Deciding when to begin therapy is not easy. Trusting another person with your family’s stress and weaknesses is not something most people look forward to doing, but it can be a vital tool in implementing any change in your family’s routine.
That being said, therapy, and having to be held accountable to someone every week, can be very helpful when managing family dynamics. There is a reason most people are successful with weight loss by going to weekly meetings; they are checking in and having to discuss their weekly struggles. Therapy can be the Weight Watchers for parenting.
It is important to do your research. You need to find a therapist that will speak with schools and take extra time with you to work through any difficulties you face with your family. Finding a therapist you trust, relate to, and feel is qualified can be daunting, but is imperative when looking at initiating any change with your child’s emotional and behavioral needs.
When researching, look for a therapist that specializes in cognitive-behavioral therapy, as it is most recommended when working with anxiety and teaching child-based coping strategies. A therapist that specializes in this therapy, works with your child’s age group, incorporates play, parent coaching and collaboration with schools would be a good person to reach out to.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions; What is their background? What population do they specialize in? How do they incorporate parents into therapy? Taking the first step to finding the right fit for your family is a step in the right direction to creating a more calm environment at home.
Let me know how you’re doing. Contact me for a family consultation.
Katie Gately
Behaved Brain Wellness Center
Healthier Kids – Happier Parents