Parenting today comes with so many joys—but let’s be honest, it also comes with its fair share of challenges. We all want the very best for our children, and sometimes that means knowing when a little extra support could make a difference. The truth is, recognizing when to reach out isn’t always easy. That’s why this guide was created—to offer families in the greater Saint John area a warm, practical resource filled with compassionate insight. Think of it as a gentle companion to help you notice early signs, trust your instincts, and feel confident about taking that next step toward support if your child needs it.
1. Recognizing Common Indicators That Therapy Could Help
Kids don’t always come right out and say when something’s wrong—but often, the clues show up in other ways. Shifts in their behavior, mood, or daily routines can be gentle signals that they may need a little extra support:
- Significant shifts in mood or behaviour: persistent sadness, anger, or heightened anxiety that lasts more than a few weeks.
- Difficulty with school or social exclusion: trouble concentrating, declining grades, or withdrawing from friends and activities.
- Sleep or eating disruptions: nightmares, resistance to bedtime, nighttime waking, sudden appetite changes.
- Frequent tantrums or aggression: behavior that seems out of proportion to the situation.
- Physical symptoms with no medical cause: headaches, stomachaches, or other complaints that appear linked to stress.
- Signs of trauma or grief: following changes like divorce, loss, or transitions such as migration or a new school.
These are not signs of failure—they’re clues that your child may benefit from someone trained to help them understand and manage what they’re experiencing.
2. Why a Local, Compassionate Approach Matters
At Kingsway Counselling, we believe healing happens when parents and children feel truly seen and supported. Our therapists are trained in child therapy, serving ages starting as young as 4 or 5 depending on the clinician (Kingsway Counselling). Whether your child is navigating anxiety, developmental changes, grief, or trauma, we’re here to walk alongside your family with warmth, compassion, and understanding.
3. How to Broach the Subject with Your Child
Opening the door to therapy can feel daunting. Consider these steps:
- Choose a calm, private moment—perhaps after school or during a quiet evening.
- Use simple, supportive language: “Sometimes we all need extra help when things feel big.”
- Normalize the experience: explain that therapy is a safe place for talking and feeling, just like going to the doctor for a check-up.
- Offer choices: let your child know they will always have a say—this helps build trust.
4. What to Expect at Kingsway Counselling
- Initial consultation: We’ll gently assess your child’s needs and match them with the right therapist—our “therapist match tool” helps personalize this process (Kingsway Counselling).
- Therapeutic approaches: From play-based techniques to cognitive-behavioral strategies, we tailor methods to your child’s age and needs, meeting them where they are at.
- Collaborative involvement: We will keep you informed, working together to support positive changes at home and school.
- Flexible support options: In-person sessions in Saint John and virtual sessions provide convenience and comfort.
5. When to Reach Out: Key Moments for Seeking Support
Consider therapy for your child when you notice:
- Changes that are intense and persistent—lasting several weeks.
- Disruption in school, friendships, or daily routines.
- Emotional or behavioural changes following a life event (e.g., move, loss, conflict).
- Signs of stress or worry that seem hard for them to manage alone.
Remember, getting support early can stop small struggles from growing bigger and gives children the tools to build resilience.
6. Beyond Kingsway: A Helpful External Resource
The Canadian Psychological Association offers a helpful guide for parents exploring whether their child might benefit from therapy—covering how to look for signs and how to find a good-fit therapist. It’s a valuable complement to the support we offer—and also supports our SEO through a relevant, authoritative external link.
Learn more here: Canadian Psychological Association – Finding a Psychologist for Children**
7. Next Steps You Can Take Today
- Visit our Child Therapy page to learn more about our offerings.
- Use our Therapist Match Tool to connect with the best-fit therapist—based on age, concerns, and goals (Kingsway Counselling).
- Reach out to book a consultation—in person or online, we’re here for your family.
Final Thoughts
Deciding to seek help for your child is a brave and caring step. At Kingsway Counselling, located right here in Saint John, we’re ready to welcome you with warmth, expertise, and a child-centered approach built on empathy. Let’s walk this path together—so your child can thrive today and beyond.
