How Do I Know If My Child Needs a Therapist? 7 Signs to Look Out For
As a parent, you want the best for your child: physical health, happiness, and emotional well-being. But sometimes, children face challenges that aren’t always visible or easy to understand. Just like adults, kids can experience stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma that may require professional help. The question is: How do you know when your child needs to see a therapist?
While every child has ups and downs, certain signs may indicate that your child is struggling and could benefit from the support of a mental health professional. Here are seven key signs to look out for that can help you determine if it might be time to seek therapy for your child.
1. Changes in Behavior or Mood
One of the most noticeable signs is a significant change in your child’s behavior or mood. This could include sudden irritability, frequent crying, withdrawal from family and friends, or extreme mood swings. If your child used to be outgoing and suddenly becomes quiet and distant, or if they display anger or sadness that doesn’t seem to fade, it may indicate underlying emotional issues.
Keep in mind that mood changes can be normal during growth and development, but persistent or extreme changes are worth paying attention to.
2. Difficulty in School
Academic struggles are common. However, if your child is suddenly having trouble concentrating, failing grades, or shows a lack of interest in schoolwork, it may be more than just a temporary issue. Anxiety, depression, or other emotional challenges can affect cognitive abilities and motivation.
Additionally, if your child is experiencing bullying, social isolation, or fear related to school, these stressors could impact their mental health and indicate a need for professional support.
3. Changes in Sleep Patterns or Appetite
Physical symptoms such as trouble sleeping or changes in appetite can be signs of emotional distress. If your child is having nightmares, difficulty falling asleep, or sleeping too much, this might be related to anxiety or stress.
Similarly, sudden weight loss or gain, refusal to eat, or overeating can signal underlying issues like depression or an eating disorder. These physical changes should never be ignored.
4. Excessive Worry or Fear
It’s normal for children to have fears or worries, but if these feelings become overwhelming or interfere with daily life, they may need help. Signs include constant worrying about safety, health, school performance, or social situations.
Anxiety disorders can manifest in children as frequent stomachaches, headaches, or avoidance of certain activities. If your child’s worries seem irrational or are causing distress, a therapist can teach coping strategies.
5. Social Withdrawal or Trouble Making Friends
Children thrive on social connections, so if your child is avoiding peers, refusing to participate in social activities, or having trouble making or keeping friends, this could be a warning sign.
Social withdrawal can be linked to depression, anxiety, or other emotional difficulties. A therapist can help your child build social skills and work through issues that may be making social interactions challenging.
6. Persistent Sadness or Loss of Interest in Activities
If your child shows ongoing sadness, cries frequently, or loses interest in hobbies and activities they once enjoyed, it may be a sign of depression. Children don’t always express depression the same way adults do, so watch for irritability, fatigue, or feelings of hopelessness.
Persistent low mood that lasts more than a couple of weeks should be taken seriously and evaluated by a mental health professional.
7. Traumatic Events or Major Life Changes
Experiencing trauma or significant life changes can deeply affect a child’s emotional health. This includes things like the loss of a loved one, parental divorce, moving to a new home or school, or witnessing violence or abuse.
Even if your child seems to be coping on the surface, unresolved feelings can manifest later as anxiety, behavioral issues, or emotional shutdown. Therapy can provide a safe space to process these experiences.
When to Seek Child Therapy: Trust Your Instincts
No one knows your child better than you. If you notice these signs or just have a gut feeling that something is wrong, it’s worth considering a professional evaluation. Early intervention can make a huge difference in helping your child develop healthy coping skills and emotional resilience.
What Happens in a Play Therapy Session?
Therapy for children is tailored to their age and needs. Techniques may include play therapy, talk therapy, or art therapy. A trained child therapist creates a safe, supportive environment where your child can express their feelings and learn tools to manage emotions.
Therapy also offers parents guidance on how to support their child and navigate challenges as a family.
Final Thoughts from a Katy Play Therapist
Parenting can be challenging, and recognizing when your child needs extra support is not always easy. Watching for these seven signs—changes in mood, behavior, school performance, sleep or appetite, excessive worry, social withdrawal, persistent sadness, and reactions to trauma—can help you identify when therapy might be beneficial.
Seeking help early can set your child on a path toward emotional well-being and a brighter future. Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and shows your commitment to your child’s happiness and health.
If you’re unsure, consider consulting with your pediatrician or a mental health professional for guidance.
Ready to Get Started with Our Child Therapy?
If you’ve noticed shifts in your child’s behavior, mood, or emotional well-being, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate this on your own either. At AP Counseling Group, our child therapists specialize in helping families understand what’s behind those big feelings and behaviors, offering kids a safe place to express, process, and heal.
Reach out today to schedule a consultation with one of our child therapists in Katy.
Explore our blogs for more insights into child counseling and play therapy.
Together, we’ll explore how therapy can support your child’s growth and bring peace back into your home.
Other Services We Offer in Katy & Surrounding Areas
We know that healing happens best when the whole family is supported. That’s why we offer several services at AP Counseling Group. Our trauma counseling helps clients heal from painful experiences, while teen counseling helps adolescents navigate challenges and strengthen their relationships. Additionally, adult counseling and Christian counseling are tailored to support adults manage life pressures, relationship challenges, and more.
About the Author: Amy Oxener (LCSW-S, RPT)
Amy Oxener (LCSW-S, RPT) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisor, Registered Play Therapist, and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). Additionally, advanced training in Adlerian Play Therapy, Theraplay (Level One), and Trauma-Focused CBT. Amy specializes in working with children facing ADHD, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and behavior concerns.
Amy’s approach is holistic and attachment-based, blending cognitive-behavioral and narrative therapies while attending to the emotional, mental, spiritual, and relational needs of each child. Whether your child is overwhelmed by big emotions or struggling with transitions, Amy is here to help them—and you—find clarity, confidence, and healing.