What I Wish Every Parent Knew About Counseling for Children Ages 3–12
Perspectives from a Mid-Missouri Child Therapist
As a Licensed Master Social Worker at Aspire Counseling, I specialize in helping children and families navigate life’s challenges here in Columbia, Missouri. Whether your child is feeling overwhelmed by big emotions, adjusting to change, or just needs a little extra support, child counseling in Columbia, MO can be a safe and empowering space for growth.
Helping a Child Feel Better is a Team Effort
One of the biggest misconceptions about child counseling is that it’s just for the child. In reality, parents play a huge role in the process. You know your child best — their routines, strengths, and what’s been tough at home or school. My role as your child’s therapist is to partner with you to create a plan that works not just in the therapy room, but in everyday life.
When to Consider Counseling for Children
Families reach out for all sorts of reasons — a big move, divorce, bullying, anxiety, or changes in mood or behavior. There’s no “wrong” reason to seek help. Counseling offers tools, understanding, and support for both children and caregivers.
Progress looks different for every child, and it’s rarely a straight line. That’s why I take a person-centered approach — meeting each child and family where they are. We track progress through check-ins, surveys, and conversations, celebrating growth along the way and adjusting when needed (you can read more about how Aspire uses measurement-based care in counseling here).
If you’re not sure whether what you’re seeing is “typical worry” or something more, you may find this helpful: When Should I Worry About My Child’s Anxiety? A Decision Guide for Parents.
What to Expect in the First Few Counseling Sessions
The first few counseling sessions for children are all about building a safe space and connection. Trust is the foundation of therapy, so our child therapists spend time getting to know each other through conversation and play activities. I’ll also work with you to outline goals and talk through how we’ll track progress.
Parents play an important part here too — encouraging your child’s efforts (even when they seem small) can make a big difference. Let your child know that you’re proud of them for showing up, even if they’re unsure at first. When parents frame therapy as something positive and even fun — a space to learn about feelings and practice new skills — kids often start looking forward to it.
How I Approach Child Therapy
Each child is unique, so I tailor sessions to fit their developmental level, personality, and needs. I often use evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), mindfulness, and play or art-based interventions.
Younger children might express their emotions through play or drawing, while preteens might enjoy starting sessions with a board game before opening up about what’s been on their mind. The goal is always the same — helping children feel safe, understood, and equipped with tools to navigate their world.
(If your child’s anxiety is showing up at school, these two parent resources may be helpful: How to Calm a Child’s Anxiety: 7 Strategies for Parents and When School Refusal is Actually Anxiety: What Parents Need to Know.)
The Power of Consistency
One of the most rewarding parts of my job is watching children and families grow together. I’ve seen kids who once struggled with trauma or behavior challenges learn to regulate their emotions, reconnect with loved ones, and thrive at home and in school. Progress takes time, but with consistency and support, lasting change is absolutely possible!
Begin Child Counseling in Columbia, Missouri
If you’re thinking about counseling for your child, I’d love to connect with you. I offer free 30-minute consultations to help parents learn what therapy could look like for their family. Together, we can create a plan that helps your child feel heard, supported, and confident.
You can learn more or schedule a consultation by contacting us online or calling (573) 328-2288.
If you’re coming in person, you can see details about our Columbia location here: Our Counseling Office.
Additional Services at Aspire Counseling
Aspire Counseling offers therapy for individuals, teens, college students, and adults in Missouri, with in-person sessions in Columbia and Lee’s Summit as well as online therapy statewide. Our services include trauma therapy, EMDR, trauma therapy intensives, counseling for survivors of sexual assault, anxiety therapy, depression counseling, caregiver stress support, LGBTQ+ affirming therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). To learn more about mental health topics, coping strategies, and how therapy can support you or your family, check out our blog for more helpful resources and insights.
About the Author
My name is Madison Leatherman and I am a Licensed Master Social Worker in the state of Missouri, currently receiving clinical supervision under Kristi Sveum, LCSW. I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). I typically use TF-CBT when working with children and families with trauma backgrounds.
Over the past few years, I’ve worked in a school and with children in enhanced foster care. These experiences have fueled my passion for helping kids and families grow through life’s challenges. I enjoy working with young children because of their creativity, honesty, and resiliency. Working with this population reminds me that even the small moments hold power. I find it incredibly rewarding that caregivers trust me to work with their families on their personal healing journey.
