Youth/Child Counselors
There are a variety of reasons that a person may seek the services of a counselor. Those reasons include recovering from emotional trauma, to overcome depression or anxiety, or just to have someone trusted that they can talk freely to. And this is not just true for adults. In fact, minors are seeking out and utilizing the services of certified counselors more often now than at any other time in history. Youth/child counselors serve precisely the same function as any other counselors – they are there to listen and offer guidance, and to help their patients work through their emotional issues to become more well rounded and mentally functional.
Many times, parental concern is the catalyst that precipitates a child’s first visit to a youth/child counselor. Sometimes parents become concerned over sudden changes in behavior, dropping grades, sudden introversion, suspects drug use, or doesn’t feel as though their child is behaving “normally.” Alternatively, sometimes another trusted adult (such as a teacher, clergy member, or other family member) will notice changes or abnormalities in a child’s behavior, and will suggest that the child visit a child/youth counselor. Additionally, if a child gets involved with the court system (either the criminal system due to illegal activities or a family court as the result of suspected abuse or other domestic issues) it is common practice for the presiding judge to order the child to be seen by a youth/child counselor.
For many minors, the act of confiding in an unknown adult can be something they have never considered. Often at the counselor’s office against their will, it is not uncommon for children to be sullen and/or withdrawn for their first several counseling sessions. However, youth/child counselors are specifically trained to handle the proclivities of children, and generally go into the counseling of their young patients with the expectations that they will have to work to win their trust. Once the youth/child counselor has attained a level of trust and even potentially friendship (in the child’s point of view), however, the child generally opens up virtually completely, and the guidance they receive from their counselor can benefit them immensely, both in their childhood and throughout their life.
Some parents are hesitant to send their child to a youth/child counselor because they feel as though involving their child in any type of therapy may lead them to be stigmatized socially. While it is true that mental health and wellbeing is still considered to be pseudo healthcare by some, the general consensus is that being mentally healthy and emotionally stable is essential for a happy, healthy life. And as parents, it is our responsibility to ensure that our kids get off to the best start possible. If that means that they end up spending an hour or two a week in a counselor’s office, then that is time well spent.
Finally, when considering youth/child counselors for your child, it is essential that you consider the expense. While some health insurance companies will cover the cost (at least in part) others will not. If you have been putting off getting counseling for your child because you are worried about the potential cost, it is important to remember that there are resources available that can help to defer some of the expense associated with counseling. In fact, many parents have found quality free or low cost child/youth counseling through their religious organizations. Additionally, many community youth groups offer counseling services for little to no cost. Do not put off addressing your child’s mental health needs for financial reasons. There are many ways to reduce or even eliminate your out of pocket expenses when it comes to sending your child to a child/youth counselor. Do not wait until your child’s situation becomes critical to seek the help you need.