This is a great question. We’ve written a list of common symptoms that would help parents know if their child needs play therapy. Click here to read more.
In general, it can be assumed that if you are already reading this page, you are probably concerned about your child’s wellbeing. You may be wondering if their behaviour is ‘normal’ or not. Your seeking of information is a really positive step. And your parental instinct telling you something is wrong is probably a sign that something is wrong (but don’t get too worried – play therapy is not meant only for ‘extreme’ or ‘lost causes’!).
To give a brief answer, however, you’ll know your child needs therapy when their behaviour becomes abnormal for their age. If they have been toilet trained and are now wetting the bed, then something may not be right. If that, combined with other symptoms such as being afraid to go to school, or using extreme rebellion towards authority are making your daily life worse, it’s probably time to see a therapist.
Remember that all kids participate in some form of misconduct. It’s their job to do so as kids! Kids cry, kids have accidents, and kids don’t always listen to their parents. They’re still learning what this world expects of them.
But if the intolerant behaviour is preventing you or your child from living a normal day-to-day life, that may be a clear sign that something regarding their emotional or mental state needs more thorough attention.
My offer of a free 15-minute consultation may help to answer this more definitively for you. I encourage you to take me up on that offer!