Kids have big feelings, and sometimes those feelings are bigger than the tools they have to handle them. When your child is hurting, struggling, or just seems different lately, it helps to have a skilled, kind adult in their corner. That is what children's therapy at Mertens Counseling is all about.
Our children's therapy in Kearney, NE gives kids a welcoming place to sort through hard things, at their own pace, in ways that actually work for how kids think and learn. We see children for all kinds of reasons, from big life changes to worry, sadness, anger, and everything in between.
What is children's therapy?
Children's therapy is counseling designed for how kids communicate, which is usually through play, drawing, stories, and movement long before it is through words. A trained child therapist uses these natural channels to help kids name feelings, practice new skills, and make sense of what is happening in their world.
Therapy can help your child:
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Put feelings into words instead of behavior
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Build skills for handling anger, worry, and sadness
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Adjust to changes like divorce, a move, or a new sibling
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Rebuild confidence after a hard experience
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Get along better with family and friends
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Feel heard, understood, and proud of their progress
Just as important, therapy gives you, the parent, a partner. You will not have to guess what is going on or how to help.
How we help
Our therapists take a family-centered approach. Depending on your child's age and needs, sessions might include play-based activities, art, games, and conversation, mixed with practical skills kids can use the same day. We also spend time with you, because children do best when the important adults in their life understand what they are working on.
If your child needs more specialized support, we offer focused programs for kids with anxiety, autism, behavior challenges, and trauma histories. We will always point you to the right fit, even if that is not the service you called about first.
Reasons families reach out
Families bring their children to see us for many reasons, including:
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Big emotions that spill over at home or school
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Worry, fearfulness, or trouble separating from parents
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Sadness, withdrawal, or loss of interest in favorite things
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Trouble with friendships or school
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Grief after losing someone they love
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Adjusting to divorce, blending families, or moving
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Behavior that has changed and stayed changed
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Healing after scary or painful experiences
There is no problem too small to ask about. If therapy is not needed, we will tell you, and we will happily point you toward resources that fit better.
What the first visit looks like
Plan on a relaxed first visit. We will invite you to share what you have noticed, and we will spend time getting to know your child so they feel comfortable before any of the deeper work starts. Kids usually warm up quickly once they realize the office has toys, games, and an adult who genuinely enjoys their company.
Together, we will set a few simple goals, and we will revisit them with you regularly. You will always know what your child is working on and how to support it at home.
Every child can grow
We believe that about every kid who walks through our door, including on the days when they cannot believe it themselves. Children are remarkably resilient when someone takes the time to understand them. Given a safe place and steady support, most kids start to surprise everyone, including themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What ages do you work with?
We see children from early childhood through the pre-teen years. For older kids, our teen therapy program is often the better fit.
2.Will I know what happens in sessions?
Yes. We keep parents in the loop at every step, and we will coach you on how to build on the progress at home.
3. How long will my child need therapy?
It depends on your child and your goals. Some concerns resolve in a handful of sessions. We will talk through a realistic timeline after we get to know your child.
4. Is telehealth available for children?
For some children and situations, yes. We offer secure telehealth across Nebraska, though many young children do best starting in person in Kearney.
Let's find the right support for your child
Call Mertens Counseling at 308-270-4988 or use our contact form to schedule a first appointment. We will answer your questions, listen without judgment, and help your child take the first step toward feeling better.