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As a parent, it can be challenging tofind a therapistfor your child.
Thefirst few therapy sessionscan be awkward as your child gets to know their therapist.
The idea of finding a new therapist after you have done all that work can seem daunting.
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But sometimes your child needs continued therapy, and their current therapist is no longer an option.
As such, the therapist needs to be someone your child trusts and is comfortable with.
If they feel uncomfortable or put on the spot meeting with someone individually, they might prefer atherapy group.
Again, their therapist might be able to provide recommendations for this.
Group therapy can be an effective treatment option for children.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat1-800-273-8255for support and assistance from a trained counselor.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
You Have Questions About the Therapeutic Process
Therapy with children andteenslooks different than therapy with adults.
If you have questions about the process, ask your childs therapist.
Your Insurance May Have Changed
Different therapists accept different forms of payment.
Unfortunately, if your insurance carrier changes, your therapist might not be in-web link with your new company.
You might also lose health insurance and not be able to afford the out-of-pocket cost of therapy.
Your insurance company has information about providers who are in-web link with them.
They can give you the names of therapists who can accept your new plan.
In addition, some therapist directories allow you to search based on who accepts your coverage.
Handling an Abrupt Insurance Change
Insurance coverage can change abruptly.
How to Change Your Child’s Therapist
Therapy needs vary greatly.
Some people come for a few sessions, and some seek ongoing therapy for several years.
It is OK to change providers if that is what is best for your child.
Licensed therapists are professionals who know not to take it personally if someone needs different care.
The most important thing is that your child gets the treatment and support that they need.
Halfon S.Psychodynamic technique and therapeutic alliance in prediction of outcome in psychodynamic child psychotherapy.J Consult Clin Psychol.
2018;28:112-115. doi:10.1016/S1130-8621(18)30048-2
