Image of a therapist and client in a counseling session.

686,000 people sought help with Thriveworks in the last year

Discover how starting therapy with a child can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.

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Starting Child therapy

What is child therapy?

Child therapy, also known as counseling for kids, helps young individuals better understand and manage the challenges that affect their mental health. Common challenges amongst kids include behavioral issues, trauma, bullying, depression, and anxiety. All ages of children can attend and benefit from child therapy at Thriveworks Washington.

How does child therapy work?

Child therapy works by using multiple techniques tailored to fit the child’s needs based on their age group, their challenges, and the severity of their challenges. It might involve play therapy for younger kids or cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, art therapy, and others for varying ages. In any case, Thriveworks child therapists in Washington, D.C. have the expertise and experience to help kids at their level.

Play therapy vs. child therapy

Child therapy is a type of therapy meant for clients within a specific age group, while play therapy is an approach to therapy that helps children with self-expression and stress relief, among others. Play therapy is a technique that is often used in child therapy to help children express what’s running through their minds when they do not have the words to express their thoughts and emotions. It can get children to express what’s wrong, what might be causing unwanted behaviors, or what they might need in a way that is accessible to them so that therapists can then work to treat the issue.

How to tell if my child needs counseling

It’s not always obvious when a child should see a therapist for their behavior, though in the midst of challenges like divorce, loss, bullying, and other mental health conditions, it’s often a good idea to seek it out. Common behaviors that can indicate a need for child therapy include separation anxiety, bedwetting (at inappropriate ages), and agitation/excessive irritability — especially if it reaches a point of physical violence.

What type of therapy is best for children?

Cognitive behavioral therapy at Thriveworks in Washington, D.C. is one of the best types of therapy for children. However, it can be administered in child therapy sessions in a variety of ways that are more accessible to young minds, such as play therapy.

Is child therapy conducted in person or online?

Child therapy at Thriveworks is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.

How long does child therapy last?

The length of child therapy depends on your child’s needs as well as the goals that you and their therapist might have for them. Generally, child therapy sessions will last for several months.

How much does child therapy cost?

For talk therapy, intake sessions range from $160 to $240, and follow-ups range from $135 to $195, depending on your state. For psychiatry, intake sessions range from $255 to $375, and follow-ups range from $175 to $300, depending on your state. More information on current self-pay costs is available on our pricing page.

Need more help deciding?

Child Therapy in Washington, DC—Therapists and Counselors for Kids

While we cannot protect our kids from every challenge, we can guide them as they encounter obstacles. If you feel that your child needs additional support, consider scheduling an appointment with a child therapist at Thriveworks Washington D.C.

Call us today to get started at (202) 932-7587.

What Is Child Therapy?

Child therapy aims to help kids and teens manage problems such as bullying, mental illness, and more. The child therapists at Thriveworks Washington, DC, are equipped to assist these young individuals, understanding how their developing brains and minds work. Informed by their education and training, these professionals can break down challenges in a way that kids and teens can understand and work through.

Child therapy is beneficial for all ages, including toddlers, grade-school children, adolescents, and teens. Therapists use various techniques and tools to help children process their emotions and get back to happy living. The goal is to prevent negative effects on their developmental and mental growth.

Who Can Benefit from Child Therapy?

It can be hard for parents to accept that their kids might be struggling, but all children face challenges at some point. Child therapists have refined skills and tools to help your child navigate these obstacles.

Here are common issues discussed in child therapy:

  • Symptoms of a mental illness
  • Bullying
  • Traumatic events
  • Loss of a loved one
  • Major life changes
  • Divorce in the family
  • Learning disabilities

Understanding when your child could benefit from therapy isn’t always easy. If they are facing any of the above issues, consider setting them up with a child therapist at Thriveworks Washington, DC.

Schedule Child Therapy at Thriveworks Washington, DC

If your child appears to be struggling, remember that seeking help is a proactive step in supporting their well-being. At Thriveworks Washington, DC, we have skilled and caring child therapists ready to help your child or teen navigate their challenges and live better.

To schedule a child therapy appointment, call Thriveworks Washington, DC, at (202) 221-8410. We can often set up an appointment as soon as tomorrow, ensuring your child gets the help they need when they need it.

Pricing & insurance

Our therapists accept most major insurances. We accept 585+ insurance plans, and offer self-pay options, too.
Learn more about pricing for therapy and counseling services at Thriveworks.

