The summer months are filled with BBQs, pool parties, summer camps and family vacations, but did you know that it can also be a great time to start therapy for your child? The summer months mean fewer school stressors, which can allow children to prioritize and focus on therapy and to work on the strategies they need to thrive.

Why start child therapy in the summer?

Starting therapy in summer can help children and families prepare for school changes and new challenges. It can also give kids the coping skills that they may not have had the previous year. A psychologist works with parents to give them the tools to support their child through difficult emotions, whether it’s on the “I’m so bored!” days of summer or the “this is too hard”, “I can’t do it” days of school or other activities. We can also offer suggestions and recommendations for parents to pass along to the school, so that your child is well supported when the school year begins.

Signs your child may benefit from support

Children and teens cannot always put their thoughts and feelings into words; this can make it hard for them to explain why they are struggling. Our team can help you explore concerns such as:

  • Anxiety that interferes with daily activities
  • Difficulty regulating emotions
  • Low mood or withdrawal
  • Frequent emotional outbursts
  • Reluctance or refusal to attend school
  • Difficulties in social situations
  • Difficulties sleeping

If your concern is about learning or school performance, a psychoeducational assessment answers different questions than therapy does. If you are unsure what your child might need, our team can help you explore the options.

Who attends the first session?

Therapy for younger children usually involves both the caregiver and child. Our client care team will let you know who should be present for the first session depending on the age of the child and the clinician you book with. It’s useful to come prepared with some everyday situations that have become challenging: getting ready for school, responding to a change of plans, recovering after frustration.

School demands, friendships and increasing independence can present many challenges for teens. Initial discussions can include what therapy involves, what their goals are and any questions your teen may have about the process. A therapist can help your teen make sense of how they’re feeling, and learn how to deal with difficult thoughts and emotions in a way that allows them to be the person they want to be.

Who will my child see?

Our Child and Youth team has:

  • Psychologists registered with the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario
  • Social workers registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers
  • Practicum students, who are graduate students completing their PhD, working under the supervision of a registered psychologist

Practicum students are our lower cost option. Our clinicians use evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), emotion focused therapy (EFT) and dialectical behaviour informed therapy (DBT). If you’re unsure of what type of clinician you’d like to book with, our client care team can help walk you through the options or book you a consultation call.

Can my child do therapy virtually over the summer?

Virtual therapy for children and youth depends on the child’s age and their presenting concerns. If you require virtual options for your child, for example while you’re travelling or at the cottage, please let our client care team know when booking and they can discuss options and requirements. Your child needs to be physically located in Ontario for a virtual therapy appointment.

What kind of improvements can we expect to see?

As your child progresses in therapy the goal will be noticeable change in things like social relationships, sleep patterns, confidence, awareness of thoughts and feelings and how to express them, coping mechanisms and communication.

It’s important to remember that progress is individual and not linear. You will see good days and days that feel like a bit of a setback. Progress also depends on applying the skills learned in therapy outside of the treatment room, and summer gives your child time to practise them before school starts.

Book child therapy in Mississauga

If you’re looking for an easier transition back to school and want to prepare your child for the challenges of a new school year, our registered psychologists can help. Our clinicians understand that summers are busy and offer flexible hours to help with your busy schedules. If you’re interested in more information or would like to book an appointment, contact our team or give us a call at 905-814-8200. You can also read more about our child and teen therapy in Mississauga, and how we direct bill 11 insurers for child therapy in summer.