Childhood and adolescence are full of transitions - emotionally, socially, and developmentally. While every young person’s path looks different, some seasons bring more overwhelm than others. Whether your child is struggling with emotions, relationships, or daily routines, therapy for children and teens can help them feel more confident, connected, and understood.
At Balanced Wellness, we offer therapy for kids and teens ages 5–19, along with support for the parents and caregivers who love them. Our therapists are trained in approaches like CBT, TF-CBT, and ADHD symptom management, and sessions are always personalized to your child’s age and needs.
Therapy for Children and Teens
Compassionate Support for Kids, Teens, and Families
How to Know When It’s Time for Therapy
Every child experiences ups and downs, but when emotional struggles start to affect daily life, relationships, or your child’s sense of self, therapy can help. You don’t have to wait for a crisis. Therapy can be a proactive step in supporting your child’s mental health and overall development.
Signs Your Child or Teen May Need Therapy
Younger Children (approx. ages 5–12)
Frequent tantrums or emotional outbursts
Trouble following routines (brushing teeth, bathing, getting dressed)
Difficulty sleeping or changes in appetite
Refusal to go to school or participate in activities
Difficulty managing attention or focus
Clinginess or increased separation anxiety
Repetitive worries or fears
Regression in behavior (e.g., bedwetting, baby talk)
Teens and Adolescents (approx. ages 12–19)
Mood swings or increased irritability
Withdrawal from friends or family
Changes in sleep, appetite, or energy levels
Decline in school performance or motivation
Negative self-talk or low self-esteem
Self-harm or talk of suicide
Questions or distress around identity or sexuality
Sudden changes in social groups or behavior
Looking for more guidance? Explore our blog for helpful articles and mental health tips for families.
A Safe Space for Emotional Growth and Family Healing
Therapy looks different for every child because every child is different. That’s why our therapists take the time to understand your child’s unique personality, challenges, and strengths. Whether your child is working through anxiety, attention difficulties, trauma, or family stress, we’ll create a space that feels safe, engaging, and empowering.
We work with children and teens using developmentally appropriate tools that may include talking, games, art, and mindfulness. Parents are often included in the process — sometimes through updates, sometimes through joint sessions — to ensure your whole family is supported.
What therapy might include:
Play-based or creative approaches to help younger children express emotions
CBT, TF-CBT, and mindfulness for emotional regulation and resilience
Skill-building for attention, communication, and identity support
One-on-one sessions, with family involvement when beneficial
Our therapists are trained in evidence-based approaches and work collaboratively with families to adjust sessions based on age, goals, and attention span.
Therapy Options That Fit Your Family’s Needs
We understand that convenience and flexibility matter — especially when you're navigating the emotional needs of a child or teen. That’s why we offer both in-person and virtual therapy, depending on your location and preferences.
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In-Person Sessions
We offer child and adolescent therapy in:
Ridgeland, South Carolina & Wilmington, North Carolina -
Virtual Sessions
Online throughout Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida
Our team will work with you to determine what options are available in your area and which therapist is the best fit for your child’s age, needs, and personality.
Improving Family Dynamics and Communication
Children don’t grow in isolation — they grow in families. That’s why therapy at Balanced Wellness often includes support for the whole family. When communication breaks down or conflict becomes a pattern, family therapy can help restore connection, trust, and understanding.
Whether we meet with you one-on-one, together with your child, or through family-focused sessions, we’re here to help your family move forward — together.
Your concerns are real. Your child’s experience matters. And support is here when you’re ready.
Our therapists use a family systems approach to help you:
Understand what your child is experiencing beneath the behavior
Build skills for calmer, more effective communication
Realign roles, boundaries, and expectations as your child grows
Navigate challenges like sibling conflict, co-parenting stress, or emotional shutdown
Explore more support options:
Why Choose Balanced Wellness for Child and Teen Therapy?
Choosing the right therapist for your child is a big decision, and we don’t take that lightly. At Balanced Wellness, we’re not just here to offer support; we’re here to build trust, create safety, and help your family grow stronger together.
Here’s what sets us apart:
Specialized training in child and adolescent development:
Our therapists use evidence-based tools like CBT, TF-CBT, and ADHD symptom support tailored to your child’s age and needs.Therapy that’s creative, age-appropriate, and collaborative
From play-based strategies for younger kids to open conversations with teens, sessions are designed to help each child feel safe and understood.Family-centered care
We keep you involved in ways that support healing, through updates, joint sessions, and collaborative planning.Flexible care options
In-person and virtual therapy across SC, NC, VA, GA, and FL — so support is always within reach.A team that truly cares
Meet our therapists and see who’s here to support your child’s growth and your family’s well-being.
We’re here to help your child grow, heal, and thrive — with you by their side.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sometimes! It depends on your child’s age, comfort level, and the goals of therapy. Most sessions are one-on-one with the therapist, but for younger children or specific concerns, we may include parents in part or all of the session. In family therapy, you’ll be in the room together.
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Sessions typically last between 50 and 60 minutes, but we adjust based on your child’s needs. Some kids — especially those who are younger or struggle with attention — may benefit from shorter sessions (30–45 minutes). We’ll help you find the best fit.
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That’s exactly what therapy can help clarify. We offer free 15-minute consultation calls so you can share your concerns and learn whether therapy is recommended for your child’s situation. Fill out our form to get started.
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Yes — in a collaborative way. While your child deserves a private, safe space to express themselves, we also know that your involvement matters. Your therapist will keep you updated on progress and general themes, and can meet with you separately when needed.
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This is common, and we approach it with patience and care. Therapy is never a punishment. We recommend introducing it as a safe space to talk and be supported. If your child is hesitant, we may start slow or support you, the parent, in learning tools to help at home.
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Sessions are personalized based on age and needs. For younger kids, this might involve play, art, and games. Teens may engage more through conversation, creative expression, or skill-building activities. The therapist’s goal is always the same: helping your child feel safe, seen, and supported. Get to know our team.
Support for Your Child. Support for You.
You don’t have to figure this out alone, and your child doesn’t have to navigate their struggles without help. Therapy can be a powerful way to foster healing, resilience, and growth for your entire family.