Does my child need therapy?
How to Know If Your Child Needs Therapy
Supporting Your Child’s Emotional Wellbeing
As parents, it's natural to worry when your child seems withdrawn, anxious, or out of sorts. But how do you know when these signs point to something more — when it might be time to seek professional help?
Just like adults, children experience stress, fear, sadness, and frustration. However, they don’t always have the words to express what they’re feeling, which can make it hard to know when they’re struggling beneath the surface.
In this post, we’ll explore some common signs that may indicate your child could benefit from therapy — and how seeking support early can make all the difference.
1. Changes in Behaviour or Mood
Has your child suddenly become more irritable, tearful, or withdrawn? Perhaps they’ve lost interest in things they used to enjoy, or their behaviour at home or school has changed dramatically.
While mood swings can be part of growing up, a consistent shift in your child’s behaviour may suggest they’re dealing with something difficult internally.
2. Struggles with Anxiety or Worry
All children worry from time to time — but excessive worry that interferes with everyday life can be a red flag. You might notice:
Trouble sleeping
Constant need for reassurance
Avoidance of school or social situations
Frequent physical complaints like stomachaches or headaches
3. Difficulty Regulating Emotions
Tantrums, outbursts, or emotional shutdowns can be part of normal development. But if your child regularly finds it hard to manage their emotions, therapy can help them understand and cope in healthier ways.
4. Traumatic or Stressful Events
Children often need extra support after experiencing:
Parental separation or divorce
Death of a loved one or pet
Bullying or friendship difficulties
Moving schools or homes
A health diagnosis or hospital stay
Therapy offers a safe space to process these experiences and prevent long-term emotional distress.
5. Social or Academic Struggles
If your child is having trouble making or keeping friends, or their teacher has raised concerns about their behaviour, focus, or emotional wellbeing in school, it could be a sign that they need support beyond the classroom.
6. Regression in Developmental Skills
Sudden bedwetting, thumb-sucking, or clinging behaviour after a period of normal development may indicate emotional distress — especially in younger children who express themselves more through behaviour than words.
7. Your Gut Feeling as a Parent
Sometimes, you can’t quite put your finger on it — but something feels “off.” You know your child best. If you’re feeling concerned, it’s worth trusting your instincts and seeking professional advice.
How Therapy Can Help
Child therapy provides a safe, non-judgmental space for children to explore their feelings, build resilience, and learn tools for managing difficult emotions. It can also offer guidance and support to you as a parent.
At Circle Therapy, we use creative, age-appropriate approaches — including play, art, and talking therapy — tailored to your child’s developmental needs. We also work closely with parents to ensure you feel informed and supported every step of the way.
Worried About Your Child? Let’s Talk.
If you’ve recognised any of the signs above, you’re not alone — and you don’t need to have all the answers. Therapy is a compassionate step forward, not a sign of failure.
You’re welcome to contact us. We’ll listen, answer your questions, and help you decide what support is right for your child and family.
We offer parent consultations and parent assessments if you are concerned about your child.