5 Myths About Child Therapy
Most people have a general idea about what it looks like to go to therapy as an adult but therapy with children looks much different! As a parent/caregiver, you may have tons of questions about what child therapy is or whether it can be helpful for your little one. You may even have concerns about possible myths you’ve heard! If so, let’s dig in and clear the air about the most common myths about child therapy!
1. Mental health issues don’t affect children.
Untreated mental health issues can negatively impact a child’s functioning in their home, school, and community environments. There is an increased risk of academic problems, behavioral issues, involvement with the juvenile justice system, worsening of anxiety and depression, etc. Early intervention is the most helpful approach to take! Depending on where you live it may be very easy or more challenging to find a therapist that specializes in child therapy. Here in Los Angeles, CA we are lucky to have many options and resources for child therapy!
2. If I wait long enough, my child will grow out of this.
If you’re worried about your child’s mental health please seek support from a medical or mental health professional right away. Remember, early intervention! Reaching out to your child’s pediatrician can rule out any medical issues that may impact well-being. Additionally, working with a therapist can provide tools and skills to your child to assist them in managing overwhelming thoughts and feelings, as well as helping you as the parent/caregiver to support utilization of these skills at home so that symptoms don’t become worse.
3. Only children with serious problems need therapy.
First off, the term “serious problems” is in and of itself problematic! Most children can benefit from therapy! Depending on the situation, a therapist may work with your child short-term or long-term to help them learn things like age-appropriate coping skills, to work on a specific concern, or to make sure they are better equipped to handle challenges and stressors in the future. Sometimes there are external events that impact families such as divorce, losing a parent/caregiver, moving to a new place, etc. that therapy can help support.
4. My child is having problems because I’m a bad parent.
Parenting is hard work! Just because your child is struggling does not mean you are a “bad” parent. Seeking help for your child is proactive, courageous, insightful, and a parenting STRENGTH! The fact that you’re looking at this blog means you are invested in your child’s well-being!
Parents are the most significant asset to a child’s therapy. While a therapist will give you tools and strategies to practice at home with your child, this is done in order to maximize progress. It’s not a judgment of your parenting skills! Remember, a therapist is there to help, not to judge.
5. Play therapy is a waste of time and money. I can play with my young child at home.
If you regularly play with your child at home - great! Keep doing that! Play has many benefits and purposes! Some of these include helping young children to express themselves, develop social skills, solve problems, and process challenges and difficulties.
Therapy, however, is a unique space where children use play to learn, grow, and become more resilient. Therapists who work with children have special training that supports their ability to cultivate a therapeutic play experience to create change. Play therapy can help you and your child feel less frustrated and more connected.
Are you ready for fewer meltdowns, less conflict, better coping, and happier feelings for you and your child?
Let’s connect!
If you have additional questions or are wondering if therapy is the right fit for your child, feel free to give me a call at 213-347-9577 or send an email to info@drleonetherapy.com. You can also check out my About page to learn more about me and my work with children and families. 
