FAQ

Getting Started With Child & Adolescent Therapy

Considering child & adolescent therapy? Here are answers to some of the most common questions about the process, what to expect, and how therapy can support you.
What Is Child & Adolescent Therapy?

Child and adolescent therapy is a specialized form of counselling designed to support children and teens as they navigate emotional, social, behavioural, academic, and mental health challenges.

Therapy provides a safe, supportive environment where young people can explore their thoughts and feelings, develop coping skills, strengthen relationships, and build confidence. Depending on the child’s age and needs, therapy may include conversation, play-based activities, skill-building exercises, or creative approaches tailored to their developmental stage.

The goal is to help children and teens better understand themselves, manage challenges more effectively, and thrive both at home and in everyday life.
How Is Child Therapy Different From Adult Therapy?

Children and teens process experiences differently than adults, which means therapy is often adapted to their age, developmental stage, and communication style.

Younger children may engage through play, games, storytelling, or creative activities, while adolescents often participate in more traditional talk therapy. Therapists also consider family dynamics, school environments, and developmental factors when supporting children and teens.
How Do I Know If My Child Needs Therapy?

Many parents wonder whether what their child is experiencing is part of typical development or a sign that additional support may be beneficial.

Therapy may be helpful if your child is experiencing:

  • Anxiety or excessive worry
  • Persistent sadness or low mood
  • Emotional outbursts or difficulty regulating emotions
  • School-related stress or avoidance
  • Social challenges or friendship difficulties
  • Behavioural concerns
  • Changes following a major life event
  • Low self-esteem or confidence
  • Grief and loss

You don’t need to wait until a situation feels severe before seeking support. Early intervention can often help children develop healthy coping skills before challenges become more significant.
What Are Signs My Teen May Be Struggling With Their Mental Health?

Adolescence can be a time of significant emotional, social, and developmental change. While ups and downs are normal, certain signs may indicate that additional support could be beneficial.

Some signs include:

  • Withdrawal from family and friends
  • Significant changes in mood
  • Loss of interest in activities they previously enjoyed
  • Increased irritability or anger
  • Changes in sleep or eating habits
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Increased anxiety or stress
  • Declining academic performance
  • Feelings of hopelessness or low self-worth

If you’re concerned about your teen’s well-being, speaking with a mental health professional can help determine whether therapy may be beneficial.
What Happens During a Child’s First Therapy Session?

The first session is focused on getting to know your child, understanding your concerns, and discussing goals for therapy.

Depending on your child’s age, the therapist may spend time speaking with both the child and caregiver, gathering information about family history, school experiences, strengths, and challenges.

The goal of the first session is to help everyone feel comfortable, establish a foundation for therapy, and begin developing a plan that supports your child’s needs.
Can Therapy Help With School Anxiety?

Yes. School-related anxiety is one of the most common reasons children and adolescents seek therapy.

Therapy can help children and teens better understand their anxiety, develop coping strategies, build confidence, improve emotional regulation, and gradually navigate situations that feel overwhelming.

Support may also involve collaboration with caregivers and schools when appropriate.
Is Child & Adolescent Therapy Only for Serious Mental Health Concerns?

Not at all.

Many children and teens attend therapy to build confidence, improve coping skills, navigate life transitions, strengthen relationships, or gain support through everyday challenges.

Therapy can be beneficial whether a child is experiencing a significant mental health concern or simply needs additional support during a difficult period of life. 🤍
Who Can Consent to Therapy for a Child or Teen in Quebec?

When seeking therapy for a child or adolescent, parents often have questions about consent, confidentiality, and who can make decisions about treatment. Understanding these guidelines can help families feel more confident when beginning the therapeutic process.

In Quebec, consent requirements vary depending on a child’s age and circumstances.

Children Under 14 years old.

For children under the age of 14, consent for therapy is generally provided by the child’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s).

At Jade Therapy, we typically require consent from all individuals who have legal authority to make healthcare decisions for the child. If there are custody agreements, court orders, or other legal considerations in place, we may request documentation to ensure we are following the appropriate guidelines.

Adolescents Aged 14 years old or Older
In Quebec, adolescents aged 14 and older can generally consent to their own mental health treatment.

This means that a teen may choose to access therapy independently and has greater rights regarding confidentiality and decision-making related to their care.

While parental involvement can often be beneficial, therapists work collaboratively with adolescents to determine what information may be shared and how caregivers can be appropriately involved in treatment.
How Does Confidentiality Work for Children and Teens?

Confidentiality is an important part of the therapeutic relationship and helps children and adolescents feel safe discussing their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

For younger children, parents are typically involved in treatment planning and progress discussions. However, therapists also strive to create a space where children can express themselves openly and honestly.

For adolescents, confidentiality is generally more extensive. Therapists may encourage open communication between teens and caregivers while also respecting the adolescent’s privacy and autonomy.
Are There Situations Where Confidentiality Cannot Be Maintained?

Yes. Like all healthcare professionals, therapists have legal and ethical obligations that may require them to break confidentiality in certain circumstances.

These situations may include:

  • Concerns about a person’s immediate safety
  • Risk of harm to oneself
  • Risk of harm to another person
  • Concerns about abuse, neglect, or maltreatment
  • Legal requirements imposed by the courts

If confidentiality limits become relevant, your therapist will discuss them openly and transparently.