keri@lifehealingheart.com
www.lifehealingheart.com
What exactly is counseling and Why would you need counseling?

No one grows up without experiencing some bumps along the way. While each of us is unique and special, sometimes we encounter problems with feelings or behaviors that disrupt our lives and the lives of those around us.

Sometimes you might have trouble in school.

Maybe you are having trouble with friends.

Maybe you are having problems at home.

Maybe your parents are concerned about what is "going on" with you.  Sometimes parents and families worry if they might be to blame for their child's problems. They think, "Why me? Why my child?" Having those feelings and worries is normal and is a sign of caring.

Many different things can cause problems, but all disorders are treatable. Many problems can be solved and symptoms can almost always be improved with treatment.


But do you know what actually happens during counseling?


Counseling is sitting down with someone to sort out feelings or problems you may be struggling with. A counselor helps you look at your situation, alone or with your family, and come up with some ways to deal with these problems.


What is psychotherapy for children and adolescents?

Child and adolescent therapists should be specifically trained to treat children and adolescents. They help young people who may be feeling sad, acting disruptive or rebellious, not paying attention, not coping with things, getting involved with drugs and alcohol, not eating or sleeping normally or not getting along with family, friends, and at school.

The treatment these therapists use is called psychotherapy. Through psychotherapy -- sharing feelings through playing, drawing, building, pretending and talking -- children learn to understand and change the feelings and behaviors that are causing them problems.

Psychotherapy may involve an individual child, group or family.

When a child or adolescent goes to see a mental health professional for the first time, they go through what is called an assessment. The mental health professional will find out what the child's current problems are, what their history is, their level of development, ability to cooperate in treatment, and what they can do to help.

The relationship that develops between the therapist and the client is very important. The child or adolescent must feel comfortable, safe and understood. This type of trusting environment makes it much easier for the child to express his thoughts and feelings and to use the therapy in a useful way.

During psychotherapy, children and adolescents receive emotional support, resolve conflicts with people, understand feelings and problems, and try out new solutions to old problems.

Goals for therapy may be specific (change in behavior, improved relations with friends), or more general (less anxiety, better self-esteem.)

The length of psychotherapy depends on how complex and severe the problems are. Some children and adolescents respond to short-term treatment (for example, up to 12 sessions). When the problem lasts for a long time or is complicated, a longer term of treatment may be needed.

Disclaimer: The contents of this site and all the pages herein are intended for informational purposes only and are subject to change without notice at any time. None of the information in this site is intended to be taken as medical direction or advice, therapeutic, legal, or otherwise. This is not a replacement for professional services.  At no time does use of this site nor communication through this site constitute a therapeutic relationship between the user and therapist. Keri M. Zwerner, MA, LMFT and LifeHealingHeart assume no liability for the content of this site or damages that may result from use, reference to, reliance on, or decisions resulting from its use. Use of this site establishes your consent to the provisions of this disclaimer. Copyright 2006. All rights reserved
Disclaimer: The contents of this site and all the pages herein are intended for informational purposes only and are subject to change without notice at any time. None of the information in this site is intended to be taken as medical direction or advice, therapeutic, legal, or otherwise. This is not a replacement for professional services.  At no time does use of this site nor communication through this site constitute a therapeutic relationship between the user and therapist. Keri M. Zwerner, MA, LMFT and LifeHealingHeart assume no liability for the content of this site or damages that may result from use, reference to, reliance on, or decisions resulting from its use. Use of this site establishes your consent to the provisions of this disclaimer. Copyright 2006. All rights reserved