At what age can a child start therapy?

We see children starting at age 5. Younger children work primarily through play and art rather than conversation, which is why our child sessions are built around play therapy.

Do parents join their child's therapy sessions?

Often, yes. Depending on the child's age and needs, parents may join sessions, attend periodic check-ins, or receive guidance for supporting progress at home. Your child's counselor will recommend an approach at intake.

How do I know if my child needs counseling?

Common signs include persistent worry or fear, big changes in sleep or appetite, withdrawal from friends or activities, frequent meltdowns beyond what's typical for their age, regression, or trouble at school that isn't improving. A first appointment can help you sort out what's developmentally normal and what deserves support.

Who we help · Ages 5–10

Child Counseling in Spokane Valley, WA (Ages 5–10)

Child, Marriage & Family Counseling provides counseling for children ages 5–10 in Spokane Valley, WA, using play therapy, art therapy, and age-appropriate talk therapy to help kids work through anxiety, big emotions, behavior struggles, and family changes.

How does counseling work for a child who won’t “talk about feelings”?

Children rarely process hard things by sitting on a couch and talking. They process through play — it’s the language they’re already fluent in. Our counselors use play therapy, art therapy, and sand tray therapy so a child can show what’s going on inside without needing adult words for it.

A typical child session looks like playing, drawing, or building — but the counselor is using those activities deliberately, to help your child express feelings, practice coping skills, and build a sense of safety.

What we help children with

Anxiety, worries, and fears
Big emotions and meltdowns
Behavior concerns at home or school
Divorce and family transitions
Grief and loss
Trauma and difficult experiences
ADHD and attention concerns
Self-esteem and friendship trouble
Adoption and foster care experiences

What parents can expect

You know your child best, and you’re part of the work. Expect a thorough intake conversation, regular updates on themes and progress (while respecting your child’s sense of privacy in session), and concrete ideas for supporting them at home.

Getting started

Call the counselor you’d like to work with — meet the team — or send us a message. Ages 5–10 are typically matched with our play-therapy-trained counselors.

Common questions

At what age can a child start therapy?: We see children starting at age 5. Younger children work primarily through play and art rather than conversation, which is why our child sessions are built around play therapy.
Do parents join their child's therapy sessions?: Often, yes. Depending on the child's age and needs, parents may join sessions, attend periodic check-ins, or receive guidance for supporting progress at home. Your child's counselor will recommend an approach at intake.
How do I know if my child needs counseling?: Common signs include persistent worry or fear, big changes in sleep or appetite, withdrawal from friends or activities, frequent meltdowns beyond what's typical for their age, regression, or trouble at school that isn't improving. A first appointment can help you sort out what's developmentally normal and what deserves support.