Does My Child Need Counseling?

Parents and caregivers often ask how to know if their child could benefit from counseling and are unsure if misbehavior, emotional outbursts, or anxious behaviors are phases that they will “grow out of.” It is true that each individual child develops different capabilities to process feelings throughout their lifetime, and this does play a large role in determining if the behavior is a problem or just a stage. However, there are some clear indicators that I look for to determine whether or not there is a potential mental health concern and/or a need for support or professional intervention.

1. Length of time

If the behavior has been occurring consistently (daily/weekly), this could be an indicator that intervention is needed, especially if it spans 3+ months.

2. Consistency across settings

If the behavior is reported at home, at school, in aftercare, and after school activities it is more likely that intervention may be needed and less likely to be situational.

3. Impact

What is the impact of this behavior on the child’s overall functioning? (Academics, friendships, learning) How much does it impair them and how significant is it?

I would also consider the impact on the entire family (financial, constantly taking days off work to get child from school, reputation, exhausted/no energy, kicked out of multiple daycares, safety of self/others).

4. Self-Image of Child

If the child expresses they can’t control their behaviors/feelings, frustrated with themselves, and/or not responding to rewards or incentives then it is likely that it is not a stage and could require intervention. If the child is consistently being punished and there is an undetected mental health concern and/or clinical diagnosis, this may lead them to just believe they are “bad” and that can potentially be detrimental to their growth.

5. Presence of Significant Life Stressors

New or ongoing life-stressors can also impact a child’s functioning. Young children often do not have the vocabulary to express feelings about the stressor, and it may present as anxiety or misbehavior. Older children may withdraw or refuse to comply with directives. Life stressors such as divorce, loss of a loved one, or difficulty at school may require intervention from a counselor to help teach appropriate methods to cope.

All of these factors should, of course, be taken into consideration within the context of the child’s age, and typically more than one indicator is present. The bottom line is that counseling is designed for you and your child, and inquiring further does not necessarily require an on-going commitment to intense therapy. Parenting is hard work, and just taking a small step to have more support and information may provide the relief you are seeking.

Are you interested in finding out if your child could benefit from counseling services?

If your child is struggling, I am here to support your family! Reach out to me by clicking here to send me a message or at (813) 679-9860.

Andrea Wilson, LMHC