While You Wait

You decided to seek mental health therapy for your child, but now you may be waiting for weeks or even months before the first appointment. This time can be truly stressful and, as a caregiver, you may feel powerless. However, there are some things you can start doing now to help your child and your family.

Here are some ideas of where to begin.

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4 Ways to Support a Child While Waiting to Start Therapy

Waiting to start mental health therapy while a child is experiencing difficulties is tough on the family and the child. You can show your support and care through continued conversations with your child.

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5 Skills From Therapy to Try at Home

Did you know that some mental health therapies are all about teaching children skills to cope and manage strong emotions or difficult situations? While not a replacement for therapy, there are strategies and skills you can start trying while you wait to start therapy to support your child.

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Self-Care for Parents of Children with Mental Health Needs

Taking time to care for yourself allows you to be mentally and physically prepared to care for your child. Whether you are a parent or a caregiver, use these tips to practice self-care so you can be at your best when your child needs you.

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Who to Talk to While You Wait to Start Mental Health Therapy

It is up to you to decide who you want to share information with when it comes to your child’s mental health and therapy. You might share with your child’s pediatrician, with their school, or with trusted family and friends.

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Types of Mental Health Therapy

Behavioral and mental health symptoms in children are often treated with evidence-based therapies. Evidence-based therapies or treatments are those that have been studied and found to be effective to help improve the lives of children, adolescents and their families.

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3 Ways to Prepare for Your Child’s Therapy

Scheduling an appointment for your child to see a mental health therapist is an important first step. While you wait for your first appointment, there are several things you can do to prepare yourself and your child to start treatment.

How Do I Partner with My Child's School?

Our experts help you create partnerships with personnel at your child's school to help support their educational needs.

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IEPs, 504 Plans and FBAs Explained

Students who have a hard time at school may benefit from programs designed to help meet their educational needs or learning styles. The most common offered are 504 plans, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs).

While You Wait