Divorce is hard on everyone involved, but it can be especially difficult for children. They may feel caught in the middle of their parents’ conflict, and may blame themselves for the divorce. In addition, divorce can disrupt families and make it difficult for children to maintain strong relationships with both parents. While divorce is certainly a challenge, there are ways to help children cope. One important way is through therapy. Therapy can provide a space for children to process their feelings and work through any anger or sadness they are feeling. In addition, therapy can help children learn how to deal with conflict in a healthy way. Through therapy, children of divorce can learn how to cope with their new reality and build strong, lasting relationships with both of their parents.Our counselors know how to help.
Contact us if you want to learn what your child is trying to communicate and help them thrive during this difficult time. Our highly skilled and trained therapists will listen and help your son or daughter.
If you are ready to learn how we can help your child, call Psych Associates at 417-414-0333 or schedule your appointment online.
Divorce therapy for children is counseling specifically tailored to help young kids and adolescents navigate the emotional, behavioral, and relational changes that come with parental separation or divorce. In Springfield, MO, therapy provides a safe space for children to express feelings like sadness, anger, confusion, guilt, or fear, learn healthy coping skills, adjust to new routines, and maintain stability amid changes in family structure.
Some red flags indicating a child may need help include prolonged mood swings, severe or persistent anxiety, lack of interest in friends or school, bedtime struggles or nightmares, regressive behaviors (e.g. bedwetting, clinginess), acting out or aggression, poor academic performance, or physical complaints like headaches or stomachaches without medical cause. If these occur for several weeks and interfere with daily functioning, it’s a good idea to seek therapy.
Therapists use age-appropriate, evidence-based methods, including play therapy, art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) adapted for kids, emotional regulation skills, family sessions/co-parenting coordination, and support in understanding the divorce in ways that make sense to the child. These methods help children process feelings at their pace and build coping strategies.
The duration of therapy depends on the child’s age, the level of disruption caused by the divorce, and whether there are other stressors (e.g. conflict between parents, changes in living situation). Some children begin showing improvements—better emotional expression, fewer outbursts, more consistent routines—within a few sessions to a few months. Ongoing check-ins and consistent participation are key for more lasting adjustment.