Children, adolescents, and young adults can have behavioral problems for many reasons. If there are problems with fighting, disrespect, and disobedience Therapy SRQ has therapy to help.

Behavioral therapy session for kids in Sarasota FL

Behavioral Therapy for Kids in Sarasota: What Parents Should Know

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Behavioral challenges in children can strain the entire family. When your child frequently has meltdowns, acts aggressively, refuses to follow rules, or struggles with emotional regulation, daily life can feel exhausting. The good news is that behavioral therapy provides proven strategies to help children and families build healthier patterns.

Understanding Behavioral Issues in Children

All children misbehave sometimes. That is a normal part of development. However, when behavioral issues are persistent, severe, or significantly disrupting your child’s ability to function at home, school, or with peers, professional support can make a real difference.

Common behavioral challenges we see at Therapy SRQ in Sarasota include frequent tantrums beyond the typical age, physical aggression toward others, persistent defiance or oppositional behavior, difficulty following directions at school, emotional outbursts that seem disproportionate, and trouble making or maintaining friendships.

The American Psychological Association (APA) distinguishes between normal developmental behavior and clinically significant behavioral problems. A child throwing a tantrum at age 2 is developmentally typical; a child having daily explosive outbursts at age 8 that disrupt the classroom and household is not. When these patterns persist for more than a few weeks and occur across multiple settings, a professional evaluation is recommended.

What Causes Behavioral Problems

Behavior is communication. When a child acts out, they are often expressing an unmet need or struggling with an emotion they cannot manage. Underlying causes may include anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, family transitions, or developmental challenges. Our Sarasota practice offers specialized support for each of these, including anxiety therapy in Sarasota, depression counseling in Sarasota, FL, and ADHD therapy in Sarasota. Identifying the root cause is essential to effective treatment.

Environmental factors also play a significant role. Inconsistent discipline, major family changes like divorce or a new sibling, academic struggles, peer conflict, and even screen time and sleep disruption can all contribute to behavioral difficulties. A thorough assessment looks at the whole picture — not just the behavior itself — to develop an effective treatment plan.

How Behavioral Therapy Works

Our behavioral therapy approach in Sarasota combines several evidence-based techniques. For younger children, play therapy in Sarasota helps them express and process the emotions driving their behavior. For older children and teens in Sarasota, cognitive behavioral strategies help them understand the connection between thoughts, feelings, and actions.

A key component is teaching children replacement behaviors. Rather than simply telling a child to stop acting out, we help them learn what to do instead. This might include calming techniques such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation, communication skills for expressing frustration verbally rather than physically, problem-solving strategies they can apply independently, and self-regulation tools like emotional check-ins and sensory breaks.

Therapy sessions also focus on building emotional literacy. Many children who act out simply do not have the vocabulary or awareness to identify what they are feeling. Learning to name emotions like frustration, disappointment, embarrassment, or jealousy gives children a critical tool for managing their responses.

The Role of Parents in Behavioral Change

Parent involvement through family therapy in Sarasota is critical to lasting behavioral change. At Therapy SRQ, we work with parents to develop consistent, positive discipline strategies that reinforce the skills your child is learning in therapy. Small shifts in how the family communicates and sets boundaries often lead to dramatic improvements in a child’s behavior.

Parent coaching is an integral part of our approach. This includes learning to set clear and consistent expectations, using natural and logical consequences rather than punishment, reinforcing positive behaviors with specific praise, and staying calm during escalations so you can model the emotional regulation you want your child to develop. The AACAP emphasizes that parent-involved behavioral interventions produce stronger and more lasting results than child-only therapy for most behavioral concerns.

Behavioral Therapy in Sarasota and Venice FL

If your child’s behavior is causing stress for your family, you do not have to figure it out alone. Christine Murawski, LMHC provides behavioral therapy in Sarasota and behavioral therapy in Venice at our Sarasota office and Venice office. We serve families from Lakewood Ranch, Palmer Ranch, North Port, and surrounding communities. Call or text (941) 202-3432 to start building a calmer, more connected household.

Family therapy and counseling in Sarasota FL

What to do when your child has a meltdown

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As a parent, you know that raising a child comes with its fair share of challenges. One of the most difficult situations to handle is when your child has a meltdown. Whether it’s in public or at home, these outbursts can be overwhelming and leave you feeling helpless. But don’t worry, there are strategies you can use to manage your child’s behavior and help them through a meltdown. Behavioral therapy in Sarasota and behavioral therapy in Venice can also provide professional guidance for managing these difficult moments.

