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Child Abuse Counseling in Scottsdale, AZ

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Children who are victims of abuse often experience emotional difficulties. Whether it has been sexual, psychological, or physical abuse it can affect them in school and social skills. Survivors of abuse are at heightened risk for mental health issues like depression.

Some symptoms can be seen as red flags of abuse.

  • Withdrawal from usual activities or friends
  • Behavior changes, such as aggression, anger, hyperactivity. There may be a change in school performance.
  • A sudden loss of self-confidence or signs of anxiety, unusual fears, or depression
  • Attempts a running away
  • Rebellious or defiant behavior
  • Attempts at suicide or self-harm
  • Unexplained injuries, bruises, fractures of burns
  • Sexual knowledge or behavior that’s not age-appropriate.
  • Avoidance of certain situations, like going to school, or riding a bus

Talking with a mental health professional can help a child learn to trust again. It can also teach about normal behavior and relationships. Skills with child conflict management can be taught to the child.

Some types of therapy to consider would be:

Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) – This therapy will allow the child to better manage the distressing feelings. They will also be helped to deal with trauma-related memories. Part of the therapy can include the supportive parent(s) and child together. This will allow the child to tell the parent(s) exactly what happened.

Family or child-parent therapy – this therapy focuses on improving the parent-child relationship. It is also designed to build a stronger bond between them.

For parents, therapy can also help to discover the roots of the abuse. They can develop effective ways to cope with life’s frustrations. They can also learn healthy parenting strategies.

The trained counselors at Pathways Counseling Services will listen, care and work with your child. A treatment plan will be created that is best for your child and family to live a full and healthier life.

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