Compassionate Child Therapy in Tampa, St. Petersburg & Sarasota
If your child is struggling, you don’t have to face it alone. Our experienced child therapists in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota support children ages 2–17 with compassionate, age-appropriate and evidence-based counseling. Our licensed child counselors utilize a combination of approaches including play therapy, behavioral therapy for kids, ADHD-focused counseling, cbt for kids, and practical guidance for parents.
Finding The Help You & Your Child Deserve
While adults and teenagers can communicate their emotional challenges verbally, children often don't yet have the language or brain development to effectively communicate how they are feeling or what has happened to them.
At IBW, we offer child therapy and family counseling services designed to meet children where they are developmentally. Our compassionate and skilled child behavioral therapists have experience in the leading therapeutic approaches, and most importantly the expertise to know when to use them appropriately.
Types of Child Therapy Offered in Tampa, St. Petersburg & Sarasota
There are several powerful, proven and evidence-based approaches we utilize in behavioral therapy for kids. One of the primary responsibilities of the therapist is accurately assess a child’s needs, and the utilize the best therapeutic approach to meet the unique needs of each child, family and situation. At It Begins Within Therapy, our team is trained in:
Play therapy is one of the most effective approaches for helping young children heal. It uses play as a means to help children express emotions and resolve conflicts. This is an incredible approach to therapy for toddlers who may struggle to verbalize their emotions.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT for kids) helps children recognize and change negative thought patterns. It is most effective for ages 8 and up.
Trauma counseling for kids near me - Trauma focused CBT is typically used with children and adolescents ages 5–17. It is also the most evidence-backed approaches for addressing childhood trauma.
Behavioral therapy is often used with children ages 3–12. It focuses on modifying behavior through reinforcement strategies (like praise, incentives, or planned ignoring), often effective for challenges like ADHD, tantrums, or defiance.
DBT & DBT-A helps kids who struggle with big emotions, impulsivity, or self-harm tendencies by teaching concrete skills in emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and healthy communication. It’s especially effective for children and adolescents healing from trauma, chronic stress, bullying, or family conflict.
Child-Parent Relationship Therapy is a powerful approach to pediatric behavioral therapy, it is a play-based approach that empowers parents how to strengthen emotional connection and reduce behavior issues, and can be effective with children as young as 3.
CBT for Childhood Anxiety is the gold standard treatment for pediatric anxiety. It helps children understand the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, while building skills to reduce worry, panic, or phobias.
Executive Function Coaching for ADHD – A strengths-based approach that supports children with ADHD in building focus, organization, emotional regulation, and self-monitoring. Often combined with behavioral therapy and parent support for best results.
Therapy for Toddlers & Preschoolers – Sensory integration for big feelings; addresses regression or separation anxiety.
Meet the Team | Child Therapists Near Me in St. Petersburg, Tampa & Sarasota
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![Nicole Young MSW LCSW child therapist specializing in CBT and mindfulness for kids and families in Sarasota, FL]()
Nicole Young, MSW, LCSW
Sarasota Child Therapist | CBT & Mindfulness for Kids, Teens & Families
Nicole specializes in supporting children through emotional growth, anxiety therapy, and relational shifts. She blends CBT, solution-focused strategies, and mindfulness to build resilience, foster self-confidence.
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![Ashley Canto, Tampa child therapist specializing in trauma and play therapy]()
Ashley Canto, MS, LCSW
St. Petersburg Child Therapist | Certified in TF-CBT, CPT, PMT & Play Therapy
Licensed Clinical Social Worker helping children, teens, and families heal from trauma using evidence-based approaches including TF-CBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Play Therapy, and Parent Management Training. -
![Sarasota child therapist julia lowei, lcsw]()
Julia Lowei, MSW, LCSW
Sarasota Child Therapist & Clinical Director | CBT & DBT for Children
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Julia. specializes in child and adolescent trauma, cognitive behavioral therapy for kids, and anxiety management -
![Ciana Nguyen, child and family therapist in Tampa with expertise in CBT, trauma recovery, and military family support]()
Ciana Nguyen, MS, LCSW
Tampa Child & Family Therapist | CBT, Trauma Recovery & Military Family Support
Licensed Clinical Social Worker with advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and child development. Ciana supports children, families, and Veterans through trauma-informed care, emotional regulation tools, and systems-based healing. -
![Megan Midura, Tampa child therapist using PCIT, play therapy, and trauma-informed care for emotional regulation]()
Megan Midura, LMHC
St. Petersburg Child Therapist | PCIT, TF-CBT & Play-Based Support for Emotional Regulation
Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in trauma-informed therapy for children and families. Megan blends PCIT, TF-CBT, and creative play strategies to help kids manage big emotions, build resilience, and strengthen caregiver connection. -
![Melissa Zentner, Tampa child and teen therapist trained in TF-CBT and performance-focused emotional regulation for pediatric counseling]()
Melissa Zentner, MS, LMHC
St. Petersburg Child & Teen Therapist | TF-CBT, Sports Performance & Stress Resilience
Licensed Mental Health Therapist specializing in Trauma-Focused CBT, supporting children and teens with anxiety, trauma, and emotional dysregulation. Melissa combines evidence-based therapy with performance coaching to help kids build confidence, cope with pressure, and thrive in school, sports, and life. -
![Lauren Pankuch, licensed child therapist in Tampa specializing in play therapy, CPRT, and trauma recovery]()
Lauren Pankuch, MA, LMHC
Tampa Child & Adolescent Therapist | Play Therapy, TF-CBT & Neurodivergence Support
Licensed Mental Health Counselor trained in Play Therapy, TF-CBT, and CPRT. Lauren helps children and teens navigate trauma, emotional regulation, and neurodivergent needs using creative, relational, and developmentally attuned therapy approaches. -
![Dr. Mary Perleoni, PhD, leading child therapist and counselor educator in Tampa specializing in trauma-informed care]()
Mary Perleoni, Ph.D., LMHC
Tampa Child Therapist & Clinical Supervisor | PhD in Trauma-Informed School-Based Counseling
Licensed Mental Health Counselor and counselor educator with a PhD from UCF. Dr. Perleoni specializes in child and adolescent trauma, school-based interventions, and supervising Florida’s next generation of exceptional therapists.
