Child Therapy in Dallas: Helping Kids Thrive at Sunrise Counseling
As parents, we all want our children to feel happy, confident, and supported. But sometimes, kids face challenges they can’t quite put into words. When that happens, child therapy can provide the safe space and professional guidance they need to work through big feelings, develop healthy coping skills, and grow in confidence.
At Sunrise Counseling in Dallas, we work with children of all ages to help them navigate life’s ups and downs — from everyday worries to more complex emotional challenges.
What Is Child Therapy Like?
Child therapy is not about a child lying on a couch talking for an hour. In fact, for younger children, therapy often looks like play, drawing, storytelling, or games. These activities aren’t just for fun — they’re tools therapists use to help children express themselves, practice problem-solving, and build emotional resilience.
For older children and teens, sessions may involve more direct conversations, role-playing, or learning specific skills to manage stress, communicate better, or handle conflict.
At Sunrise Counseling, our approach is:
Warm and welcoming — so your child feels safe and supported
Developmentally appropriate — matching activities and discussions to your child’s age
Collaborative — involving parents or caregivers in the process to support progress at home
Signs Your Child Might Benefit from Therapy
You don’t have to wait until a crisis to reach out. Some common signs that a child may benefit from therapy include:
Frequent emotional outbursts or mood swings
Persistent worries, fears, or sadness
Trouble sleeping or frequent nightmares
Difficulty adjusting to changes like a move, divorce, or new school
Avoiding friends, school, or activities they used to enjoy
Trouble concentrating or sudden drop in grades
Physical complaints (like headaches or stomachaches) without a clear medical cause
Withdrawal from family or becoming unusually clingy
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Therapy Isn’t Just for “Big Problems”
One of the biggest myths about therapy is that it’s only for when things are really bad. The truth? Therapy can be preventive — helping kids build coping skills before challenges grow bigger.
It can be helpful for:
Easing school-related anxiety
Supporting social skills and friendships
Building self-esteem and confidence
Helping with transitions (like starting school or welcoming a new sibling)
Guiding emotional regulation
When you start early, therapy can help your child feel more equipped to handle life’s challenges as they grow.
What Can Be Addressed in Child Therapy
Child therapy can support a wide range of needs, including:
Anxiety & stress — learning calming strategies and building resilience
Depression & low mood — fostering hope, connection, and joy
Behavior challenges — improving self-control, following rules, and problem-solving
Grief & loss — helping a child process and heal after the death of a loved one or pet
Family changes — adjusting to divorce, remarriage, or moving
Social skills — learning how to make friends, share, and work through conflicts
Still Have Questions?
It’s completely normal to feel unsure about starting therapy for your child. Many parents wonder what to expect or how to know if it’s the right step. To help, we’ve put together answers to some of the most common questions about child therapy at Sunrise Counseling.
Frequently Asked Questions About Child Therapy
1. How do I know if my child really needs therapy?
If you’ve noticed changes in your child’s mood, behavior, or school performance — or if your child seems to be struggling with worries, friendships, or transitions — therapy can be helpful. You don’t have to wait until things feel “serious” to reach out.
2. What happens during the first session?
The first session is about building comfort and trust. For younger children, this may look like play or drawing, while older kids might talk about their interests and daily life. Parents are often included to help set goals and share concerns.
3. Will I be involved in my child’s therapy?
Yes. Parent involvement is an important part of child therapy. While sessions focus on your child, therapists often check in with parents to share progress, offer strategies for home, and answer questions.
4. How long does therapy take?
Every child is different. Some children may benefit from just a few sessions, while others may continue for several months or longer. The length of therapy depends on your child’s needs and goals.
5. What issues can child therapy address?
Child therapy can help with anxiety, depression, grief, behavior challenges, self-esteem, school stress, family changes (like divorce or moving), and social skills. It can also help kids build coping skills for everyday life.
6. Is child therapy only for older kids?
Not at all. Therapists use age-appropriate approaches like play therapy for younger children, making therapy accessible and effective for kids as young as preschool age.
7. How do I talk to my child about starting therapy?
Keep it simple and reassuring. You might say, “We’re going to meet someone who helps kids with big feelings and helps families feel better.” Emphasize that therapy is a safe and supportive place, not a punishment.
Taking the First Step
If you’re wondering whether child therapy could help, chances are it’s worth exploring. At Sunrise Counseling in Dallas, we work closely with families to understand your child’s unique needs and create a supportive, personalized plan.
Your child doesn’t have to be in crisis to benefit from therapy — sometimes, the best time to start is before problems feel overwhelming.
Ready to learn more?
Contact Sunrise Counseling today to schedule a consultation and see how child therapy can help your child thrive.
1. Contact Sunrise Counseling
2. Meet with one of our caring therapists
Mental Health Services at Sunrise Counseling in Dallas, TX
Sunrise Counseling offers a variety of mental health services in our Dallas TX-based therapy office and offers telehealth therapy to those residing in Texas and Colorado. Mental health services we provide at Sunrise Counseling include: