Child Counseling

Understanding OCD: How Westside Approaches Treatment

Child Counseling, Occupational Therapy

Every October, the International OCD Foundation hosts OCD Awareness Week to shed light on a condition that is often misunderstood. Many of us have heard people casually say, “I’m so OCD” when describing their preference for neatness or organization. While usually said in jest, this misconception diminishes the very real challenges faced by individuals – children included – who live with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). 

Navigating School Law and Ensuring Medically Necessary Therapy: What Parents Need to Know

ABA Therapy, Child Counseling, Occupational Therapy, Parent Education, Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy

If you’re the parent of a child with autism or developmental differences, you’ve likely faced tough questions about how to balance school and therapy. As your child reaches school age, you may find yourself wondering:

What Is ARFID? Understanding Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder in Kids

Child Counseling, Feeding Therapy

May marks both Pediatric Feeding Disorder Awareness Month and Mental Health Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to spotlight ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder). ARFID is a condition that involves both feeding and mental health challenges. 

Are All Emotions OK? Teaching Kids Emotional Awareness and Acceptance

Child Counseling

Have you ever felt unsure of how to respond when your child is angry, anxious, or overwhelmed? We’ve all been there – watching a full-blown meltdown unfold and wondering how to keep your cool. In those moments, it’s easy to see big emotions as something to fix or avoid. But the truth is, all emotions are a normal part of being human. 

Therapist with child

Counseling Benefits for Children.

Child Counseling, Parent Education

Looking back on the challenges you’ve faced in life, you might find yourself thinking, “I’m so glad I had someone to help me through that,” or even, “I wish I’d had a therapist at that time.” If you’re now a parent of a child who is struggling, you may be wondering if counseling could help them too.

Children in ABA therapy

Building a Strong Foundation: 10 Facts About ABA Therapy

ABA Therapy, Child Counseling

As parents, it’s natural to seek the best possible care and support for your child with Autism. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a leading and evidence-based intervention for individuals on the Autism Spectrum.

Pediatric Occupational therapists working with children.

7 important things to know about being a pediatric Occupational Therapist

Child Counseling, Uncategorized

A group of Westside Children’s Therapy Pediatric Occupational Therapists was asked what is essential to know in being an OT. 

The tips come straight from current Westside therapists who have built careers in the field.

Outside of the nitty-gritty part of actually treating a child, what do you have to know/do to be a successful Occupational Therapist?

therapy for kids anxiety photo at Westside Children's Therapy in Illinois

 10 Ways to Help with Anxiety at Home

Child Counseling

Anxiety can be a tricky emotion, and oftentimes, it masks as anger. Make sure to question what is making your child feel angry…the answer may reveal their true emotion of anxiety. If this is the case, make sure to help your child problem-solve and face their fears of whatever is causing that anxiety so they can move past this tough feeling.