Child Therapy
Therapy for Children in Annapolis, Maryland Struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, & More
Children Face Unique Emotional Challenges
It can be difficult to watch your child struggle with emotions they can’t fully understand or express. You may notice your child acting out at school, becoming more withdrawn, or suddenly losing interest in activities they used to enjoy. Perhaps they seem overly worried, afraid, or sad, but can’t communicate why. Maybe your child has trouble making or keeping friends, or they’ve been having more conflicts at home. These changes can be stressful and confusing for both you and your child, and you may feel unsure of how to help them cope with these challenges.
Regardless of what specific issues your child is facing, you’re likely seeking support that can help them better manage their emotions and behaviors. Many children in Maryland experience similar difficulties as they navigate growing up in a fast-paced, often overwhelming world. Unfortunately, it’s common for kids to feel misunderstood, and for parents to feel frustrated or overwhelmed. Child therapy can provide a safe space for your child to explore their feelings, learn new coping skills, and gain tools to manage their emotions more effectively. Our Maryland child therapists are here to guide both you and your child through this process.
About Our Child Therapy:
Who is this therapy for?
Children (ages 3 and older) struggling with mental health or developmental issues.
What concerns do we address?
We help children learn to navigate anxiety, mood swings, difficulties at school, issues socializing, family changes, anger, and more.
What does child therapy involve?
We may use CBT, DBT, play therapy, and other modalities to help children explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, identify triggers, address negative patterns, and rediscover calm. We also believe in parent or family involvement to aid in the integration process.
Other General Info
We accept some insurance. We offer virtual & in-person options. We are located in Annapolis, Maryland.
How Does Child Therapy Work?
Child therapy is designed to meet kids where they are. Through age-appropriate approaches like play, creative expression, and gentle conversation, therapists help children safely explore their feelings and experiences. At Annapolis Counseling Center, we take a holistic approach, looking beyond surface behaviors to understand the emotions and patterns underneath. We also partner with caregivers to ensure children feel supported both in and outside of sessions.
How Can Therapy Help My Kid?
Therapy can help your child better understand and manage big emotions like anxiety, anger, sadness, or frustration. They’ll learn healthy coping skills, improve communication, and build confidence in navigating challenges at school, at home, and in relationships. Over time, therapy can strengthen emotional resilience, helping your child feel more secure, understood, and empowered.
Is Therapy Right for My Kid?
If you’re noticing changes in your child’s mood, behavior, or ability to cope—or if something just doesn’t feel quite right—therapy may be a supportive next step. Your child doesn’t need to be in crisis to benefit. If they’re struggling with big feelings, social challenges, life transitions, or stress, therapy can provide a safe, nurturing space to help them grow and thrive.
Wondering What the Therapy Process Looks Like? We Got You.
1. Intake
Your kid’s first session is a chance to get comfortable and talk about what’s been feeling heavy or overwhelming. Their therapist will learn about their experiences, daily life, and goals, while also answering any questions you have about how therapy works.
2. Assessment
As sessions continue, their therapist works to understand the emotions, patterns, stressors, and history contributing to their concerns. This stage helps clarify what’s fueling their symptoms and guides a personalized treatment plan.
3. Treatment
Sessions focus on helping your kid build practical tools to manage emotions, reduce stress, and shift unhelpful patterns. Depending on their needs, therapy may include talk‑based approaches, mindfulness strategies, or skills that support healthier thinking and coping.
4. Integration
Over time, your kid will begin applying what they’re learning in real‑life situations. This stage supports building confidence, emotional awareness, and more balanced ways of responding to challenges.
5. Follow-Up and Ongoing Support
As their needs evolve, therapy may shift toward maintaining progress, strengthening skills, or addressing new concerns. Some continue with regular sessions, while others check in as needed for ongoing support.
FAQs about Child Therapy
How do I know if my child really needs therapy?
If your child is experiencing ongoing changes in mood, behavior, sleep, school performance, or relationships, therapy may be helpful. You don’t have to wait for a crisis—early support can make a meaningful difference. If something feels “off” or your child seems overwhelmed by big emotions, it’s okay to seek guidance.
What happens during a child therapy session?
Sessions are tailored to your child’s age and needs. Younger children often express themselves through play, art, or storytelling, while older children may engage in more direct conversation. The goal is to create a safe space where your child feels comfortable exploring feelings and building healthy coping skills.
Will I be involved in my child’s therapy?
Yes. While your child has their own space to express themselves, caregiver involvement is an important part of the process. Therapists provide guidance, feedback, and practical tools to help you support your child at home and strengthen family communication.
How long does child therapy usually last?
The length of therapy depends on your child’s needs and goals. Some children benefit from short-term support around a specific challenge, while others may need longer-term care. We regularly check in on progress and adjust the plan to ensure therapy continues to meet your child’s needs.
Sources
- Bhattacharya, Shalini, et al. “The Effect of Cognitive Behavioral Interventions Applied to Children: A Meta-Analytic Evaluation.” Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy, 2024, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0882596324004652
- Dickson, Rebecca-Lee Kuhnert, Cassie H. Lavell, and Ronald M. Rapee. “Impact of Psychotherapy for Children and Adolescents with Anxiety and Related Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Clinical Child and Family Psychology Review, 2022, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10567-022-00402-7
- Wang, Zhen, et al. “Comparative Effectiveness and Safety of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Pharmacotherapy for Childhood Anxiety Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” JAMA Pediatrics, vol. 171, no. 11, 2017, https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/fullarticle/2650801
MAKE THE FIRST MOVE TO GET STARTED
Fill Out The Form
Complete our online form to provide initial details about your needs and challenges.
Free Consultation
Schedule a consultation to discuss personalized therapy options and create a tailored plan.
Begin Sessions
Begin regular therapy sessions designed to help you improve your relationship.
Address
147 Old Solomons Island Rd Suite 303, Annapolis, MD 21401
Hours
Mon-Fri: 8:00am - 8:00pm
Sat-Sun: By Appointment Only