Individual, Family and Group Therapy for Children

Supporting a child’s emotional and mental well-being often involves more than just individual therapy. At KU Wichita Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences clinics in Wichita, we provide comprehensive therapeutic services that address the needs of children, their families and the relationships that shape them. Whether your child is facing emotional struggles, behavioral challenges, or difficulties at home or school, we offer tailored therapy solutions including individual therapy, parent-child counseling and group-based approaches. 

What is child and family therapy?

Child and family therapy is a compassionate, developmentally appropriate approach to supporting children through life’s challenges. This form of therapy may involve:

  • One-on-one psychotherapy with a child
  • Parent-child conflict counseling
  • Family or group-based therapy sessions

We provide a safe, supportive space where children and families can explore emotions, strengthen communication and work through behavioral or relational issues with the guidance of a licensed therapist.

Individual Therapy for Children

Child psychotherapy—also known as child therapy or play therapy—is designed specifically for young minds. It focuses on helping children better understand and manage their emotions, behaviors and relationships. 

Individual therapy can help children: 

  • Develop emotional intelligence
  • Process difficult experiences or trauma
  • Build healthy coping strategies
  • Improve behavior at home or school
  • Strengthen self-esteem and resilience

Depending on your child’s needs and age, therapy might involve play, art, storytelling, or talk-based techniques. The therapeutic relationship is built on trust, empathy and consistency. 

Parent-Child Conflict Counseling

Sometimes, the key to helping a child thrive lies in repairing and strengthening the parent-child relationship. Our parent-child conflict counseling focuses on enhancing communication and resolving tension between parents and children. 

This form of therapy addresses: 

  • Frequent arguing or yelling 
  • Verbal or physical aggression 
  • Lack of respect or emotional withdrawal 
  • Ongoing miscommunication or boundary issues 

We offer structured sessions that provide both the child and parent with tools to: 

  • Resolve ongoing conflicts
  • Establish and maintain healthy boundaries
  • Improve emotional connection
  • Enhance parenting skills
  • Promote emotional well-being within the entire family

In many cases, these sessions involve one parent and one child, but we can also accommodate broader family dynamics as needed. 

Group and Family Therapy Approaches

In addition to individual and dyadic (parent-child) counseling, we may recommend group or family-based therapy for more holistic support. These sessions allow for shared experiences, mutual understanding and peer support, especially for children navigating similar issues.

Types of therapy we may integrate:

  • Play Therapy: Helps younger children express themselves through play
  • Art Therapy: Encourages creative exploration of emotions and trauma
  • Narrative Therapy: Uses storytelling to reframe self-perception
  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps modify negative thought patterns
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Teaches children to embrace inner emotions with mindfulness
  • Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT): Strengthens positive communication
  • Family Therapy: Engages the whole family in working through challenges

When is therapy recommended?

Children and families may benefit from therapy when challenges become persistent or disruptive. You might consider reaching out if you notice:
  • Emotional outbursts or withdrawal
  • Sudden changes in behavior
  • Trouble at school or with peers
  • Anxiety, depression, or excessive fear
  • Difficulty coping with transitions, divorce, or loss
  • Persistent parent-child conflict
Early intervention can prevent deeper emotional struggles down the road and build a foundation for long-term well-being.

Our Treatment Process

Treatment is always tailored to each child and family’s unique situation. Depending on the symptoms and goals, we may recommend:
  • Psychotherapy (individual or family-based)
  • Medication management, when appropriate
  • Parent coaching and support
  • Collaborative care with schools or pediatricians
Our therapists work closely with parents or caregivers throughout the process, keeping communication open and transparent while centering the child’s developmental needs.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you’re concerned about your child’s emotional health or your relationship with them, we’re here to help. Our team in Wichita offers immediate availability for both therapy and psychiatry services.

Let us support your family’s path toward healing and connection. Give us a call at 316-293-2647 today to get started, or request an appointment online through our secure form.

Request an Appointment