Child, Teen & Young Adult Therapists in West Chester, PA

We provide virtual therapy, also called online therapy, to children aged 10 and older, and to young adults 18-24.

Our pediatric therapists provide virtual therapy to children aged 10 and older, and to adolescents and young adults 18-24. We’ll begin seeing younger children later this year in our in-person clinics.

Our pediatric therapists are trained in evaluating and treating a wide range of conditions and concerns. These include anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, other mood disorders, impulse control, and adjustment disorders among others. Read more about our care model.

We offer virtual treatment to children, young adults and families who live in Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Florida, North Carolina or New Jersey.

Not currently. While some children may need medication, we strongly believe in starting with psychotherapy and introducing medication only when clinically appropriate. We are taking a measured approach, and expect to offer medications later this year.

The appropriate age for a child to start therapy depends on their individual needs and circumstances. Parents should consider factors such as the child’s age, developmental level, and any existing mental health issues to ensure the best possible outcome. Evidence-based treatment can be sought if the child excels in multiple areas of life, displays positive mood and behavior changes, or exhibits constructive or cooperative behavior. Read our article "Handspring Health: Signs Your Child May Need a Therapist" for more tips.

While both child psychiatrists and child therapists aim to help children with mental health concerns, there are distinct differences between the two professions. A child psychiatrist is a medical doctor specializing in mental health diagnosis and treatment, providing effective medication. On the other hand, a licensed psychologist or child therapist is a mental health professional who offers talk therapy, creative play therapy, or empowering CBT to help children overcome issues such as childhood trauma.

Child psychology is a fascinating field that focuses on the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development of children at different stages of their lives. It helps gain insight into their thought processes, emotions, and behaviors. Children’s development includes changes in height, weight, motor skills, problem-solving, memory, language, recognizing and expressing emotions, and interacting with others, building relationships, understanding social norms, and developing empathy.

Yes, it's okay for a 13-year-old to go to therapy. It can be a safe space for them to explore their thoughts and emotions while providing invaluable support in areas such as self-discovery, stress, life events, or mental health and relationship issues. It can also offer the opportunity to develop effective coping strategies, enhance resilience, and identify and address any underlying issues causing distress.

Counseling can be beneficial for children as young as two years old. For example, play therapy can be a great way to help kids aged 3 to 5 years. The appropriate age for counseling varies depending on the child’s individual needs and life circumstances, ensuring that they receive the most effective support possible.

When discussing counseling with your child, it’s essential to use age-appropriate language and emphasize the positive aspects of therapy. Explain that counseling is a fantastic place where they feel empowered and can chat with a new friend and learn about their feelings. Be open and honest with your child about the purpose of counseling and reassure them that it's a safe space to share their thoughts and emotions.

Yes, therapy can be beneficial for 12-year-olds as it provides a safe place to foster healthy coping skills, learn to effectively express their emotions, and build confidence in themselves. Various therapy options, such as CBT, play therapy, family therapy, and commitment therapy, are available depending on their individual needs and concerns. These treatment methods can be assessed by a family therapist to help determine the most suitable approach.

LCSW stands for Licensed Clinical Social Worker. LCSWs are social workers who have earned a master’s degree in social work (MSW) and completed the necessary training and state licensure to provide clinical mental health services and therapy to individuals, families, and groups.

LPC stands for Licensed Professional Counselor. They provide mental health services in various healthcare settings and work with individuals, families, and groups to address emotional, behavioral, and psychological challenges. Depending on the state, LPCs may also be called a licensed clinical professional counselor or licensed mental health counselor. To become an LPC, you must earn a Master’s in counseling or a related doctoral degree and obtain a state license before providing services.