In this article, we’ll discuss what to do when your child has a meltdown and how to handle these situations in a calm and effective manner.

Understanding Meltdowns

Before we dive into strategies for managing meltdowns, it’s important to understand what they are and why they happen. A meltdown is an intense emotional outburst that can be triggered by a variety of factors, such as frustration, sensory overload, or feeling overwhelmed.

For children, meltdowns are a common response to feeling out of control or unable to express their emotions effectively. If anxiety is a contributing factor, anxiety therapy in Sarasota or anxiety therapy in Venice can help. They may also occur when a child is tired, hungry, or overstimulated. It’s important to remember that meltdowns are a normal part of child development and are not a reflection of your parenting skills.

Recognizing the Signs of a Meltdown

Child having a meltdownby Austrian National Library (https://unsplash.com/@austriannationallibrary)

Meltdowns can manifest in different ways depending on the child, but there are some common signs to look out for. These may include:

  • Crying or screaming
  • Kicking, hitting, or biting
  • Throwing objects
  • Running away
  • Clenching fists or teeth
  • Refusing to listen or follow instructions
  • Withdrawing or shutting down

It’s important to pay attention to your child’s behavior and recognize the signs of a meltdown before it escalates. This will allow you to intervene early and help your child calm down.

Strategies for Managing Meltdowns

When your child is having a meltdown, it can be tempting to react with frustration or anger. However, this will only escalate the situation and make it more difficult to manage. Instead, try these strategies for managing meltdowns in a calm and effective manner.

Stay Calm and Validate Their Feelings

The first step in managing a meltdown is to stay calm yourself. Take a deep breath and remind yourself that your child is not intentionally trying to upset you. It’s important to validate their feelings and let them know that it’s okay to feel upset.

You can say something like, “I can see that you’re feeling really frustrated right now. That’s okay, let’s take some deep breaths together and figure out how to make things better.”

Remove Your Child from the Situation

If possible, remove your child from the situation that is causing the meltdown. This could mean leaving a store, going to a quiet room, or simply stepping outside for some fresh air. Removing your child from the source of their frustration can help them calm down and regain control of their emotions.

Use Distraction Techniques

Child playing with toysby Annie Spratt (https://unsplash.com/@anniespratt)

Distraction techniques can be helpful in redirecting your child’s attention away from the meltdown. This could include offering them a favorite toy or book, playing a game, or engaging in a calming activity like drawing or coloring. Play therapy in Sarasota and play therapy in Venice use similar creative approaches to help children process emotions. By shifting their focus, you can help your child calm down and move on from the meltdown.

Practice Deep Breathing

Deep breathing is a powerful tool for managing emotions and can be especially helpful during a meltdown. Encourage your child to take deep breaths with you, counting to three on the inhale and three on the exhale. This can help them regulate their breathing and calm their body and mind.

Use Positive Reinforcement

After your child has calmed down, it’s important to praise them for their efforts. This can help reinforce positive behavior and encourage them to use the strategies you’ve taught them in the future. You can say something like, “I’m so proud of you for calming down and using your deep breathing. That was really helpful.”

Preventing Meltdowns in the Future

While it’s impossible to prevent all meltdowns, there are steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of them occurring in the future. Here are some tips for preventing meltdowns and promoting positive behavior in your child.

Establish a Routine

Children thrive on routine and structure, so establishing a daily routine can help them feel more in control and reduce the likelihood of meltdowns. This could include set meal times, nap times, and bedtime, as well as a consistent morning and evening routine.

Communicate Clearly and Listen to Your Child

Parent and child talkingby Ismail Salad Osman Hajji dirir (https://unsplash.com/@hajjidirir)

Effective communication is key to preventing meltdowns. Make sure to listen to your child and validate their feelings, even if you don’t agree with them. This will help them feel heard and understood, reducing the likelihood of a meltdown.

Teach Coping Strategies

Teaching your child coping strategies can help them manage their emotions and prevent meltdowns. This could include deep breathing, counting to ten, or taking a break in a quiet space. Practice these strategies with your child when they are calm so they can use them when they are feeling overwhelmed. Family therapy in Sarasota and family therapy in Venice can help the whole family learn and reinforce these coping strategies together.

