We parents often say that we know our children very well, when they are sad, anxious about something, or excited for some reason. However, there are certain situations in which children withdraw, and not even the most observant mother or father can figure out what is wrong. This can last for a long period and lead to even bigger problems if not addressed as soon as possible, and that’s what child therapy is for: to help solve children’s “internal” problems.

A school friend is rejecting them, the teacher doesn’t treat them with the same affection as the other students, the mother is working too much and the child misses her, or the loss of a loved one has brought endless sadness to the child. These are some of the recurring reasons for seeking child therapy, which to many parents may seem trivial and something that will just resolve over time. But time and “parental therapy” do not always solve the issue or make the painful, disturbing feelings go away, or even help process the situation.

Of course, there are children who are better able to handle their feelings and, with a good explanatory conversation, can understand and resolve what is bothering or hurting them so much. But there are also those who cannot express themselves or process certain situations, let alone explain what is happening—in fact, sometimes even they do not understand the feeling that hurts them so much or why it exists. These are situations that mark the unconscious and can affect their behavior at home, at school, and in some cases even their physical health.

The aim of child therapy is to resolve children’s internal conflicts so that they do not carry over into adulthood. Through playful activities, the child can express their deepest and most intense feelings and fears. With support from the parents working together with the therapy, the chances of the child suffering from the same problems in adolescence or adulthood are almost zero—provided, of course, that treatment is started as soon as the first signs that something is wrong appear. That is why early treatment makes all the difference in the results of therapy.

Main Signs Indicating Child Therapy Referral

Of course, not every childhood cry or drama is an indication for child therapy. Each case should be evaluated, and the child’s behavior observed—usually the teacher herself notices different signs and calls the parents in to discuss the child’s current behavior at school. Or at home, you might notice your child is quieter, more sensitive, or even more aggressive and refuses to talk about what they are feeling. Children with intense crying spells, even refusing to do activities they used to enjoy—such as going to school—may have something wrong happening. Difficulty learning in school as well as aggressive behavior with peers, refusing to be near a particular person, or showing fear of someone are signs that should be closely evaluated.

Other signs that something is wrong include the child regressing and starting to wet the bed, having constant nightmares, and showing a strong need to be near the parents, including repeatedly asking to sleep with them after being used to sleeping alone in their own bed or room. Children exhibiting excessive anxiety, irritability, and abnormal restlessness are reflecting on the outside what they feel within, and therefore need help.

With all the preparation and vocation that a child therapist has, it is possible to create a welcoming environment where the child feels safe to play and do the activities without worry. They will be evaluated without even realizing it and the needed information will be gently gathered, without pressure or demands. Child therapists have a special way of working with children—with their skills, they are able to direct the conversation and thereby find the root of the problem, and guide the parents through the process and necessary treatment to help their child.

See Also: Pediatric Speech Therapy – When to Seek Help?

Photos: Paula Ferrari, Tiago Celestino