Does My Child Need Counseling?

Many parents struggle with whether their child needs counseling. While they may be facing challenges at home, it can be difficult to recognize what is simply typical child behavior and what things are more than that.

For example, if your child is struggling in school, does that mean he or she needs counseling or is it simply an issue regarding academics? Similarly, if your toddler is typically independent and now seems to demand all your attention, is it a phase or does it indicate a bigger issue?

These questions can be hard to navigate. Add in the feelings that accompany seeking counseling, dealing with any silent stigma about counseling, and not wanting to think that your child could have something difficult going on, and the decision about counseling can feel paralyzing.

The most important thing to know

Counseling can help. Whether your child is simply in a phase, or he or she is dealing with something more complex, counseling can help. It isn’t a cure, but it can help you and your child navigate whatever they are going through.

You can seek help from a counselor even if you don’t know exactly what the problem is or how serious it is. It is similar to how you would seek help from a doctor for your child’s sore ankle about which you’re unsure. The doctor can help you determine what your child needs just like a counselor can help do the same.

Signs your child might need counseling

While there are no specific things to indicate counseling is needed, there are things you can look for. Certain behaviors can indicate that your child may be struggling with something and they could benefit from counseling.

Behaviors to look for are:

• No longer enjoying hobbies they once liked.
• Change in attitude that lasts a few days.
• Academic changes.
• Behavioral problems at school.
• Drastic changes in friendships.
• Bed-wetting that was not a previous problem.
• Difficulty separating from you or other caregivers.
• Reverting to younger behavior.
• Changes in eating habits.
• Sleeping too much or too little.
• Frequent complaints of headache, stomachache, or other ailments.
• Frequent visits to the school nurse.

These are just some examples. You know your child. If you are unsure a counselor can help you figure out how to help your child.

Always seek help for certain problems

All behaviors should be taken seriously. Even if they seem insignificant, they could be significant in your child’s life.

Some behaviors should always be taken seriously. Even if these things are explained away by the child or another adult, for your child’s safety, you should always seek help from a counselor and physician for problems such as:

• Frequent talk about death.
• Unexplained scars, cuts, or injuries.
• Unexpected weight loss.
• Talk of suicide.
• Signs of abuse.
• Sexual promiscuity or unusual exploration.

While these may not indicate a problem, it is essential to ensure your child’s safety. That is why you need to take any of these problems seriously and seek help from professionals.

There is support for you

These are not easy things to navigate. As a parent, it can feel lonely, isolating, and emotionally trying to consider any struggles your child may experience. A counselor can help you process these feelings and determine the best way to move forward for you and your child.

Contact the office to get more information about how a counselor can support you and your child.