Child & Adolescent Therapy
Therapy at Foothills Therapeutic Services is available for all ages.
At Foothills Therapeutic Services, therapy is offered to individuals of all ages. Our approach with children and adolescents focuses on developing a thorough understanding of both the young person and their surrounding environment, as well as the dynamic relationship between the two. By gaining this insight, we are better equipped to support young people in having their needs met.
We are committed to exploring the various factors or potential underlying reasons that may contribute to challenging or difficult behaviours. It is common for children to struggle with verbalising their worries or experiences. As a result, these concerns often emerge through their behaviour.
We recognise that, at times, assigning a diagnosis may not be helpful and can even worsen difficult behaviours. Such labels may inadvertently send a negative message to the child, suggesting there is something inherently ‘wrong’ with them, which can foster feelings of resentment. Regardless of whether a diagnosis is present, our work with children and families centres on supporting them to express their needs and to address the issues underlying difficult behaviour.
Additionally, we assist families and children in understanding harm reduction strategies related to self-injury and self-harm, providing guidance and support throughout the therapeutic process.
Parental Involvement
Reasons for Seeking Therapy for Children and Adolescents
When supporting children and adolescents through therapy, we recognise the importance of involving parents in the therapeutic process as needed. This engagement not only assists the young person but also provides crucial support for parents during challenging times. By working collaboratively, we aim to foster a holistic approach that addresses the needs of the entire family unit.
There are several reasons why a child or adolescent might benefit from therapeutic support. Many of these reasons overlap with those experienced by adults, such as mental health challenges or specific diagnostic categories frequently associated with younger people, including ADHD or Oppositional-Defiant Disorder. In addition, children and adolescents may face unique challenges that therapy can help address, such as:
- Difficulties in interacting with friends or teachers
- Displaying acting out behaviour or struggling to follow instructions
- Refusing to attend school
- Experiencing difficulties with academic performance
- Possible incidents of bullying
- Feelings of fearfulness and avoidance
- Major life changes, such as family conflict or separation
- Thoughts and feelings about sexuality and gender
- Non-compliant or oppositional behaviour
- Extreme behaviour, including aggression or other antisocial conduct
- Nightmares or other sleep disruptions
- Bedwetting
- Experiencing grief and loss
- Overt signs of distress
- Withdrawing or shutting down emotionally
- Relationship problems with significant others
- Threats of self-harm or actual self-harming behaviour
- Instances of suspected abuse or other traumatic events
- Physical complaints, such as stomach pains or headaches, without any clear medical cause
- Withdrawal accompanied by signs that the child may be hearing voices
A Warm & Supportive Environment
Therapy sessions all take place in a warm and supportive environment, where people can express themselves freely in a safe, non-judgmental and confidential space.