Our Services
Kids, Teens & Family in Gainesville, Florida
“The way we talk to our children becomes their inner voice.” – Peggy O’Mara
Navigating the ups and downs of childhood, adolescence and growing families is tough! The world changes quickly, and young people face challenges that we adults never experienced. In some cases, the tumultuous path of growth is simply spirited and normal, while in other cases, there are developments that are concerning and need more urgent intervention. Whether for a crisis or for enhancing growth and connection, our Wolcott Counseling & Wellness therapists can help. We offer you and your child the most supportive, affirming, informed help to move through challenges and stay connected.
How do you know if a child or teen needs help? If your family is going through a significant transition or trauma, such as divorce, violence, natural disaster, blending families, loss of a parent or beloved pet, or moving, counseling can help. But sometimes the need for therapy is more hidden.
These are the signs we recommend looking for:
- Significant change in sleep habits or mood
- Isolating from family and friends
- Concerning use of substances (including food)
- Restricting food intake
- Prolonged sadness, anxiety, or expressions of guilt
- Performatively “perfect” behavior
- Chronic physical complaints
- Increased, ongoing irritability
Therapy for children & teens can help with:
Low self esteem
Anxiety and depression
Anxiety and depression
Identity struggles
Friendships and relationships
Academic difficulties
Adjustments to family changes
Trauma recovery
How We Work With You
We listen carefully to your concerns and to your child’s/teen’s expression of the problem. We thoroughly discuss how we plan to work with you and your child, and answer your questions. We do all we can to create a safe environment for your child/teen, and we take the time to develop a trusting relationship. Using age appropriate techniques and interventions, we support the development of insight, helpful tools, and healing.
Our therapists use a humanistic, person-centered, strengths based approach to help your child/teen and you. Depending on what age and what is needed, we may recommend play therapy, motivational interviewing, CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) or other evidence based techniques. Along the way, we will revisit goals and communicate clearly to clarify the treatment. Please visit our list of therapists here to choose a therapist that you feel will work best with you and your family.
Our goal is to help both you and your child/teen feel safe and supported while working with us, for your child to develop an understanding of their strengths and unique qualities, and for both of you to leave therapy feeling confident and with tools you can keep using.