Last updated on 11/11/08

How can kids benefit from psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is a form of psychiatric treatment that involves therapeutic conversations and interactions between a therapist and a child or family. Therapy can help kids develop problem-solving skills and teach them the value of seeking help. Therapists can help kids and families cope with stress and a variety of emotional and behavioral issues. A therapist may help a kid deal with test anxiety, bullying, peer pressure, or family issues. Sometimes when kids and teens are going through a rough time, they may find it easier to talk to a therapist; an unbiased third party who can sort out their feelings and help them find solutions to their problems. Although different types of therapy take different amounts of time, psychotherapy is not a quick fix or an easy answer. It is a complex and rich process that, over time, can reduce symptoms, provide insight, and improve a child or adolescent's functioning and quality of life.

In the Jewish Community

Psychotherapy designed specifically for the Jewish Community is readily available. Most major cities are populated by countless Jewish mental health professionals who practice in accordance with Jewish law. Even so, however, many people in the Jewish community still refrain from seeking the help that they need. They know that once they see a therapist, they will have to write it on school applications, dating profiles, and more. They will be looked upon as weird and abnormal; not a brave person who decided to seek help for their problem. Just like there is no stigma for a cancer treatment to receive chemotherapy, there should not be a stigma on those who see mental health professionals. Once mental health awareness is increased, the stigma for seeking help will be abolished and those in need of therapy will be able to get the help that they need.

Use the following links to educate yourself about psychotherapy. Learn about the different types of therapy available to children and find out how to find a mental health professional near you.

Frequently Asked Links

What is psychotherapy?

Why might psychotherapy be done?

Is psychotherapy effective with children?

Why might talking about his or her feelings help my child?

What are some reasons why teens might go to therapists?

What are some of the different types of psychotherapy?

How do I find the right therapist for my child?

How can I help my child adjust to seeing a mental health professional?

How can I help my child get the most out of therapy?

Does my health insurance cover psychotherapy services?

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Resources

Mental Health Resources for the Jewish Community

Compiled by Rabbi Yakov Horowitz

National Mental Health Association (NMHA)
http://www.nmha.org
NMHA works to improve the mental health of all Americans through advocacy, education, research, and service.

National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI)
http://www.nami.org
NAMI offers resources and help for those with a mental illness.

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
http://www.afsp.org
This group is dedicated to advancing the knowledge of suicide and the ability to prevent it.

American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP)
http://www.aacap.org
AACAP offers up-to-date information on child and adolescent development and issues.

Center for Eating Disorders
http://www.eating-disorders.com
St. Joseph Medical Center's Center for Eating Disorders offers news, information, and support. Call: (410) 427-2100

Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
http://www.dbsalliance.org
The mission of this group is to educate patients, families, professionals, and the public about depressive and manic-depressive illnesses.

American Psychological Association (APA)
http://www.apa.org
The APA provides information and education about a variety of mental health issues for people of all ages.

American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
http://www.aap.org
The AAP is committed to the health and well-being of infants, adolescents, and young adults. The website offers news articles and tips on health for families.

Child & Adolescent Bipolar Foundation
http://www.bpkids.org
This organization offers information, resources, and a community center that includes online support groups.

National Association of School Psychologists (NASP)
http://www.nasponline.org
The mission of the NASP is to promote educationally and psychologically healthy environments for all children and youth by implementing research-based programs that prevent problems, enhance independence, and promote optimal learning.