CHILD THERAPY SERVICES IN WESTPORT, CT

Supporting Your Child’s Emotional Growth & Well-being

Helping Your Child Thrive Emotionally

At Mindflow Therapy, we understand that children face unique challenges as they grow and develop. Whether it’s coping with anxiety, adjusting to a new environment, or navigating family changes, children can often find it difficult to express their emotions in ways that make sense to adults. Our child therapy services are designed to support your child in overcoming these challenges and developing the emotional resilience they need to thrive.

Our experienced therapists create a safe and welcoming space for your child to explore their feelings and behaviors. Using a variety of therapeutic techniques, we help children better understand their emotions, build self-esteem, and improve their social skills. Through play therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and other child-centered approaches, we provide the tools your child needs to successfully manage difficult situations and grow emotionally.

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How Therapy Can Help Your Child

Therapy can provide significant benefits for children facing a range of emotional or behavioral struggles. It offers them a safe space to express themselves freely without fear of judgment, helping them to gain a better understanding of their feelings and behaviors. In therapy, children are encouraged to develop coping strategies, emotional regulation skills, and healthy communication techniques, empowering them to manage life’s challenges effectively.

Whether your child is dealing with anxiety, social difficulties, trauma, or behavioral issues, therapy can help them develop the tools necessary to overcome these obstacles. Our goal is to create a positive, empowering environment where your child feels supported and understood, leading to improved emotional well-being and a stronger sense of self. By working together with parents and caregivers, we ensure that therapy aligns with your child’s individual needs and helps them achieve long-term growth and success.

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Meet our Leading Adolescent Therapy Clinician

Kacey Gormley, LMSW, CCLS

I am a Licensed Master’s Level Social Worker that holds a certification in school social work and a Certified Child Life Specialist. I built my educational foundation with a degree in human development and family sciences from The University of Texas at Austin and began my career in the mental health field almost 20 years ago. I received my masters from Columbia University with a focus on family, youth and children services. I have had the honor of working in several notable hospital systems – Dell Children’s Medical Center, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Yale-New Haven Children’s Hospital and Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at NYU Langone – where I learned to ‘practice with a questioning attitude’. I believe that education is a lifelong pursuit that gives insight and perspective. I strive to be curious!

My approach is hands-on and developmentally appropriate. I work to build a connection that is strengths-based, goal-oriented and trauma-informed. My practice is influenced by the framework of CBT, Family Systems, and Play. My specialty is working with children, teens and parents experiencing anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, and school issues. Let me be that safe, supportive sounding board for you and your family; we can take this journey together.

Outside of work, I am active with my three young children; we love sports! We enjoy exploring museums, experience activities, and food adventures.

THERAPY FOR CHILDREN IN WESTPORT, CT

Understanding Your Child’s Emotional Needs

Signs That Your Child May Benefit from Therapy

Children may not always express their emotions verbally, but certain behaviors and changes in mood or actions can indicate they may need therapy to process their feelings and develop healthy coping skills

Changes in Behavior: Sudden shifts in behavior, such as increased irritability, anger, or withdrawal, can signal emotional struggles that your child may not be able to communicate.
Difficulty with School: A decline in academic performance or loss of interest in schoolwork may indicate underlying emotional challenges or stress.
Excessive Worry or Fear: If your child shows signs of excessive worry or fear about everyday situations, therapy can help them manage and overcome these feelings.
Social Challenges: Trouble interacting with peers, avoiding social situations, or having difficulty making friends may point to social anxiety or emotional difficulties.
Physical Symptoms: Frequent headaches, stomachaches, or other unexplained physical ailments can be signs of anxiety or emotional distress.

Frequently Asked Questions About Child Therapy

Find answers to common questions about how therapy can support your child’s emotional growth and well-being.

How do I know if my child needs therapy?

Signs that your child may benefit from therapy include changes in behavior, difficulty expressing emotions, withdrawal from friends and family, changes in academic performance, or signs of anxiety or depression. If you notice any of these signs, it may be helpful to consult with a therapist to determine whether therapy could support your child’s emotional development.

What happens during a therapy session for children?

In a typical therapy session, your child will engage in activities that may include talking, drawing, playing games, or using toys. These activities help your child express their emotions and practice coping skills in a safe, non-threatening environment. The therapist will guide your child through these activities while also building a trusting relationship to create a foundation for healing.

How involved will I be in my child's therapy?

As a parent or caregiver, your involvement in the therapy process is essential. We encourage communication with parents to understand your child’s progress and ensure that the strategies learned in therapy are reinforced at home. Regular updates from the therapist will help you stay informed and provide support in your child’s emotional journey.

How long will therapy take?

The length of therapy depends on your child’s individual needs and goals. Some children may experience improvements in just a few sessions, while others may benefit from ongoing therapy to address more complex issues. Your therapist will discuss an appropriate treatment plan and timeline based on your child’s progress.

Parental Involvement in Therapy

At Mindflow Therapy, we believe that the involvement of parents and caregivers is crucial to the success of therapy for children. We work closely with parents to ensure they understand their child’s therapeutic process, goals, and progress. Through regular communication and guidance, we help parents reinforce the strategies learned in therapy and create a supportive environment at home. Parental involvement helps to strengthen the work done in therapy and ensures that children continue to grow and heal even outside of sessions.

Therapy offers long-term benefits that extend beyond just resolving immediate issues. By addressing emotional struggles early, therapy can help children build emotional resilience, improve self-esteem, and develop essential coping skills that will serve them throughout their lives. With the right support, children can learn to manage stress, communicate more effectively, and foster positive relationships. These lifelong skills are invaluable as children continue to grow and navigate the challenges of adolescence and adulthood. At Mindflow Therapy, our goal is to help children not only heal but thrive in all areas of their lives.

Seeing Patients at
39 Sherman Court, 1st Floor
Fairfield, CT 06824