Set Clear Expectations and Consequences

Children need structure and boundaries to feel secure. Make sure to set clear expectations for behavior and consequences for breaking rules. This will help your child understand what is expected of them and what will happen if they don’t follow the rules.

When to Seek Professional Help

While meltdowns are a normal part of child development, there are times when they may be a sign of a larger issue. If your child’s meltdowns are frequent, intense, or impacting their daily life, it may be time to seek professional help from a licensed mental health counselor.

A therapist or counselor can help you and your child develop strategies for managing meltdowns and addressing any underlying issues that may be contributing to their behavior.

Conclusion

Meltdowns are a common challenge for parents, but with the right strategies, you can help your child manage their emotions and prevent future outbursts. Remember to stay calm, validate your child’s feelings, and use distraction techniques to help them calm down. With consistency and patience, you can help your child learn to manage their emotions and behavior in a healthy way.

Therapy SRQ helps families at our Sarasota office and Venice office. We also welcome families from Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, Siesta Key, and Osprey and Nokomis. Contact us at (941) 202-3432.

Parents sitting with toddler providing behavior guidance in Sarasota FL

What do do when your toddler bites or hits

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As a parent, it can be difficult to know how to handle your toddler’s aggressive behavior. Whether it’s biting, hitting, or throwing tantrums, these behaviors can be frustrating and overwhelming. However, it’s important to remember that these behaviors are a normal part of a toddler’s development and can be managed with the right approach. Behavioral therapy in Sarasota and behavioral therapy in Venice can help families develop effective strategies.

In this article, we’ll discuss effective strategies for handling your toddler’s biting and hitting, including tips for disciplining an autistic toddler and incorporating Montessori principles into your discipline approach.

Understanding the Reasons Behind Aggressive Behavior

Before we dive into strategies for handling aggressive behavior, it’s important to understand why your toddler may be acting out in this way. Toddlers are still learning how to communicate and regulate their emotions, and aggressive behavior is often a result of frustration or a lack of understanding. Play therapy in Sarasota and play therapy in Venice use age-appropriate techniques to help children express themselves.

Additionally, toddlers may also be imitating behaviors they see from others, such as older siblings or peers. In some cases, aggressive behavior can also be a sign of an underlying issue, such as sensory processing difficulties or developmental delays.

By understanding the reasons behind your toddler’s behavior, you can better address the root cause and find effective solutions.

Responding to Biting

Toddler bitingby Kiana Bosman (https://unsplash.com/@capturedby_kiana)

Biting is a common behavior among toddlers, and it can be a challenging one for parents to handle. Here are some tips for responding to biting:

  • Stay calm: It’s important to remain calm and not overreact when your toddler bites. This will help prevent the behavior from escalating and show your child that biting is not an effective way to get attention.
  • Address the behavior: After your child bites, calmly tell them that biting is not okay and explain why. For example, you can say, “Biting hurts our friends. We use our words to tell them how we feel.”
  • Offer alternatives: Toddlers often bite because they don’t know how else to express themselves. Offer alternative ways for your child to communicate, such as using words or gestures.
  • Be consistent: Consistency is key when it comes to addressing biting. Make sure all caregivers are on the same page and respond to biting in a similar manner. Family therapy in Sarasota and family therapy in Venice can help families build consistent approaches.

Responding to Hitting

Hitting is another common behavior among toddlers, and it can be just as challenging to handle as biting. Here are some tips for responding to hitting:

  • Stay calm: As with biting, it’s important to remain calm and not overreact when your toddler hits. This will help prevent the behavior from escalating and show your child that hitting is not an effective way to get attention.
  • Address the behavior: After your child hits, calmly tell them that hitting is not okay and explain why. For example, you can say, “Hitting hurts our friends. We use gentle hands to show them we care.”
  • Teach empathy: Toddlers are still learning how to understand and express their emotions. Help them develop empathy by asking them how they think their friend felt when they hit them.
  • Model appropriate behavior: Children learn by watching those around them. Make sure you are modeling appropriate behavior and using gentle hands when interacting with your child.