The best type of therapy for young adults depends on their specific needs and concerns. CBT, interpersonal therapy, group therapy, and family therapy can all be helpful. These therapies can help young adults recognize and modify unfavorable thought patterns and behaviors, enhance communication and relationships, offer support and understanding from peers, and assist the entire family in working together to address issues. Each type has its own unique benefits and can be tailored to the individual’s needs. For example, CBT can help young adults identify and modify negative thought patterns.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 23.2% of those aged 18–44 received mental health treatment in 2021. 10% of children aged 5–17 received counseling or therapy from a mental health professional in 2019.

The ideal therapist depends on individual preferences and needs. Young therapists can provide a unique connection to younger clients, being familiar with the latest trends and issues that young people face. They are also likely to be open to fresh ideas and approaches to therapy. On the other hand, therapists with extensive experience can bring a wealth of knowledge and understanding, offering compassion towards the common challenges of aging, such as physical and mental health issues. The key is to find a therapist that you and your child can trust and feel comfortable with.

Yes, a therapist can help with childhood trauma by providing a safe and supportive environment for children to talk about their experiences. They can help children gain understanding and process their emotions, teach them skills to manage their thoughts and feelings, and address any underlying issues that may be causing distress. Through therapy, children can learn to communicate with others effectively, express their feelings, and modify their behavior.

Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is the main treatment for complex childhood trauma. Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and the development of strong coping mechanisms can also be effective in managing complex childhood trauma.

Therapies such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) are highly successful in addressing childhood trauma. The best type of therapy for childhood trauma can be tailored to each individual’s specific needs and preferences, considering factors such as the severity of the trauma and the individual’s coping skills. For example, TF-CBT is often used to help children process and cope with traumatic experiences, while CPT is used to help individuals identify and challenge negative thoughts and beliefs related to the trauma. EMDR is used to help individuals reprocess traumatic memories and reduce the intensity of the associated emotions.

Psychologists who specialize in trauma-focused CBT can provide invaluable support for families affected and those dealing with childhood trauma. This type of therapy encourages individuals to process and understand their traumatic experiences in a positive way. They help children develop resilience, strength, and healthy coping skills while addressing any underlying issues that may be causing distress.

To start a therapy session with your child, create a safe and comforting atmosphere. Discuss with your child why they are there and what they can expect from the session. Encourage them to express any concerns they may have about counseling and reassure them that the therapist is there to help them navigate their issues and offer guidance. Tell your child know that it is okay to talk about their feelings and it is important to be honest. Read our article "How to Talk to Your Child About Starting Therapy" for more tips.

A child should see a psychologist about anxiety when their symptoms are strong, persistent, and impacting their day-to-day life. Seeking professional help from a psychologist can provide valuable support and guidance to help children manage their anxiety and stress and improve their overall well-being. Psychologists can help children identify and understand their anxiety triggers, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. They can also provide guidance to parents on how to best support their child.

A child should see a child psychologist to develop essential skills to cope with their problems and improve their well-being. Psychologists can provide invaluable assistance with learning, behavior, emotions, and mental health. They can offer support and guidance in various areas, such as managing emotions, learning coping strategies, and developing social skills.

A child psychologist and child psychotherapist both aim to help children with mental health concerns. Child psychologists typically have a doctoral degree in psychology and specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health issues. Child psychotherapists may have a master’s degree in psychology, social work, or counseling and specialize in helping children understand and express their feelings in a positive way. Botch child psychologists and child psychotherapists use evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

To encourage your child to see a psychologist, explain that therapy is a place where they can share their thoughts and feelings with a new friend. Use age-appropriate language and be open and honest with your child about the purpose of therapy, ensuring a safe place for them.

Adolescent psychotherapy is designed for individuals between the ages of 13 and 19, focusing on empowering adolescents as they grow. It helps them develop positive coping skills, foster self-esteem, and learn how to effectively manage their emotions and stress.

Child psychology is a broad field that studies the mental processes of children and adolescents, while clinical child psychology is a specialty within child psychology focusing on helping children and adolescents by diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral problems.

Yes, therapy is worth it for kids. It can help kids reduce anxiety and depression, boost self-esteem, and improve coping and social skills and emotional intelligence. It can also help children learn to communicate with others effectively, express their feelings, modify their behavior, and hone problem-solving skills.

