When is a child old enough for counseling? Is 8 too young?

Lisa - posted on 07/11/2009

He is most definitely NOT too young. There are counselors out there that specialize in helping younger children. Children who are able to get help earlier will be able to deal with what is bothering them sooner. The longer it waits the harder it will be. My 10 year old step-daughter and my 11 year old step son BOTH need counseling due to abuse from their biological mother and her boyfriend when she had custody of them. My son is 7 and there were moments I wanted to get him into counseling when he was 5 and 6 years old because of how he was handling the divorce of me and his father. The school was going to help me get him into support group for kids his age. I never ended up doing it. He has come a long way fortunately, but if you feel your child would benefit from counseling because you have exhausted what you can do for him.................. then by all means, do that for him. It would do wonders for him.

Vicki - posted on 07/10/2009

It's not too young at all. Go with your gut, and you can't go wrong. You may be surprised to find how helpful even just a few therapy sessions can be, especially if you find a gifted child psychologist. Best wishes to you and your family.

Samantha - posted on 07/09/2009

There is counseling out there. My 7 year old is currently in counseling to help him deal with the fact that he has had 18 surgeries and needs a kidney transplant. He has behavior problems and alot of anger. The counseling is helping him tremendously.

Melinda - posted on 07/03/2009

Definitely go for the counseling! Pay close attention to what is being said. Sometimes it may not match reality. I have a son and daughter who are experts at telling the counselor what he wants to hear; unfortunately, it's not always the truth. My son was only 5 when he started manipulating the counselor.

Jodi - posted on 07/02/2009

i dont think its ever to early to get counceling. . i was 7. just make sure they talk and dont force meds on them.. thats the key.

Jill - posted on 07/02/2009

Hi there i think i know sum of wot u r goin through, my son is 6 and he has got attachement disorder, my son has just started counseling and even though it's only bin 4 a short time i can c small diferences in his behaviour. So no 8 is not 2 young i hope this has bin some help and gd luck jill

Julie - posted on 07/02/2009

It is absolutely not too young. My oldest two sons (ages 8 & 9) go to counseling. They lost their real father back in December of 2008, I took them to counseling right away. Yes, these are different circumstances but there are counselors for your son and don't let anybody tell you differently. Good luck
Julie

Melissa - posted on 07/02/2009

Absolutely! I had the same issue with my kids. I got divorced when they were 4 and 2. I took them to a very good counselor who specializes in child psychology as well as divorce issues. It helped them a lot. I would not hesitate to find a quality counselor if you feel he needs one.