When to Consider Therapy for Your Child

As a parent, noticing changes in your child’s emotions, behavior, or daily habits can be concerning—and sometimes confusing. While all children experience ups and downs, certain patterns may signal deeper struggles that could benefit from professional support. This guide can help you recognize when it may be time to consider therapy for your child.

Emotional and Behavioral Changes

Children and teens naturally experience emotional shifts as they grow, but when these changes are intense, prolonged, or seem out of character, they could be more than just a phase. Mood swings or emotional fluctuations that appear extreme or persist for more than a few weeks can serve as warning signs. Ongoing feelings of sadness, anxiety, irritability, or intense anger may point to underlying mental health concerns. If a child starts withdrawing from friends, family, or activities they once enjoyed, it could be an indication that they’re struggling internally. Similarly, becoming unusually quiet, secretive, or emotionally distant may reflect an attempt to hide inner pain or confusion.

Physical and Sleep-Related Signs

Mental and emotional challenges can often manifest physically, particularly in children who may lack the words to express how they’re feeling. Sleep disturbances—such as insomnia, nightmares, or sleeping too much—are common indicators of emotional distress. If your child appears consistently tired or low in energy despite getting enough rest, it could be a sign of something more than just a busy schedule. Significant changes in appetite, whether eating much more or much less than usual, may also point to emotional upset. Frequent, unexplained physical complaints like headaches or stomachaches—especially when medical evaluations find no clear cause—can be linked to stress or anxiety. Pay attention to repeated visits to the school nurse or frequent requests to stay home, as these behaviors may reflect an attempt to avoid stressful or overwhelming environments.

Functional Impairments

Therapy can be especially helpful when emotional struggles begin to interfere with your child’s ability to function on a daily basis. Signs that it may be time to seek support include noticeable changes in academic performance, such as declining grades or unfinished assignments; difficulty concentrating, staying organized, or completing tasks; and school avoidance or frequent absences that go beyond normal reluctance.

Concerning Thoughts or Behaviors

Some signs of emotional distress require immediate attention. Even if you’re uncertain about the seriousness, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and consult a mental health professional. If your child expresses feelings of worthlessness or of being a burden, engages in self-injury such as cutting or burning, or makes statements about wanting to die—or if there are any other safety concerns—it’s critical to seek help right away.

Trust Your Instincts

No one knows your child better than you do. If something feels “off” or your child just doesn’t seem like themselves, it’s okay to seek guidance. Therapy is not just for crises—it’s a proactive, supportive step toward helping your child feel better and thrive.

If you’re unsure where to start, speaking with a child therapist can be a helpful first step. A consultation can provide clarity and guidance on whether therapy might be beneficial for your child. You’re not alone in this—support is available. If you’ve noticed any of the signs above, or simply want to talk through your concerns, I’m here to help.