Disciplining an Autistic Toddler

Disciplining an autistic toddler may require a different approach than disciplining a neurotypical child. Here are some tips for effectively disciplining an autistic toddler:

  • Use visual aids: Many autistic children respond well to visual aids, such as pictures or charts, to help them understand expectations and consequences.
  • Be consistent: Autistic children often thrive on routine and consistency. Make sure to establish clear rules and consequences and stick to them.
  • Use positive reinforcement: Instead of focusing on negative behaviors, try to catch your child being good and praise them for it. This will help reinforce positive behaviors.
  • Be patient: It may take longer for an autistic toddler to understand and follow rules, so be patient and give them time to learn and adjust. ADHD therapy in Sarasota and ADHD therapy in Venice provide specialized support for neurodivergent children.

Incorporating Montessori Principles into Discipline

Montessori toddlerby Alexander Dummer (https://unsplash.com/@4dgraphic)

Montessori principles can also be applied to discipline and can help foster independence and self-regulation in toddlers. Here are some ways to incorporate Montessori principles into your discipline approach:

  • Encourage independence: Toddlers are eager to do things on their own, and allowing them to do so can help build their confidence and self-esteem. Encourage your child to do tasks such as dressing themselves or helping with chores.
  • Provide choices: Giving your child choices can help them feel more in control and reduce the likelihood of tantrums. For example, instead of telling your child what to wear, offer them two options to choose from.
  • Set clear boundaries: Montessori principles emphasize the importance of setting clear boundaries and expectations for children. Make sure your child knows what is expected of them and what the consequences will be for breaking rules.
  • Use natural consequences: Instead of punishing your child for negative behavior, allow them to experience natural consequences. For example, if your child throws a toy, they will not be able to play with it for a certain amount of time.

Conclusion

Handling your toddler’s aggressive behavior can be challenging, but with the right approach, it can be managed effectively. Remember to stay calm, address the behavior, and be consistent in your approach. By understanding the reasons behind your child’s behavior and incorporating strategies such as those from Montessori principles, you can help your toddler learn to regulate their emotions and communicate effectively.

If your child’s aggressive behavior persists, Christine Murawski, LMHC at Therapy SRQ can help. We serve families at our Sarasota office and Venice office, as well as families from Palmer Ranch, Siesta Key, and North Port. Contact us at (941) 202-3432.

Mother comforting child on couch helping them calm down in Sarasota FL

How to Help Your Child Calm Down

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As a parent, it can be challenging to watch your child struggle with intense emotions. Whether it’s a tantrum, meltdown, or just general restlessness, it’s natural to want to help your child calm down and find peace. If your child regularly struggles with intense emotions, anxiety therapy in Sarasota or anxiety therapy in Venice, FL can help. However, it’s not always easy to know the best way to do so.

In this article, we’ll explore some effective techniques for helping your child calm down and find a sense of peace.

Why Is It Important to Help Your Child Calm Down?

Children, especially young ones, are still learning how to regulate their emotions. They may not have the tools or skills to calm themselves down when they become overwhelmed. As a parent, it’s important to help your child learn how to manage their emotions in a healthy way.

By teaching your child how to calm down, you are also helping them develop important life skills that will benefit them in the long run. Learning how to regulate emotions can lead to better self-control, improved communication, and stronger relationships. Behavioral therapy in Sarasota and behavioral therapy in Venice can support this developmental process.

The Benefits of Quiet Time

Child in quiet timeby Annie Spratt (https://unsplash.com/@anniespratt)

One effective way to help your child calm down is by implementing quiet time. This is a designated period where your child can have some alone time to relax and recharge. Quiet time can be especially helpful for children who are easily overstimulated or have trouble calming down.

Quiet time can also be beneficial for parents, as it gives them a chance to take a break and recharge as well. It’s a win-win situation for both parent and child.

Child Calming Techniques

There are many different techniques you can use to help your child calm down. Here are a few effective methods to try:

Deep Breathing

Deep breathing is a simple yet powerful technique for calming down. Encourage your child to take slow, deep breaths in through their nose and out through their mouth. You can even make it into a game by having them imagine they are blowing up a balloon with each breath.

Counting

Counting is another effective way to help your child calm down. Have them count slowly to 10 or 20, focusing on each number as they say it. This can help distract them from their emotions and bring them back to the present moment.

Visualization

Visualization is a technique that involves imagining a peaceful or happy place. Encourage your child to close their eyes and picture a place that makes them feel calm and safe. This could be a beach, a forest, or even their own bedroom. Ask them to describe what they see, hear, and feel in their peaceful place.