Our therapists and counselors accept 0 insurance plans

Self-pay costs at Washington
Talk therapy

Talk therapy

Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Talk therapy

Psychiatry

Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Hear from our clients

5.0 Thriveworks Washington reviews are collected through Thriveworks.com.
★★★★★
Dr. Mizell is great!! I really enjoyed talking to her and she is top notch!! I will still keep in contact with her. I changed my email address but she has my phone number on file. She is the best therapist I ever had!!
Read more Dr. Mizell is great!! I really enjoyed talking to her and she is top notch!! I will still keep in contact with her. I changed my email address but she has my phone number on file. She is the best therapist I ever had!!
Online Jun 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I’m so happy to have y’all thanks for everything
Online Jun 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Auto accident caused my Traumatic Brain Injury, PTSD, loosing sight in one eye.... just the beginning of injuries I incurred. I clicked with Stephanie. Her beautiful spirt is equaled by her high intelligence. She took the time to learn what happened to me and what my triggers were, and the overall emotional state I was in. I truly felt that she cared about me as a person and wanted to see me recover after my life was shattered. When I began therapy with her, I honestly wasn't sure if I could recover. I thought my life was over and there couldn't be a way to recover, then I began sessions with her. Now I have hope in my future and a healthy mindset which will help me to overcome my traumatic event and live my best life. I had know idea a transformation was possible before meeting Stephanie, but she showed me it was very much possible. I worked hard with her to heal. I worked with other therapists/psychiatrists before finding Stephanie, and she is different. I truly felt that she listened to me.. she genuinely cared about my mental health.. I'm so very grateful for all she's done for me. Saying "Thank you" seems so inadequate, but it's what I can say to her. Stephanie-- from the bottom of my heart, I'm so humbly grateful for you and what you've helped me through. May all that's good in this world come back to you ten-fold!!
Read more Auto accident caused my Traumatic Brain Injury, PTSD, loosing sight in one eye.... just the beginning of injuries I incurred. I clicked with Stephanie. Her beautiful spirt is equaled by her high intelligence. She took the time to learn what happened to me and what my triggers were, and the overall emotional state I was in. I truly felt that she cared about me as a person and wanted to see me recover after my life was shattered. When I began therapy with her, I honestly wasn't sure if I could recover. I thought my life was over and there couldn't be a way to recover, then I began sessions with her. Now I have hope in my future and a healthy mindset which will help me to overcome my traumatic event and live my best life. I had know idea a transformation was possible before meeting Stephanie, but she showed me it was very much possible. I worked hard with her to heal. I worked with other therapists/psychiatrists before finding Stephanie, and she is different. I truly felt that she listened to me.. she genuinely cared about my mental health.. I'm so very grateful for all she's done for me. Saying "Thank you" seems so inadequate, but it's what I can say to her. Stephanie-- from the bottom of my heart, I'm so humbly grateful for you and what you've helped me through. May all that's good in this world come back to you ten-fold!!
Online Jun 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I’ve been doing Zoom calls with Cody for over 6 months now and I have to say he’s the best therapist I’ve ever had. He’s down to earth, real, honest, and so good at pointing out my thought distortions. I’ve been through a lot lately and he’s been right there to help me the whole time. I’ve even taken to saying “everyone needs a Cody!” He works hard and cares hard and the world needs more people - and therapists! - like him.
Read more I’ve been doing Zoom calls with Cody for over 6 months now and I have to say he’s the best therapist I’ve ever had. He’s down to earth, real, honest, and so good at pointing out my thought distortions. I’ve been through a lot lately and he’s been right there to help me the whole time. I’ve even taken to saying “everyone needs a Cody!” He works hard and cares hard and the world needs more people - and therapists! - like him.
Online May 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Stacie has been a tremendous help in assisting me with managing my anxiety. She is easy to talk to, and I felt like she genuinely cared about what I am going through. I have learned some coping skills that have made a difference in how I approach life and my family. I am grateful to have found her. Stacie is like talking to an old friend, yet she has challenged me in a way that has helped me move past some issues I had been hanging onto for many years.
Read more Stacie has been a tremendous help in assisting me with managing my anxiety. She is easy to talk to, and I felt like she genuinely cared about what I am going through. I have learned some coping skills that have made a difference in how I approach life and my family. I am grateful to have found her. Stacie is like talking to an old friend, yet she has challenged me in a way that has helped me move past some issues I had been hanging onto for many years.
Online Apr 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Evelyn has excellent interpersonal skills and provides a safe and secure environment. Evelyn elevated her staff to high standards and made sure that they were recognized for their efforts. Evelyn is time oriented and focused on daily tasks. Evelyn set specific goals and timeline for her staff. Evelyn strides for excellence and encourage her staff to do the same. Evelyn is a team player and adhere to the rule and regulation of the organization that she works for. Evelyn is very supportive of her staff.
Read more Evelyn has excellent interpersonal skills and provides a safe and secure environment. Evelyn elevated her staff to high standards and made sure that they were recognized for their efforts. Evelyn is time oriented and focused on daily tasks. Evelyn set specific goals and timeline for her staff. Evelyn strides for excellence and encourage her staff to do the same. Evelyn is a team player and adhere to the rule and regulation of the organization that she works for. Evelyn is very supportive of her staff.
Online Apr 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Nin has such a welcoming and kind demeanor that makes her easy to talk too. You will find out very quickly she genuinely cares about you as a person, and is able to show empathy towards you that makes you feel heard, listened to, and understood. You rarely see her without a big smile on her face and her energy is contagious.
Read more Nin has such a welcoming and kind demeanor that makes her easy to talk too. You will find out very quickly she genuinely cares about you as a person, and is able to show empathy towards you that makes you feel heard, listened to, and understood. You rarely see her without a big smile on her face and her energy is contagious.
Online Mar 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Jennifer is one of the most reliable and empathetic therapists that I’ve had the pleasure of calling my colleague. She shows dedication and compassion to every one of her clients. Jennifer is a true value to the field of counseling.
Read more Jennifer is one of the most reliable and empathetic therapists that I’ve had the pleasure of calling my colleague. She shows dedication and compassion to every one of her clients. Jennifer is a true value to the field of counseling.
Online Feb 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com

Where to find us

Getting here

Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Washington DC is located on Wisconsin Ave near the waterfront. We currently share a building with Core Architecture and Design, Quarterlife Center, and Window Wears.

Phone number

(202) 932-7587

Languages spoken by D.C. providers

  • English
Thursday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Friday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Saturday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Monday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 9:00pm

Shown in ET

Thursday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Friday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Saturday 7:00am - 6:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 5:00pm
Monday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Tuesday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Wednesday 7:00am - 9:30pm

Shown in ET

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