Yes, online therapy can be effective for kids, particularly in treating symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma. It offers increased confidentiality and privacy, as well as the convenience of accessing therapy from anywhere. Online therapy can be more cost-efficient than traditional in-person therapy, making it an attractive option for many families.

In some cases, it may be helpful for you to attend therapy sessions with your child so that the therapist can get to know you and your child better and help you work together to address the child's mental health concerns. In other cases, it may be more beneficial for you to attend sessions separately from your child. This can be helpful if you're struggling with your own mental health concerns or if you need help learning how to parent a child with mental health challenges. Ultimately, the decision is a personal one, and what works for one family member may not work for another. If you're unsure about whether or not you should attend sessions with your child, ask your child's therapist for advice.

Your journey with Handspring starts with a free consult call. Once we understand what you're looking for, we'll match you with a therapist for a 90-minute assessment session during which your therapist takes the time to understand your child's strengths and needs and develop a treatment plan. This is followed by weekly 45 to 55-minute sessions, designed to equip your child with lifelong skills they can use to spring forward with confidence.

Ensure that the therapist is licensed and has appropriate qualifications to work with children. Look for credentials such as Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), or Psychologist (Ph.D. or Psy.D.). Consider therapists who also have experience treating the specific issues or challenges your child is facing. Pay attention to your child's comfort level and rapport with the therapist. Your child should feel safe and supported in the therapist's presence. Observe the therapist's communication style during initial consultations or sessions. The right therapist should involve both you and your child in the treatment process, be able to explain concepts in an age-appropriate manner, actively listen to your child's concerns, provide feedback, and offer guidance on how you can support your child's progress. We also recommend researching the therapist's reputation and online reviews.

Therapy for teens involves confidential one-on-one sessions with a licensed therapist. At Handspring, our highly-trained therapists use principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Behavioral Parent Training (BPT) to build on the unique strengths of each teen and family. Treatment is skills-based and focuses on resolving real-world problems in the short term and providing life-long skills to help youth confidently navigate future challenges. Our therapists involve parents and caregivers in every step of the process and respect them as critical partners in helping each child thrive.

The duration can vary based on several factors, including the concerns being addressed, the severity of the issues, the teenager's receptiveness to therapy, and the therapist's treatment approach. Therapy is not a quick fix and may take several weeks or months to show significant progress. Some teens may benefit from short-term therapy focused on specific goals, while others may require longer-term treatment for more complex issues. The therapist will regularly assess progress and make recommendations based on the teenager's needs. Remember: each individual's journey is unique and the duration of therapy can vary greatly.

Approach the conversation with empathy and patience. Clearly express your concerns about the teenager's well-being and explain how therapy can be beneficial in addressing their challenges. Discuss the idea of therapy as a common and positive resource for people of all ages. Highlight that seeking help is a sign of strength and self-care, emphasizing that many individuals benefit from professional support. Address any misconceptions or concerns the teen may have about therapy. Explain that therapists are there to provide support, guidance, and a safe place to explore their thoughts and emotions. If possible, allow the teen to participate in the selection of a therapist to increase the teen's sense of control and investment in the process. Let the teen know that you'll be there to support them throughout the process and reassure them that therapy is confidential. If the teenager is resistant, focus on building a supportive environment and maintaining open lines of communication until they are more receptive to the idea. You may also want to consider involving a trusted professional, such as a school counselor or pediatrician who can provide further insight and guidance.

Preparing teens for therapy involves creating a supportive environment and addressing their concerns. Strategies include discussing the benefits of therapy, normalizing the process, addressing concerns and misconceptions, emphasizing confidentiality, explaining the process, involving them in the decision-making, encouraging open communication, and offering reassurance and support. Each teen is unique, so it's important to tailor the preparation process to their individual needs. You may also want to consult with a Handspring licensed therapist for additional guidance on preparing a teen.