Sensory Activities

Sensory activities can be incredibly calming for children. These activities involve using different senses, such as touch, sight, and smell, to help your child relax. Some examples of sensory activities include playing with playdough, using a sensory bin filled with rice or beans, or using a calming essential oil diffuser. Play therapy in Sarasota and play therapy in Venice incorporate many of these sensory techniques in a therapeutic setting.

How to Implement Quiet Time

Set a Designated Time

Child playing with toysby zhenzhong liu (https://unsplash.com/@lzzbest)

The first step in implementing quiet time is to set a designated time for it. This could be a specific time of day, such as after lunch or before bedtime, or it could be triggered by a certain event, such as a tantrum or meltdown.

It’s important to be consistent with the timing of quiet time so that your child knows what to expect and can prepare for it.

Create a Calm Environment

The environment in which your child has quiet time is crucial. It should be a calm, quiet, and comfortable space where your child can relax and unwind. This could be their bedroom, a cozy corner in the living room, or even a designated “calm down” area.

Make sure the space is free from distractions, such as toys or electronics, and that it is a safe and peaceful environment for your child.

Encourage Relaxing Activities

During quiet time, encourage your child to engage in relaxing activities. This could include reading a book, coloring, listening to calming music, or playing with a sensory bin. Avoid activities that are too stimulating, such as watching TV or playing video games.

Be Patient and Supportive

It’s important to be patient and supportive during quiet time. Your child may resist at first, especially if they are used to constant stimulation. Be understanding and give them time to adjust to this new routine.

If your child is having a particularly difficult time calming down, offer them words of encouragement and remind them that it’s okay to feel upset. Let them know that you are there for them and that you believe in their ability to calm down.

Additional Tips for Helping Your Child Calm Down

Lead by Example

Parent and child meditatingby Timon Studler (https://unsplash.com/@derstudi)

Children learn by example, so it’s important to model calm and peaceful behavior for them. If you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed, take a few deep breaths and practice some calming techniques yourself. This will show your child that it’s okay to take a break and calm down when they are feeling overwhelmed.

Use Positive Reinforcement

When your child successfully calms down, be sure to praise and reward them. This will reinforce the behavior and encourage them to continue using these techniques in the future. Family therapy in Sarasota and family therapy in Venice can help the whole family learn positive reinforcement strategies.

Seek Professional Help if Needed

If your child is consistently struggling to regulate their emotions and calm down, it may be beneficial to seek professional help. A licensed mental health counselor can work with your child to develop coping strategies and techniques for managing their emotions. At Therapy SRQ we are here to help.

Conclusion

Helping your child calm down is an important part of parenting. By implementing quiet time and teaching your child calming techniques, you can help them develop important life skills and manage their emotions in a healthy way. Remember to be patient, supportive, and lead by example, and your child will learn how to find peace and calm in even the most challenging situations.

Therapy SRQ serves families at our Sarasota office and Venice office. We also work with families from Lakewood Ranch, Siesta Key, Palmer Ranch, and North Port.

    Child with behavior problems at school - behavioral therapy in Sarasota and Venice FL

    Behavior problems starting school? Get your child the help they need!

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    Behavior problems in school

    Behavior problems are commonly seen with transitioning back to school. Parents, teachers and students start with an optimistic view on a “fresh start” and a new grade. However, typically within a few weeks, things start to slide. As a result, often we are frustrated that expectations are not met.

    Approximately 1 in 5 children ages 13-18 have or will have behavior problems at school that lead to serious mental illness according to National Alliance on Mental Illness. Consequently, students drop out or get stuck in the juvenile justice system. There is never enough eyes to monitor a child’s well being. As a result, KXAN a NCB affiliated television station in Austin, Texas is exploring potential solutions by developing Save our Students (S.O.S) This healthcare initiative is helping educate teachers, staff, bus drivers and parents understand and take action of mental health concerns with students. S.O.S stresses it is not your job to fix but be aware something is happening and get the child to where they need to get help.

    As parents…how can we help?

    Parents need to model on how to deal with mental health issues. First, you need to develop a language around mental illness to talk to your kids. Next, you must advocate for them to speak up when needed. Similarly, we all need to recognize as adults, we struggle too. It is equally important for parents to ensure they are taking time for their needs. As a result, modeling positive coping skills and problem solving techniques benefit you as well!

