difficulty with anxieties, sensitivities, or struggles to adjust to life changes, our therapists are here to help. At Flourish, our team of registered psychologists in Calgary is guided by principles of attachment and development – and we believe that addressing these underlying factors is essential for children to thrive.
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We offer specialized child therapy services, including play therapy, which allows children to express themselves and explore their emotions in a safe and supportive environment. Additionally, we provide parent support and coaching to equip parents with effective strategies for improving their child's well-being. So if you’ve tried other resources without much luck, we’d be happy to chat on an introductory call.
Teenager Therapy
Wondering how to get therapy as a teenager? We don’t blame you. Navigating adolescence is always a challenging time – both for teenagers going through it, and their parents observing from the outside.
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Our teenage therapists are here to assist young people in finding healthier ways to express themselves, develop their identity, and navigate the complexities of this turbulent part of life. We approach this with plenty of consideration of the influence of family dynamics, peer groups, and youth sub-culture on teenagers' lives. As a result, our teen therapy sessions provide a calming and supportive space for teenagers to be heard, validated, and empowered to make positive choices.
Benefits of Children and Teen Therapy
There are plenty of benefits that children and teen therapy can offer:
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These sessions provide a safe and non-judgmental space for young individuals to express their thoughts, emotions, and concerns.
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Through the therapeutic process, children and teenagers gain a deeper understanding of themselves and others, fostering empathy and acceptance.
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Youth often improve their communication skills, helping to enhance relationships and promote healthier interactions within the family and beyond.
Finding the Right Therapist for Kids
A good therapy environment for children and teenagers can be an essential part of their well-being and emotional growth. In order to achieve that, it’s vital to build a real connection to the right therapist, establishing trust and rapport. This starts with the initial consultation call and continues in everything that comes afterward.
Our therapists are fully committed to the clients we take on, and we work collaboratively with children, teens, and their families to achieve the best possible outcomes. With our mutual investment in your child's progress, we foster a therapeutic environment that is safe, comfortable, and inclusive for all.
The Goals of Therapy for Kids and Teens
The goals of children and teen therapy vary based on the unique needs of each individual.
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On a general basis, therapy aims to support young people in developing effective coping strategies, managing emotions, and building resilience. It focuses on promoting self-awareness, enhancing self-esteem, and fostering personal growth.
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More specifically, therapy also addresses specific concerns that are more unique to each person. This can include conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, and behavioral issues, as well as family or interpersonal conflict resolution. Ultimately, the goal of this therapy is to provide children and teens with the tools they will need to thrive and overcome challenges throughout their lives.
Scheduling a Therapy Session for a Child or Teen
Even if you’ve never booked a kids’ therapy session for your child before, scheduling one is a simple process.
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Simply use our online appointment form to book a free introductory call, during which we can discuss your concerns, find out what you are looking for, and establish how we can best help you or your child.
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We understand the busy schedules of families, and that it’s not always possible to get here in person. Should you proceed to a full 60- or 90-minute session, we are happy to provide the flexibility of virtual sessions if needed, too.
Children & Teenager Counselling FAQs
What types of psychological services are available for children and teens?
Services for children and teens differ widely from that which is offered to adults. Depending on age, play therapy may be appropriate for the youngest children who are still working on finding their voice. Teenagers usually need an extra, kind and supportive listener who is non-judgemental and willing to think”outside the box” with them. Both children and teens are attached to their family systems so it is important that they are seen as connected and treated within their family system.
How do I know if my child needs psychological services?
You know your child best. If you notice that your child is struggling, either with their emotions, behavior, or relationships, it may be time to reach out to external support. Signs that a child may benefit from therapy include sadness or anxiety that is not better explained by day to day events, difficulty sleeping or eating, frequent tantrums or outbursts, and a rapid decline or acceleration in academic or social functioning.
Will my child be able to participate in the therapy process?
This depends! All therapy is meant to be client-centered, so your therapist will work to be interactive and engaging for children and teens. Therapists use a variety of techniques, such as play therapy and art therapy, to help young clients express themselves and work through their feelings in a safe and supportive environment.
How long will my child need to attend therapy?
The length of therapy varies depending on the individual needs of each individual and their respective family situation. Some children may only need a few sessions to work through a specific issue, while others may benefit from ongoing therapy over a period of several months or even years.
How can I support my child's mental health outside of therapy?
There are several ways that parents can support their child's mental health outside of therapy, including practicing good self-care, encouraging healthy lifestyle habits, fostering positive relationships, and seeking support from other parents or professionals when needed. In fact, the happiest children resist in the homes of the happiest adults, so it is critical that you take care of your own stressors to be able to guide your little through their hard times.
How can therapy benefit my child or teenager?
Therapy can provide valuable support for children and teenagers by helping them develop coping skills, improve communication, manage emotions, and address specific concerns. It offers a safe and non-judgmental space for self-expression and fosters personal growth.
How often do therapy sessions typically occur?
The frequency of therapy sessions depends on the individual needs and goals of your child or teenager. Sessions can range from weekly to bi-weekly or as determined in collaboration with the therapist.
Is therapy confidential?
Yes, therapy is confidential within the limits defined by law. However, therapists may have a duty to report if there are concerns about the safety and well-being of the child or teenager or others.