Counseling for kids and teens

More of our calls are about children right now than anything else. We see kids from age 6, often in Addie's Corner, our room for kids, and we work with parents alongside them.

Schedule online Help me choose a provider

What parents notice

Kids rarely say “I'm anxious.” It shows up sideways. Tap anything you've been seeing.

Tap anything you've been seeing.

This isn't a test, and it can't tell you what's going on. It's a way to notice. Nothing is saved or sent.

Their brain is still under construction

The feeling part of the brain forms first, and its first job is scanning for anything that might hurt. The thinking part develops slowly, and isn't fully built until the mid-twenties. When feelings take the driver's seat, the thinking part gets pushed to the back. Move the slider to see it.

Feeling part: fast, protectiveThinking part: still growing

Age

9

625+

This is a simplified picture, not a medical diagram. The point: calm the feeling part first, then reason.

What you say becomes what they believe

Core beliefs form from messages kids hear again and again. A passing comment, repeated, can become the story a child tells about themselves for decades. Pick one to see where it can lead.

    What it can become

    Try saying instead

    “I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”

    Psalm 139:14 (ESV)

    When a big feeling hits

    Kids can't think their way out of a feeling while the feeling part of the brain is driving. Calm comes first. Try four slow breaths together: in for four, hold for four, out slowly for six. Then name the feeling out loud. Naming it takes some of its power away.

    “You look really frustrated. I'm right here. Let's breathe first, then we'll figure it out.”

    Ready when you are

    How we work with kids and parents

    Every provider works from the Hope Method. With kids, we make it concrete, and we bring parents in.

    Schedule online How the Hope Method works

    “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company ruins good morals.’”

    1 Corinthians 15:33 (ESV)

    Where faith fits

    If your family would like faith to be part of your child's sessions, your provider will gladly include it, in words that fit their age. If you wouldn't, it won't come up.

    Either way, we'll help your child see what scripture says plainly: that they were made with care, and that they matter.

    What "spiritually informed" means

    Resources for parents

    Local places we point families to, grouped by what's going on: grief camps for kids, resilience programs, therapy through play and animals, and help for teens who need more support.

    See resources for parents When a child is grieving

    Getting started

    The practical details, and the questions people ask most.

    Cost
    $75For 50 minutes, paid at the appointment. The same for individuals, couples and families.
    Insurance
    Not acceptedNo superbills. Cash, check, card, and HSA or FSA cards all work.
    Where
    In person or telehealth3231 Washington Rd., or from home for most concerns.
    Getting in
    Usually this weekEvery provider is taking new clients. We try to see people the week they reach out.
    What ages do you see?

    Children from age 6, teens, and the parents who love them.

    Will I be in the room?

    Often, especially at first. We work with parents alongside their children, and coach you on how to help at home.

    What is Addie's Corner?

    Our room for kids, built to feel like a place a child wants to be.

    Is it the same price for a child's session?

    Yes. $75 for 50 minutes, the same for individuals, couples and families.

    Will faith be part of my sessions?

    Only if you want it to be. Our providers share a Christian worldview, and if you'd like prayer or scripture in your sessions, ask and your provider will gladly include it. If you wouldn't, it won't come up. Everyone is welcome here, whatever they believe.

    What happens in the first session?

    It's a conversation about what you need, not an intake. Afterwards you decide whether to keep going, with no commitment either way. If you continue, a few forms and some homework come through the client portal.

    Start wherever you are

    Book a first conversation. You can come on your own first if you'd like to talk before bringing your child.

    A provider laughing at a table of markers and picture books

    Book an appointment

    Sessions for kids 6 and up, teens and families, on Washington Road. Choose “I'm a new client” when you book.

    Schedule online Help me choose
    Chairs set in a circle in the group room

    Resources for families

    Camps, groups and programs around Augusta for kids and teens, for when a program can help alongside counseling.

    Parent resources

    Still unsure? Call the office at 762.328.4673.