    Often times behavioral problems can be the result of underlying mental health disorders. As a result, these problems can have a negative change on the way children learn. It can effect their behavior, emotions, causing distress and struggling to get through the day. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Depression, anxiety and behavior disorders are the most common among adolescents.

    Depression in adolescents

    • Frequent and longer periods of sadness or unexplained crying spells
    • changes in appetite and sleep patterns
    • Irritability, anger, worry, agitation, anxiety
    • Pessimism, indifference
    • Loss of energy, chronically feeling tired
    • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, hopelessness
    • Not able to concentrate, indecisiveness
    • Inability to find pleasure in usual interests, social withdrawal
    • Physical symptoms of unexplained aches and pains
    • Recurring thoughts of death or suicide

    Anxiety in adolescents

    • Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, frequent nightmares
    • Feeling on edge/Irritable
    • Difficulty concentrating
    • Restlessness
    • Unexplained outbursts
    • Avoiding social interactions with friends
    • Avoiding extracurricular activities
    • Spending more time alone
    • Changes in grades, missed assignments
    • Procrastination or increased difficulty concentrating on academics
    • Increased heartbeat/dizziness
    • Frequently sweating
    • Upset stomach
    • Derealization

    If your child appears to be struggling with symptoms of these common adolescent problems in school, home or daily functioning its important to get help. These problems are treatable and most adolescents can learn to cope and manage their symptoms. Please call Therapy SRQ today at (941) 202-3432 for a free consultation.

    Getting Ahead of the Problem

    The AACAP recommends a professional evaluation when behavioral issues are persistent and affecting multiple areas of a child’s life. But you don’t have to wait until it’s a full-blown crisis. If the school calls are piling up and the strategies you’ve tried at home aren’t making a dent, that’s a clear signal. What we do in our practice is figure out what’s driving the behavior — not just what it looks like on the surface. A child who acts out in school might be anxious, struggling with attention, processing a family change, or dealing with something a teacher wouldn’t know about. Once we understand the root, we can work on it. Behavioral therapy gives kids concrete tools: how to calm down when they’re flooded, how to use words instead of actions, how to handle frustration without melting down. For younger kids, play therapy works with their natural way of processing the world. And we always involve parents — consistency between home and sessions is what makes the difference stick. If your child is struggling as they settle into school, reach out. Call or text (941) 202-3432 to connect with our Sarasota or Venice office.
    Teen mental health and screen time - video games and internet therapy support in Sarasota FL

    “Mental Health, Video Games and the Internet”…

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    teen playing video games
    2 important factors to monitor with your child’s gaming- Time spent and content.

    An interview with NPR reveals President Trump’s commentary about the recent mass shootings in El Paso, Texas. https://www.npr.org/2019/08/05/748247918/president-trump-blames-recent-mass-shootings-on-mental-health-video-games-intern The president specifically called out “Mental Health, Video Games and the Internet” as the leading factors affecting the shooters. So, let’s discuss these factors.

    Firstly, we know the importance of mental health awareness and education. However, how can we ensure that it;s not “in one ear and out the other” for our kids? Take the time to check in with your child. New friends, new projects, new feelings…it’s all there, connect with them! It’s important for youth to have strong relationships with their family and friends. Help your child develop resilience by supporting them to solve problems that arise and let them know they can turn to you for help! Be aware of their internet, social media, gaming and television use. Most importantly, not only the duration but the content. Be a role model by practicing what you preach, ensure you take care of your own mental health and have time for things you enjoy.

    Unfortunately, all too often kids don’t get help soon enough. Mental health problems may go unnoticed or ignored. Parents may not know the warning signs or who to contact. Mental health issues can manifest in many different ways including a decline in grades, problems with friends and sneaky behavior. Mental Health problems can have serious effects on your child’s development and quality of life. Getting help early is so important. If you believe your child could be struggling, please call Therapy SRQ at (941) 202-3432.

    What Should Parents Actually Do?

    Look, the research is clear that screen time itself isn’t inherently evil. The AAP and most child psychologists agree that what kids consume and how it affects their behavior matters more than raw hours. A kid playing Minecraft creatively is in a very different situation than one watching violent content unsupervised for hours.

    That said, there are real red flags. If your child gets unusually angry or aggressive after gaming, has trouble transitioning away from screens, is losing interest in friends or activities they used to enjoy, or their grades are slipping — those are signs the screen time is becoming a problem, not just a pastime.

