Child Psychotherapy: When and Why to Seek Help for your Child.

As a parent, knowing when to seek help for your child’s emotional or behavioural issues can be difficult. Whilst it’s natural for a child to experience a varied range of emotions and go through difficult phases, some behaviours can become persistent and cause distress for both the child and the people around them. At times, unresolved issues may have a negative, limiting impact through into adulthood. Child psychotherapy can be an effective way to resolve immediate issues and prevent them from having a detrimental effect on your child’s future.

NeuroLoulé is delighted to announce a new addition to our team, child psychotherapist, Dr Maria João Monteiro. Dr Maria specialises in the assessment and intervention of children and teenagers at risk and is able to provide therapeutic consultations for a broad range of emotional and behavioural conditions, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues and adaptation difficulties. She is also able to help children build social skills and provides parental support where necessary.

How does child psychotherapy work, and when is intervention appropriate?

Child psychotherapy, or counselling, involves talking with a trained mental health professional, usually a psychologist or psychiatrist, about the child’s thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Therapy can be helpful in a number of situations including:

• Dealing with trauma or abuse: Psychotherapy can help a child learn to process and cope with their experience in a safe and supportive environment.
• Managing anxiety or depression: These conditions can interfere with a child’s daily life and relationships. Therapy provides coping skills and helps the child reframe their outlook on life.
• Relationships: Children and teenagers often struggle in their relationships with both family members and peers, leading to feelings of isolation and low self-esteem. Psychotherapy can help your child develop valuable communication skills and build stronger relationships.
• Adjustment issues: Significant life changes such as moving home, starting a new school or the loss of a loved one can be challenging and sometimes debilitating for children and teenagers. Providing them with a safe space in which to express their feelings and learn adaptation skills can be invaluable, benefitting the child throughout life.

Child psychotherapy is a powerful tool for helping children and teenagers learn how to cope with life’s challenges. If you believe your child could benefit from therapy or counselling, or you would like to explore the possibility further, please don’t hesitate to book a consultation with Dr Maria João Monteiro at NeuroLoulé Medical Centre.