Pediatric Therapy

Pediatric therapy gives your child the opportunity to overcome certain challenges in life and thrive. At Guiding Balance in Patchogue, New York, the team of medical professionals provides compassionate, customized, personal care for children with superior skill. To learn more, reach out today by phone to request an appointment.

What is pediatric therapy?

Pediatric therapy refers to a specialized form of therapy or treatment designed to address the physical, emotional, developmental, and psychological needs of children and adolescents between the ages of five and 18. This type of therapy aims to help young individuals navigate various challenges and issues they may face during their formative years. 

Pediatric therapy encompasses the following:

Youth therapy

Youth therapy is a form of pediatric therapy tailored specifically for children aged 5-12. It focuses on addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, academic difficulties, social skills, and emotional regulation in younger children. 

It may involve techniques such as play therapy, art therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and family therapy to help children express their thoughts and feelings in developmentally appropriate ways.

Adolescent therapy

Adolescent therapy is designed for teenagers aged 13-18. It aims to address the unique challenges that come with adolescence, like identity formation, peer pressure, substance misuse, self-esteem issues, and academic stress.

It often involves talk therapy, CBT, dialectical-behavior therapy (DBT), and group therapy to help teenagers develop coping skills, improve self-awareness, and manage the complexities of adolescence.

Parental or guardian support

Parental or guardian support involves helping parents or caregivers understand and support their child’s emotional and behavioral needs. It may include psychoeducation, family therapy, and guidance on effective parenting techniques.

Each of these plays a unique role in a child’s overall well-being.

Why might my child need pediatric therapy?

There are numerous reasons a child may benefit from pediatric therapy, including:

• Behavioral issues (aggressive behavior, defiance, or frequent tantrums)
• Emotional challenges (anxiety, depression, mood swings, or excessive fears)
• Academic struggles
• Social difficulties 
• Trauma (experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event that affects their mental well-being)
• Developmental delays (such as delayed speech or motor skills, autism spectrum disorder)
• Family changes (adjusting to divorce, loss of a loved one, or other major life changes)

If you have a child who struggles with any of the above, bring them in to see a Guiding Balance medical professional for an evaluation. They can help.

How does pediatric therapy work?

Pediatric therapy begins with a Guiding Balance provider assessing your child’s specific needs, strengths, and challenges. Next, they offer a personalized treatment plan that may include individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy, or a combination of these.

To request an evaluation for your child, call the office today.