children and adolescent therapy in  Oklahoma City, OK

Children & Adolescent Therapy in Oklahoma City, OK

If you have a child working to overcome challenges such as anxiety, behavioral disorders, or other conditions, reach out to ACT Family Therapy, led by Karen Cox, MS, LMFT, CMIP. The practice offers children and adolescent therapy that gives young people the specialized, compassionate care they need to thrive. Call the office in Oklahoma City, OK today or book an appointment online.

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What is children and adolescent therapy?

While childhood should be a time of fun, play, and adventure, it can also be difficult for a variety of reasons. If you have a child who struggles with conditions that hold them back from thriving, they need an expert like Karen at ACT Family Therapy. She offers children and adolescent therapy and works with little ones as young as 4 years old.

Children and adolescent therapy addresses the biological, psychological, and social issues that young people experience. This broad scope includes:

  • Trauma and loss
  • Cognitive deficits
  • Social problems
  • Behavioral problems
  • Psychological problems
  • Mental health issues
  • Developmental problems
  • Family problems
  • Coping with developmental changes
  • Emotional problems
  • Stress

When a child visits ACT Family Therapy, Karen offers her expert knowledge alongside a thorough understanding of your child’s basic psychological needs. She also recognizes how family dynamics and other social influences can affect a child socially, emotionally, developmentally, and behaviorally, and she takes the time to truly learn about each child’s situation. When the whole household is affected, she may also recommend family therapy or parent guidance to support lasting change.

What does children and adolescent therapy address?

Karen specializes in helping children overcome a wide range of conditions, including:

Mental disorders

These include anxiety, depression, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.

Disruptive behavior disorders

These include conduct disorder and oppositional defiant disorder.

Developmental disorders

These include attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorders, dyslexia, intellectual disability, and communication disorders.

Abuse

Children and adolescent therapy addresses all types of abuse, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as child neglect.

Eating disorders

These include anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating.

Addictions

Karen has the expertise to help children and adolescents who struggle with addictions to the internet, gaming, drugs, alcohol, and gambling.

Sleep disorders

These include insomnia, sleepwalking, and nightmares.

At ACT Family Therapy, Karen has the expertise to help children and adolescents develop problem-solving skills that allow them to cope with and even overcome their condition.

How does children and adolescent therapy work?

Karen uses a wide range of procedures and skills when counseling children and adolescents, including:

  • Play therapy techniques
  • Talk therapy
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy
  • Psychoeducation in trauma-focused therapy
  • Internal family systems therapy
  • Narrative therapy
  • Attachment theory therapy
  • ADHD therapy

Your provider at ACT Family Therapy is also trauma-informed and trained, ensuring that sensitive experiences are handled with care and skill.

If you have a child or adolescent who needs counseling, don’t hesitate to call ACT Family Therapy today at (405) 820-7272. You can also book an appointment online.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the youngest age you treat?

Karen works with children as young as 4 years old, using age-appropriate methods such as play therapy to help young children express themselves and process their experiences safely.

How is therapy for children different from therapy for adults?

Children often communicate through play and activities rather than conversation alone. Karen adapts her approach using play therapy, creative techniques, and developmentally appropriate language so younger patients feel comfortable and understood.

What conditions can children and adolescent therapy help with?

Therapy can help with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum concerns, behavioral disorders, trauma, grief, social difficulties, and more. Karen creates a plan tailored to your child’s specific needs.

Will I be involved in my child’s therapy?

Parental involvement is an important part of the process. Karen may include parents through updates, parent guidance, or family sessions to support your child’s progress at home.

How will I know if therapy is working?

Karen tracks progress over time and looks for improvements in mood, behavior, coping skills, and relationships. She keeps you informed and adjusts the approach as your child grows and changes.

Is play therapy actually effective?

Yes. Play therapy is a well-established, evidence-supported method that allows children to express feelings and work through challenges in a natural way, especially when they are too young to fully verbalize their emotions.

How do I schedule an appointment for my child?

Call ACT Family Therapy at (405) 820-7272 or use the online booking tool. The friendly office staff will help you find a convenient time to get your child started.