Navigating the Search for a Child Therapist on Long Island: A Parent’s Guide

Today’s children face an overwhelming amount of challenges that are unique to this generation: social media, constant distractions from our environment, family disruptions, social worlds merged with technology and much more. Today's parents did not grow up with these challenges and often struggle to understand the best ways to support their child, even when they have the best of intentions. This has led to a significant increase in the number of children seeking mental health support. In fact, a 2022 CDC report indicated that over 15% of children aged 3-17 had received mental health treatment in the past year. From 2011 to 2021, the rates of youth who persistently felt sad or hopeless increased from 21% to 29% for teen boys, and from 36% to 57% for teen girls. 1 This represents a notable rise over the last 10-15 years; a trend that is clearly reflected in communities across Long Island. Trends contributing to this increased demand for mental health support include:

• Increased Awareness and Reduced Stigma: There's a growing understanding of mental health issues in children, and the stigma associated with seeking help is decreasing, encouraging more Long Island families to pursue treatment. 

  
  

• Social Media Impact: The pervasive nature of social media exposes children to cyberbullying, unrealistic comparisons, and constant social pressure, which can negatively impact their mental well-being.

  
  

• Academic and Societal Pressures: Children on Long Island and nationwide face immense pressure to succeed academically and navigate complex social dynamics, leading to increased stress and anxiety.

  
  

• Family Dynamics: Changes in family structures, economic uncertainties, and parental stress can also contribute to children's mental health challenges.

  
  

• Accessibility of Information: The internet provides more information about mental health conditions, leading to greater self-identification and a desire for professional help.

  
  

Finding the right therapist for your child is certainly a challenge that should be undertaken with great care. With all a multitude of options across Long Island, how do you know who to choose?

How Can You Find The Right Fit For Your Child?

Referrals 

The first step should be to reach out to anyone in your social or familial circle that has ever worked with a youth therapist. Your child may be experiencing similar issues to that of someone else’s child, and if someone you personally know and trust can vouch for a professional they have experience with, this will save you a lot of time scouring the internet looking for a place to start.

Another healthy option may be to consult with your child’s school psychologist, social worker or guidance counselor. Experienced school counselors can often provide resources and referrals to reputable child and adolescent therapists in your area.

Ask Questions

When you’ve found someone to contact, it is advised to ask some very important questions. Some of the answers you seek may be published on the therapist’s website or online profile, so try and research their online presence before making the first call. 

Some good questions to ask are:

• What is the therapist’s background and training working with children? 

• How long have they been in practice?  

• Do they specifically work with children your child's age?  

• How often do they meet with parents? 

• Will they be in contact with your child’s teacher or guidance counselor? 

• What are their thoughts about medication? 

It is imperative to ask these questions and come to understand the values, experience and training the professional holds.

Find a Specialty Right for Your Child  

Counselors employ a number of different strategies depending on age and what exact issues the child is facing. For example, Play Therapy involves toys, action figures, games, and art to help small children express themselves and describe their concerns. This seems to work best for pre-K or elementary school-aged children who struggle with emotional problems. Then there’s Group Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Family Therapy, and Behavioral Therapy, all of which use different purposes and methods to produce specific results.

Most importantly, find someone you and your child trust. Without a strong bond of trust, how can you or your child fully allow the professional to help? Being knowledgeable about a therapist’s speciality, values, and space will help you make an informed decision and put your family on the road to mental health and harmony.

Above all, your involvement is crucial to your child's treatment. You understand your child best and can discern who would be a good fit for them. Stay engaged with their treatment and discuss it with your child. A parent's participation always plays a critical role in a child’s therapy experience, especially with younger children, but it remains essential regardless of age. You should and must be involved.

Have more questions? Our expert clinicians are available to discuss any further concerns you may have. We have many clinicians who specialize in working with children and teens right here on the North Shore of Long Island. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation. 

Written by Founder and Director, Gordon Gooding, LCSW and Lauren Gooding

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Watch Our Video:

What Parents Must Ask When Choosing a Child Therapist

Founder and Director, Gordon Gooding, LCSW shares a parent-focused guide on how to choose the right therapist for your child, whether you're on Long Island or searching anywhere in the U.S.

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1. CDC Youth Risk Behavior Survey, cited by NYS Office of Mental Health