At CARE Counseling, Inc., we believe every child deserves the chance to thrive emotionally, socially, and developmentally. Early childhood is a foundational period when mental health support can make a lasting impact. Our specialized child therapy services are designed to meet children where they are—through play, connection, and evidence-based techniques.

If you’re needing more support, come use our speciality child therapy office!

Why Early Childhood Therapy Matters

Scientific research shows that children as young as two can experience emotional distress, trauma, anxiety, grief, and behavioral challenges. Because young children are still developing verbal and cognitive skills, these issues often show up through behavior rather than words.

• Brain development during ages 2–9 is rapid and plastic, meaning experiences can shape neural connections in ways that impact long-term emotional regulation and relationships (Center on the Developing Child at Harvard, 2021).

• Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) can increase the risk of emotional, behavioral, and physical health challenges later in life (Felitti et al., 1998).

• Early intervention can improve resilience, secure attachment, and coping strategies, significantly altering a child’s developmental path for the better.

How Therapy Works for Young Children

Children don’t engage in therapy the same way adults do. At CARE Counseling, Inc., we use developmentally appropriate methods tailored to each child’s needs and age. Our approaches include:

1. Play Therapy

Play is a child’s natural language. Through toys, art, and storytelling, therapists help children express feelings, process experiences, and build coping skills.

2. Child-Centered and Attachment-Based Models

We foster a safe, attuned relationship that supports emotional expression and secure attachment, informed by theories such as attachment theory (Bowlby, Ainsworth).

3. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Children (CBT-C)

For older children (typically ages 6+), we use modified CBT to help children recognize emotions, challenge negative thoughts, and learn problem-solving skills.

4. Parent–Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)

This evidence-based model strengthens the parent-child relationship, enhances communication, and reduces disruptive behaviors through live coaching and skill-building.

5. Trauma-Informed Therapy

When children have experienced loss, abuse, or other stressors, we use trauma-sensitive methods such as TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused CBT), IFS (Internal Family Systems), Somatic Regulation, and narrative play approaches to ensure safety and healing.

The Role of Family in Child Therapy

At CARE Counseling, Inc., we believe therapy is most effective when it includes the whole support system. We actively involve parents and caregivers through:

• Regular parent check-ins

• Psychoeducation on child development and behavior

• Co-regulation and communication coaching

• Collaborative treatment planning
  

Family engagement empowers caregivers with tools to reinforce progress outside the therapy room and create a supportive home environment.

Social and Cultural Context Matters

Children are shaped not only by their family but also by the social worlds they inhabit—school, media, community, and culture. Our therapists are trained in culturally responsive practices and understand how racism, poverty, immigration, disability, and gender norms may impact a child’s mental health.

We affirm diverse identities and offer inclusive care that respects the unique context of each family.

What the Research Says

• Play therapy is linked to significant improvements in emotional expression, social skills, and problem-solving for children with anxiety, trauma, and disruptive behavior.

• Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) has shown strong efficacy in reducing externalizing behavior in children ages 2–7.

• Intervening early improves emotional literacy, school readiness, and long-term mental health outcomes.
  

Is Your Child Struggling?

Signs that your child may benefit from therapy include:

• Excessive fears or tantrums

• Regressive behaviors (e.g., bedwetting, clinginess)

• Difficulty with peers or school adjustment

• Aggression or withdrawal

• Sudden changes in appetite or sleep

• Exposure to stressful life events (divorce, grief, trauma, loss)

• Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)

• Diagnosed early childhood mental illness

• Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
  

No concern is too small. We welcome families with curiosity, compassion, and open arms.

Let’s Take the First Step Together

At CARE Counseling, Inc., our therapists are warm, playful, and professionally trained to support the needs of young children. We’re here to build trust, foster growth, and help your child shine.

Together, we’ll nurture the roots of resilience.