When a child experiences trauma, it can impact their emotions, behavior, and ability to communicate—often leaving parents feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to help. If your child is acting out, struggling in school, or withdrawing, these challenges may be signs of unresolved trauma.
Frequent anger, irritability, or mood swings may indicate difficulty processing trauma-related emotions.
A child who suddenly becomes quiet, avoids social interactions, or loses interest in activities they once enjoyed may be struggling internally.
Nightmares, difficulty falling asleep, or bedwetting can be signs of trauma-related anxiety or fear.
Struggles with attention, memory, or performance in school may stem from a brain overwhelmed by stress or fear.
Acting younger than their age, such as thumb-sucking or clinginess, can signal emotional distress.
Children who have experienced trauma may exhibit behaviors that can be confusing, upsetting, or difficult to understand. Whether due to a sudden life event, family instability, or ongoing stressors, trauma can have a significant impact on a child’s emotional and psychological development. They may struggle with feelings of fear, sadness, or anger, and their ability to trust others or communicate effectively might be compromised. In some cases, a child may act out, withdraw, or show signs of anxiety or depression, all of which can create challenges at home, in school, and in social settings.
Trauma can affect children in different ways, depending on their age, temperament, and the circumstances surrounding the trauma. While some children may seem resilient and able to cope, others may exhibit ongoing difficulties that hinder their daily functioning. This can be particularly challenging for parents, who may feel uncertain about how to best support their child or unsure about the most effective ways to help them heal. Fortunately, trauma-focused therapy provides a safe and supportive space where children can process their experiences, develop healthy coping strategies, and rebuild their sense of security.
If you’re concerned that your child’s emotional or behavioral struggles might be linked to past trauma, it’s important to seek professional support. Child trauma therapy can help your child understand their feelings, improve their emotional regulation, and rebuild trust and self-esteem. With the right guidance and interventions, children can heal from their trauma and develop the tools they need to thrive emotionally, socially, and academically.
Therapy for children who have experienced trauma focuses on creating a safe, non-judgmental space where they can express their emotions and process difficult experiences at their own pace. Through play therapy, art, storytelling, and other child-friendly techniques, children can begin to make sense of their feelings and experiences in a way that feels comfortable and empowering. Therapy also helps children learn how to manage difficult emotions, build resilience, and strengthen their coping mechanisms. By working with a trained therapist, children can develop healthier ways to handle stress, rebuild their confidence, and learn to navigate their world with a renewed sense of safety and self-worth.
This is a common question that parents often ask themselves when they are considering seeking additional support. As you know, relationships are complicated and involve more than one person. If your goal is to have a more positive relationship with your child, it is important for both you and your child to learn new strategies to engage more effectively in the relationship. For parents of younger children, your role is even more significant in potentially changing your child’s behavior and you have large influence on your relationship with them. Being a parent is very difficult even in the best situations. At MindWell NYC, we believe that parents can use additional support throughout various stages of development for their child.
Childhood trauma therapy is often referred to as trauma-focused therapy or trauma-informed therapy. Specific types include trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), play therapy, and EMDR.
The best therapy for unresolved childhood trauma often depends on the child’s specific needs, but trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) and EMDR are widely regarded as effective. These therapies help children process traumatic memories and develop healthy coping strategies to move forward.
MindWell NYC does not bill health insurance directly. We are happy to provide you with statements at the end of the month which can be submitted to your insurance company for reimbursement as per your plan.
Phone: 646-809-5440
Email: intake@mindwellnyc.com
Address: 80 8th Avenue, Suite 600
New York, NY 10011
(NE corner of 8th Avenue and 14th Street)
