Child Behavioral Issues
Behavior issues for kids can be complicated in understanding their origin and finding treatment solutions that work for the family, so we have a wise team approach.
For children from ages 0-5, our work is more with parents, shaping an environment that can help that child be successful. While play therapy is of course a necessity, our goal would be to understand, then translate your child to you as parents, through our Somatic/body centered lens. Confidentiality is not as closely guarded with a younger one as we want to be transparent and work seamlessly as a team. We’ll look together at the areas of development that are typically emerging, as well as where disruptions may have occurred. Communication with school, other caregivers or pediatricians are always options. Finally, we’ll support both parents (if there are two) to be on the same page – sometimes a difficult feat requiring couples support. We will want to help attachment factors be solid in these years to set the stage for strong growth in elementary school.
For children ages 5-11, play is still important, but the child’s use of language and logic has matured and can be of gradually more use in therapy. Confidentiality is still less of an issue (compared to teenage years), but a desire for a child to have his/her own space is growing. Our team approach is still primary, helping both parents and child transform to find a strong fit together. Independence should be growing here at home and school. FRG therapists may have a role in advocating for kids in elementary school, helping them find success and growth there.
Our body-oriented treatment again is a factor in treating kids. We help both parents and kids learn about their biology in fun ways: Building body awareness, learning soothing skills, ways to discharge energy in order to settle down, and slowing to make better choices, for example. We tend to be conservative with meds for younger ages, unless greater harm comes from a child being unmedicated.
For children age 11 on, please see our Teen web page.
“A sincere thank you to the whole team. You make me feel like we have a whole village behind us. :)” ~Anonymous Satisfaction Survey Participant
Still Have Questions?
Contact us today to schedule your first appointment or receive additional information.