Understanding Youth Counseling

At Turning Point Center for Change, we know that signing your child up for therapy can be scary for you as a parent, too. We want you to know that enrolling your child or teen in counseling is not a failure on your part as a parent or guardian. It’s completely natural for children and teens to have emotional struggles as they navigate through life. Sometimes, you can help them navigate those struggles. Sometimes, the best way to help them through it is to help them establish a therapeutic relationship with a mental health professional, and it definitely doesn’t mean that you’re not doing enough as a parent. In fact, getting a counselor or therapist involved can often be the most effective way to help your child with their struggles.

Why is Counseling Important for Young People?

Adults aren’t the only ones who can benefit from mental health and wellness care! Teens and children often face very similar emotional struggles as adults do. They may not have the vocabulary or life experience necessary to understand or articulate what they are going through. This lack of ability to communicate can leave them feeling lost, confused, or alone. Counseling and therapy for kids can make a huge difference! 

Emotional Support

Counseling offers a non-judgmental environment where young people can freely express their emotions.

Skills Development

Therapy helps in developing crucial coping skills and problem-solving abilities.

Early Intervention

Addressing mental health concerns early can prevent more serious issues in adulthood.

Academic Performance and Pressure

Counseling can improve focus and motivation, leading to better academic outcomes.

Family Dynamics

Therapy can help improve communication and relationships within the family.

What Can Youth Counselors Help With?

The following is a list of some of the most common mental health issues that youth counselors can help address. The list below is not exhaustive, so if your child is struggling with something not on the list, please give our office a call:

– Anxiety and depression

– Bullying and peer pressure

– Family conflicts

– Academic stress

– Self-esteem issues

– Behavioral problems

– Trauma and grief

– Substance abuse

– Identity and sexuality concerns

Will a Therapist Tell Me What My Child Talks About in Therapy?

Whether or not your child’s counselor or therapist will disclose information to you will vary greatly based on the laws and regulations where you live. In the state of Idaho, parents are entitled to access their minor child’s medical records, including their mental health records. Additionally, counselors and therapists are also mandatory reporters, meaning that they have to disclose any time that they believe a patient or client poses a serious risk to themselves or others.

We encourage parents to ask questions about their child’s progress and be involved in their child’s care. We also encourage parents to give their children privacy when it is appropriate. A lack of privacy can lead to a lack of trust from the child, toward both the therapist and the parents. This can make it considerably harder for the child to make positive progress in their mental health. Turning Point Center for Change will disclose information to parents upon request as required by Idaho state law. 

How Children’s Therapy Works

Common Types of Kid’s Counseling and Therapy

Individual Counseling for Kids

Individual counseling involves one-on-one sessions between the young person and a trained therapist. This format allows for personalized attention and tailored strategies to address specific concerns.

Family Therapy

Family therapy involves sessions with family members to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and create a more supportive home environment. It’s particularly useful when family dynamics contribute to a child’s or teenager’s struggles.

Children’s Group Counseling

Group counseling brings together young people facing similar challenges. It provides peer support and helps participants realize they’re not alone in their experiences.

Play Therapy

Primarily used with younger children, play therapy uses games and creative activities to help children express their feelings and work through issues in a way that’s natural to them.

Art Therapy

Art therapy uses creative expression to help young people communicate emotions and experiences that may be difficult to verbalize.

How Can I Support My Child in Therapy?

1. Understand the importance of early intervention

Early counseling intervention can:

– Prevent minor issues from escalating

– Promote healthy emotional development

– Improve academic and social functioning

– Build resilience for future challenges

2. Maintain open communication

Let your child know that you are open to talking with them about what they are going through, even if you can’t necessarily relate to them. Having a strong support system and feeling that they are loved unconditionally can make an enormous difference in a child’s mental health journey.

3. Respect your child’s privacy

We encourage parents to take an active role in their child’s mental healthcare and to also understand the importance of privacy in a therapeutic relationship. Broken trust can be extremely difficult to mend, and if a child feels they can not “be real” with their counselor, there’s a good chance they will not make real progress.

4. Reinforce positive coping strategies at home

Ask your child’s counselor how you can help reinforce positive coping strategies at home and support your child’s mental wellness. You can also ask your child directly if there is anything you can do to help them and let them know that you’re a safe space for them.

5. Set an example by seeking your own support if needed

One of the best ways to encourage your child to attend therapy is to seek mental health support for yourself, if necessary! People from all walks of life can benefit from counseling from time to time.

 

Children’s Therapy in Twin Falls, Idaho

We said it before, and we’ll say it again—seeking mental health care for your child or teen does not mean that you’ve failed them! For many kids, getting established with a mental health provider can be one of the best things you can do for them. Supporting your child’s health goes beyond taking them to the doctor when they have a cold or flu. Mental healthcare is just as important as physical health. 

Turning Point Center for Change has therapists for children and teenagers in Twin Falls, Idaho. We also offer an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for teenagers. Get in touch with us online or give the office a call to schedule an appointment or to learn more.