Think of a child’s mind: the possibilities, the openness, the future. You would do anything to protect and nurture the potential. So, when difficulties arise in school, at home, or in coping with what life brings, you respond with wisdom and kindness. You know that children are unique and require a different kind of treatment than adults. Just as you choose educators and pediatricians who have the talent and temperament children need, you choose our children’s mental health treatment program because we specialize in children’s development and behavior.
Children and adolescents are referred to us by pediatricians, school counselors, clinicians, and family members for a variety of concerns. The results can be life-changing. If you or a family member is ready to reach out for child or adolescent mental health support that will benefit the whole family, call Columbia Associates at 703.682.8208.
What Is Unique About Children’s Mental Health Care
We have child and teen therapists specifically trained to provide a safe, supportive listening environment. Children and teenagers will learn more effective ways to manage upsetting emotions with the help of our team.
Therapists and counselors in our children’s mental health treatment program help with:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- ADHD (including ADHD testing and evaluations)
- Anger management and defiant behavior
- Low self-esteem and stress
- Learning deficits and academic underachievement
- Bullying
- Adjustments to a loss, such as the death of a family member or friend, divorce, or family relocation
- Recovery from abuse and other forms of trauma
- Eating disorders
- Social skills deficit
- Enuresis and encopresis (bedwetting and soiling)
- Family discord
- Unique childhood concerns
There are many stressors that school-aged children and teens undergo. Below are just a few common issues that might indicate support is needed.
School Avoidance
School avoidance is often a symptom of a deeper problem, but what could be the problem? Whether it’s social anxiety, fear of bullying, relational issues, embarrassment over school performance, or a number of other possibilities, there is help. If ignored, it can have a negative effect on socialization skills, education, self-esteem, coping skills, and problem-solving.
Learning Disabilities
Columbia Associates understands the importance of careful diagnosis and interventions. Learning disabilities can impact self-esteem, moods, and relationships. Homework time can be challenging for kids who learn differently, but it doesn’t stop there. We believe it is essential to work with the schools so children are understood, advocated for, and provided resources to meet their needs. Our strong relationship with area schools, both public and private, allows us to work more effectively with our clients, their families, and the community.
Bullying
Just because you don’t see it happening doesn’t mean it’s not. Every day, thousands of kids are afraid to go to school because of bullying. Even scarier, for many kids, home is no longer safe because bullies have entered the home through virtual means. In fact, 58% of kids admit someone has said mean or hurtful things to them online, while 53% of kids admit to having said something mean or hurtful to a peer online. Join our community in making a difference by understanding and stopping the culture of bullying.
Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD)
Living with a child with oppositional defiant disorder can feel like they are running the household, and in some cases, they might be. Beginning with a comprehensive evaluation is key to formulating the most effective interventions and treatment plans. Children with ODD are most successful with a combination of individual interventions and family interventions. The focus is often on problem-solving skills, limit-setting, and effective discipline strategies. It is estimated that 10% of children with ODD will go on to develop a personality disorder.
The Benefits of Treatment for Childhood Mental Health Concerns
Mental health treatment helps children and teens learn more effective ways of managing confusing or upsetting emotional states and learn new ways of viewing and interacting with the world around them. Our therapists work to build on the strengths and resources of each child or teen and her/his family to help overcome the types of challenges listed above. The aim is to facilitate the healthy, vibrant psychological development of your child.
Child and teen therapists in our children’s mental health treatment program tailor care to the specific needs of each family’s situation. They incorporate some combination of the following strategies:
- Individual therapy
- Relaxation skills
- Assertiveness skills
- Emotion regulation skills
- Healthy lifestyle habits
- Improved behavior patterns
- Improved self-worth
- Relationship skills
- Resolution of painful emotional experiences linked to traumatic events
- Family therapy
- Medication evaluations conveniently offered at all our clinics when necessary
Get Mental Health Support for the Children and Teens in Your Life Through Columbia Associates
Whether children and adolescents are going through major life changes, unusual mood swings, typical youth stressors, or a combination of these and more, their long-term mental well-being benefits immensely from early intervention. Our skilled intake teams can help determine how to best support the youth in your life. If you or a family member is ready to reach out for children’s mental health treatment that will benefit the whole family, call us today at 703.682.8208.