Why Summer Is the Perfect Time to Start Therapy for Your Child
As the school year winds down and families ease into the slower rhythm of summer, many parents look forward to a well-earned break from packed schedules, early mornings, and homework battles.
But summer isn’t just a time for rest… it can also be an ideal opportunity to support your child’s emotional well-being through therapy. If you’ve been wondering whether your child could benefit from counseling, the summer months may offer the perfect window to explore that support.
Here’s why:
1. A Break From Academic Pressure
During the school year, children are often balancing academics, social expectations, extracurriculars, and the stress that can come with performance and structure. In contrast, summer offers a less pressured environment where kids may feel more relaxed, open, and ready to engage in therapy.
2. Time to Build Coping Skills Before School Starts Again
Starting therapy in the summer gives your child valuable time to develop emotional tools, self- awareness, and build strategies. These are skills that can be especially helpful when the new school year begins. Whether your child struggles with anxiety, friendships, focus, or self-esteem, beginning therapy now means they’ll be more prepared to handle transitions and challenges in the fall.
3. Emotional Challenges Don’t Take the Summer Off
Even when the school stressors fade, emotional struggles can remain. In fact, some kids feel adrift during summer due to a lack of routine or separation from school friends. For others, summer may bring its own stressors, such as family transitions, travel anxiety, or changes in routine.
Therapy provides a supportive space for kids to explore these feelings and develop resilience, no matter the season.
Signs Your Child Might Benefit From Therapy
It’s not always easy to know if your child needs support, but some common signs include:
- Sudden changes in mood, sleep, or appetite
- Increased irritability, sadness, or withdrawal
- Difficulty managing emotions or frequent outbursts
- Social struggles or isolation
- Anxiety about school or social situations
- Grief or changes in family life (e.g., divorce, relocation)
Even if your child isn’t in crisis, therapy can still offer valuable tools for navigating life’s ups and downs.
What Therapy Looks Like for Kids
Child and adolescent therapy is tailored to your child’s age, personality, and needs. Sessions might involve talk, play, art, games, or skill-building exercises, all of which are designed to help kids express themselves and process their feelings in a safe, engaging way. At our practice, we work closely with both children and their parents to create a supportive, personalized experience.
Ready to Explore Therapy This Summer?
Summer is a season of growth, freedom, and possibility, but it can also be a season of healing. If you’ve been thinking about therapy for your child, now might be the perfect time to start. We’re here to help you take that first step. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about how therapy can support your child’s mental and emotional well-being. We’re available to serve families at our office in Houston, Texas.
About the Author
Shelby Kallus is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Bonnie Mondragon, M.S., LPC-S, RPT-S. She enjoys working with children, adolescents, and their families to address a variety of mental health concerns including depression, grief, trauma, behavioral concerns, and life transitions. She specializes in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help her clients achieve positive outcomes.