Consider counseling if your child shows significant changes in behavior, mood, or functioning that last more than a few weeks. This might include: persistent sadness or irritability, withdrawal from activities they used to enjoy, significant changes in eating or sleeping patterns, declining school performance, excessive worry or fear, behavior problems at school or home, or talking about self-harm. Trust your instincts—if you're concerned, it's worth seeking professional advice.

Confidentiality is important for building trust with young clients. For teenagers, sessions are generally confidential, similar to adult counseling, with exceptions for safety concerns. For younger children, I typically share general themes and progress with parents while keeping specific conversations private. We'll discuss confidentiality guidelines during our initial parent consultation and establish what information sharing works best for your family.

The duration varies based on the child's age, issues, and goals. Many children show improvement within 6-8 sessions. Some concerns may require 12-15 sessions, while others might benefit from longer-term support. We regularly assess progress and adjust the treatment plan accordingly. The goal is to provide effective support while also teaching skills that children and families can use independently.

It's common for children, especially teens, to be hesitant about counseling. We work to make the experience comfortable and engaging. For reluctant children, we might start with shorter sessions, incorporate their interests, or use creative approaches. Sometimes meeting with parents first to develop strategies can help. The goal is to create a positive experience where children feel heard and understood, not forced.