    Start with the content. Sit down and watch or play with your kid. Know what games they’re playing and who they’re talking to online. Then look at the patterns — is the screen replacing real-world connection, or supplementing it? That distinction matters.

    Getting Support

    If you’ve tried setting boundaries at home and it’s not sticking — or if the behavioral issues seem bigger than just screen time — that’s a good time to bring in help. A therapist can dig into what’s driving the excessive use. Sometimes it’s boredom, sometimes it’s anxiety, sometimes it’s a way to avoid something uncomfortable at school or with friends.

    For younger kids, play therapy gives them a way to process what’s going on without needing to articulate it perfectly. For older kids and teens, behavioral therapy can help them build better habits and self-regulation around technology.

    We see these issues a lot at our Sarasota and Venice offices. If your gut is telling you something’s off with your child’s screen habits, trust it. Parents often second-guess themselves — “maybe all kids do this” — but you know your child. If they’re not themselves, that matters.

    We work with families from throughout the Sarasota area, including Bradenton, Palmer Ranch, and Englewood. Call or text (941) 202-3432 to talk about what’s going on.

    Teen self-harm awareness and support - adolescent therapy in Sarasota and Venice FL

    Self harm or “Cutting” and why does our youth do it?

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    teen cutting
    Red raised marks on this teen’s arm are the result of cutting.

    Self harm or “cutting” appears to be an increasing epidemic in our youth. Working with youth in schools and various settings since 2001, it seems to have taken off. So, why cut? Cutting is used as a way to cope with the discomfort of powerful emotions. For instance, bullying, self-esteem issues, relationship problems are all common stressors that are behind this negative coping mechanism. Perhaps their feelings are so intense that they don’t quite have the coping mechanisms to relieve the emotional pain.

    Lyness D’arcy at Teenhealth.org https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/cutting.html explains that teens can cope better with major life events and overwhelming emotions with the help of a mental health professional. Self harm or “cutting” can become habit forming by the person getting a false sense of relief from cutting. The brain starts to connect the false sense of relief to the cutting behavior. As a result, the behaviors can feel like an addiction. A person may feel that they need to cut to cope with their feelings. When they have difficult feelings, the thoughts go to cutting.

    Identify the trouble that’s triggering the cutting. Cutting is a way of reacting to emotional tension or pain. Try to figure out what feelings or situations are causing you to cut. Is it anger? Pressure to be perfect? Relationship trouble? A painful loss or trauma? Mean criticism or mistreatment? Identify the trouble you’re having, then tell someone about it. Many people have trouble figuring this part out on their own. This is where a mental health professional can be helpful. http://sioutreach.org/

    If you or someone you love have a problem cutting please reach out for help. Admitting you need help can be challenging. Cutting can make you conceal your feelings from the world even more. A feeling of shame is commonly associated with these behaviors. However, many feel a sense of relief after telling a trusted adult. Forms of non-suicidal self injury are not something to dismiss. If you need further help or guidance, please call Therapy SRQ at (941) 202-3432.

    What Parents Should Watch For

    Self-harm isn’t always obvious. Teens who cut are often very good at hiding it. Long sleeves in summer, reluctance to change for gym class, or unexplained scratches they brush off as accidents from the cat — these are things to notice. But more than the physical signs, pay attention to emotional shifts. If your teen seems increasingly distressed, withdraws from the people they usually trust, or seems to carry a heaviness they can’t explain, that’s worth a conversation. One of the hardest things for parents is knowing how to respond. Your instinct might be fear, anger, or even disbelief. All understandable. But what your teen needs to hear is: “I’m not angry. I’m worried. And I want to help you figure this out.” NAMI recommends approaching without shock or judgment — teens who feel shamed are less likely to open up about what they’re going through.

    How Therapy Helps

    In our practice, we work with teens to understand what’s driving the self-harm — the emotions underneath it — and build healthier ways to cope with that pain. It’s not about just stopping the behavior; it’s about giving your teen better tools so they don’t need it. This often involves working with the whole family, because self-harm affects everyone. Family therapy can help parents learn how to support their teen without accidentally making things worse, and individual teen sessions give your child space to process at their own pace. If your teen is self-harming, please don’t wait. Call or text Therapy SRQ at (941) 202-3432. We have offices in Sarasota and Venice. If there’s immediate danger, call or text 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline).

    Positive parenting tips and family therapy strategies in Sarasota FL

    Positive Parenting Tips

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