Therapy for Culturally Confident Kids and Teens
You want the best for your child. But, that may mean sending them to schools and activities where no one else looks like them. They may be the only visible People of Color. This exposure can give them a distorted view of themselves and their self-worth. Plus, it can impact their feelings of belonging and identity.
Oftentimes, kids and teens don't identify their racial or cultural differences as factors in their issues. Many have learned that fitting in is safest and calling attention to mistreatment related to that makes things worse. A culturally competent therapist will understand the tough position these kids are in, respect it. These kids need a lot of validation and room to explore their feelings. It's really important that they're handled by someone who's comfortable with holding space for uncomfortable thoughts feelings and experiences.
Common reasons to begin therapy for kids and teens of color
Increased anxiety
Perfectionism - stressing out when making minor mistakes
Bullying - from peers and even teachers
Expressing a desire to look different (more like to majority)
Difficulty fitting in with peers
Feeling like they are too much, or not enough
Struggle to keep up a facade
They’ve experienced discrimination and racism
Our Approach to Therapy for Kids and Teens of color in Philadelphia, Pa
Our child and teen therapists use a client-centered approach. We meet kids and teens where they are and offer support and validation. Every feeling and experience is valid. This is so important when working with kids who may have experienced discrimination and marginalization. Their voices are often muffled, and their feelings are dismissed. We offer a space where they can feel free to express themselves. All without fear of judgment or correction. We serve as guides in session. Together, we work towards empowerment and connection to safe supports. When kids feel believed, honored, and respected, healing can begin.
Why Didn’t I Know My Child Was Struggling Sooner? Why Didn’t Tell Me?
Children can internalize a lot of what they’re told and they don’t want to make a big deal of it. They usually feel coming forward will make things worse.
Kids love to please adults. So, revealing microaggressions from a teacher, coach, or trusted authority figure would be hard for them.
Bullying and racist behaviors don’t look the same as they used to. With the internet, texting, and social media, it’s easier for kids to keep things to themselves.
I Always Praise and Encourage my Child. We’re a Proud Family. Why Are They Struggling?
It’s great that you’re encouraging them to love themselves. It’s also wonderful you are sharing the joys of your community and heritage.
There’s a lot of pressure to be perfect in communities of color. Especially when children are the only child of color in their classroom, dance class, or sports team. They may feel supported at home. But, the pressure to be perfect among peers and avoid negative attention can still be present.
This is how the world is. I had to deal with the same thing.
Me too! It was horrible! Wouldn’t you have loved to have some support during that time? I know I would have. Figuring out your place in the world is hard enough. Why not give them what you wish you had?
Overcoming difficult situations is vital to character building and growth. Yet, the emotional scars of exclusion, bullying, and low self-esteem can run deep. These experiences can be traumatic. They can shape the way your child views themselves in the world. They can dim your child’s light that you want to shine bright.
Begin Therapy for Kids and Teens of Color in Philadelphia, pa
You and your child deserve a place for your unique feelings to be heard. Our caring therapists can provide a space for kids and teens to explore these feelings. We offer our therapy services from our Philadelphia, PA-based therapy practice. To start your therapy journey, please follow these steps:
Meet with a caring therapist
Start feeling more culturally confident today!
OTHER SERVICES OFFERED WITH AMEL THERAPY
Therapy for kids and teens of color isn’t the only service offered at our Philadelphia, PA-based therapy practice. We offer online therapy, child therapy, play therapy, and counseling for teens. We also offer trauma therapy, grief and loss therapy, and support for parents. Feel free to learn more about parent coaching and our group offerings as well. This includes the worry warriors, culturally confident teen group, and our teen girls group!