Therapy For Children After Divorce

Being a child can be anxiety-inducing. School, family arguments, and issues with friends can make a kid stressed out. When their parents divorce, the stress can become intense.

A divorce can seem as though a child’s world is falling apart. Their household becomes two as the family splits up. They may feel more aggressive and unable to cope with the pressures of school.

You may be seeking therapy to deal with your emotions following the divorce. Have you considered getting therapy for the kids as well? Therapy can help your child process their feelings and feel better about the changes that are ahead. They can navigate school and home life with ease.

If you have never been in therapy before, you may have concerns about the process and what to expect. Here are some considerations to keep in mind.

Look for the Signs

Not every child needs therapy nor are they always ready for it. Look for signs that they are struggling, such as regressive behaviors (such as tantrums or bedwetting), increased crying episodes, increased clinginess, feelings of sickness, and blaming themselves for the divorce. If you have tried to help your child feel better, but to no avail, then it may be time for therapy.

Talk to Your Own Therapist

If you have a therapist, they may be able to help. Let them know about the situation and they may be able to give you tips to diffuse it. They can assist you in communicating with your child so you can learn more about how they are feeling and what they are experiencing.

Make Sure the Other Parent is on Board

If you think therapy may be helpful for your child, make sure the other parent agrees. You don’t want to do anything behind their back, especially when it comes to parenting. Get recommendations, do some online research, and look for the right therapist together. You may want to choose several therapists and meet with them to find the right one for your child.

Keep the Therapist Out of the Litigation

The therapist is there to help your child with their emotional issues. Therapists do not have law backgrounds and education, so don’t make it out to be about your divorce battle. Do not badmouth the other parent or react with anger or hostility. All this does is distract the therapist and waste time and money. Focus on helping your child understand their behavior and navigate their feelings.

Seek Legal Help 

During and after a divorce, parents need to be mindful of how their children are acting and feeling. Children can get anxious and depressed, but therapy can be helpful.

Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney Edward J. Jennings, P.A. can help you and your family divorce with less stress. We have resources that can help. Schedule a consultation today by calling 954-764-4330 or filling out the online form.

Resource:

centerforanxietydisorders.com/divorce-therapy-for-children/