6 Types of Child Therapy
There are common themes among therapeutic approaches to working with kids, but highlighting a few key differences can help parents and caregivers understand which approach might best help their child. The success of a therapeutic approach often depends heavily on age, preference, concern, and ability. Every child is unique with varying needs, so the chosen modality should align with the child and their specific challenges. A well-matched therapy modality can provide a safe and effective space for children to express themselves, build coping skills, and navigate through emotional and behavioral difficulties. With the right therapist, the therapeutic experience will be tailored to the child's individual needs to foster a supportive environment for positive growth.
PLAY THERAPY
Kids use carefully curated toys, games, and materials to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and experiences both verbally and non-verbally through play. This therapeutic approach provides a safe and supportive environment for emotional exploration and cognitive development.
METHODS: toys, games, books, creative activities, role-play, talk therapy
BEST FOR: early childhood, non-verbal, anxiety, emotional regulation, depression, transitions
2. FAMILY THERAPY
Families learn to improve communication and constructively resolve conflicts. This therapeutic approach explores family dynamics and relationship patterns in a supportive environment to foster understanding, empathy, repair, and strengthened connections.
METHODS: talk therapy, psycho-education, role-play, active listening, communication skills
BEST FOR: family transitions/adjustments, parent or sibling relational issues, conduct disorders
3. DIALECTICAL BEHAVIORAL THERAPY (DBT)
Kids learn to take personal responsibility while identifying and managing intense emotions and interpersonal challenges. This therapeutic approach emphasizes the validity of emotions while promoting positive change in behavior.
METHODS: talk therapy, mindfulness practice, worksheets, coping skills, psycho-education
BEST FOR: self-harm/suicidal ideation, ADHD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance use disorders, bipolar disorder, conduct disorders
4. ACCEPTANCE AND COMMITMENT THERAPY (ACT)
Kids learn to accept their thoughts and feelings without judgment while committing to actions that align with their values. This therapeutic approach helps kids develop coping skills, regulate their emotions, and bounce back from adversity.
METHODS: mindfulness practice, therapeutic worksheets, talk therapy, role-play
BEST FOR: resilience, emotional regulation, anxiety, depression
5. PARENT CHILD INTERACTION THERAPY (PTIC)
Parents and kids actively participate in sessions that focus on setting healthy boundaries, practicing effective communication, and learning constructive discipline strategies. This therapeutic approach improves the parent-child relationship while addressing behavioral and emotional issues.
METHODS: parent coaching, psycho-education, coping skills, behavioral management, play
BEST FOR: disruptive behavior, emotional regulation, trauma, autism spectrum disorder
6. COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY (CBT)
Kids learn to understand the connections between their thoughts, feelings, and actions. This therapeutic approach aims to replace negative thought patterns with more adaptive ways of thinking, which in turn positively affects behavior.
METHODS: therapeutic worksheets, talk therapy, relaxation techniques, coping skills, role-play
BEST FOR: anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, trauma
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