Child Psychotherapy

What is child psychotherapy?

Child psychotherapy is mental health treatment that helps children understand and manage their feelings, behaviors, and relationships.

Harlem Family Services offers therapy that supports a child’s emotional and social development, especially during tough times such as trauma, loss, family changes, or school challenges.

Licensed professionals guide therapy sessions, which may involve talking, play, art, or other activities, depending on the child’s age and needs.

Who can benefit from child psychotherapy?

Any child who is struggling emotionally, socially, or behaviorally may benefit from therapy. The Harlem Family Services team works with children affected by the following:

• Trauma
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Family separation
• Foster care
• Adjustment to a new country or school

Services are available to all children, particularly those from underserved communities.

Harlem Family Services also welcomes parents, caregivers, and educators into the process because supporting a child involves the entire network around them. They offer parent groups and regular check-ins to help families stay connected, understand their child’s progress, and support them at home.

How does psychotherapy work for younger children?

Young children often can’t fully express themselves through words. That’s why therapists use play therapy and creative activities to help children express their feelings in a safe and supportive way. Through play, children can process difficult emotions, work through fears, and learn new ways to cope and interact with others.

A method that can be especially helpful for young children is reflective network therapy, developed by Dr. Gilbert Kliman, a distinguished psychiatrist at Harlem Family Services.

What is reflective network therapy (RNT)?

RNT is designed for preschoolers who experience emotional or developmental challenges. Instead of removing the child from class, the therapist joins them in the classroom during regular activities. The therapist, teacher, parents, and peers become part of the child’s support network.

RNT uses the child’s real-time interactions, such as playing with classmates or responding to classroom events, as opportunities for therapy. The child learns and grows socially and emotionally in the same space where they live and learn every day.

Since 1965, RNT has helped more than 2,000 children recover from trauma, improve attachment and communication, and thrive at home and in school. The aim is to help each child feel safe, supported, and empowered to grow into their best self.

To discuss how your child could benefit from psychotherapy, call Harlem Family Services or book an appointment online today.