Why Parents in Sarasota, Tampa & St. Petersburg Choose IBW
In addition to being home to Tampa, Sarasota & St. Petersburg’s top child therapists, our team at IBW offers:
Trained pediatric counselors for children as young as 2.5 years old
Licensed clinicians specializing in therapy for autism, ADHD, and neurodivergent children
Group therapy for kids to build confidence, social skills, and emotional intelligence in a supportive peer setting
Providers of court-mandated therapy and diagnostic evaluations, with experience working alongside family courts, attorneys, and social service agencies
What tampa, Sarasota & st. petersburg parents are saying
Child Behavioral Therapy in Tampa, St. Petersburg & Sarasota
While child counseling often requires utilizing different techniques (compared to therapy with adults) its goals and objectives are similar. It is a supportive process that helps children cope with emotional, behavioral and developmental challenges. Our child therapists provide a space for children to freely express their feelings along with learning skills required to navigate with their emotions and their environment.
Getting started
When you reach out to It Begins Within our first step will be to identify a great child therapist near you that’s specialized in your child’s unique needs. Before ever working directly with your son or daughter, we will schedule a free evaluation call to ensure we fully understand your needs and do have the best fit possible.
parent involvement in kids counseling
It’s important to note that while we often will primarily be working with your child, the parent’s role in therapy is critical. Our pediatric therapists will strongly encourage parental involvement in the process, and offer guidance on effective approaches to bring into the home. If you are interested in learning more about the importance of parental involvement in the process, read our guide to parent involvement in the therapeutic process here.
UNDERSTANDING THE THERAPY PROCESS
Pediatric therapy in Tampa, St. Petersburg & Sarasota typically involves an initial assessment and followed by psychological services and interactive activities such as games (including art therapy & play therapy). After the pediatric therapist observes and communicates with the child, they will assess for a diagnosis, and work to to understand their concerns, fears, or struggles. Through these interactions our therapists help children to develop coping mechanisms and skills needed to regulate or express their motions.
OUTCOMES
The ultimate goal of behavioral and pediatric therapy is to improve functioning at home and in school, and help your child develop skills to cope with challenges. We focus on empowering children to understand and manage their emotions, improve their social skills, and navigate challenges more effectively.
How Long Will My Child Need Therapy For?
The duration of child counseling will vary based on the child's specific needs, presenting challenges, and the therapeutic approach. The overall length of therapy can range from just a few weeks to several months (or longer) depending on the situation.
We hold a standard at It Begins Within that our standard sessions are a true hour (60 minutes). Depending on your availability and the child’s needs, we often will prescribe a weekly or bi-weekly session treatment plan which is discussed in detail with the parents or caregivers.
Factors that influence duration & Outcomes
While there are a number of considerations which contribute to the length of therapy and the speed in which therapeutic goals are reached, we believe there are four primary factors.
The severity of your child’s issue or challenge, which will be assessed during the consultation and initial appointment.
Your child’s response to therapy (which will strongly be influenced by the following two)
Consistency in attendance
Parent’s involvement at home and in the process - we emphasize a collaborative approach with parents, their child and their therapist.
How Do I Know if My Child Needs Therapy or Counseling?
If you are currently concerned for your child’s wellbeing, we strongly encourage you to read a more comprehensive article we’ve written discussing the specific signs and considerations for identifying if your child can benefit from therapy.
signs of emotional trauma in a child | child counseling IN tampa, St. Petersburg & Sarasota
Is the behavior you are concerned about normal for their specific age?
Are they exhibiting persistent changes in mood such as prolonged sadness, excessive worry, or sudden withdrawal?
Is your child displaying sudden behavioral issues like aggression, defiance, or difficulties interacting with peers?
Are they functioning well at school and at home?
Have they developed physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches without apparent medical related causes?
Are they showing regression in previously acquired skills, such as bedwetting or thumb-sucking?
Ultimately communication is key - you will know your child’s behavioral patterns better than anyone. Trust your instincts as a parent, if you sense something is amiss or appears to be struggling, seeking the opinion of a child counselor can help determine if therapy is appropriate.
Please also note that if your child has experienced a traumatic event, loss, or major life change, therapy can provide crucial support. Our counselors are trauma informed practitioners licensed in Florida and are equipped to address various traumatic events that may be negatively impacting your child or teen.
If you are interested in learning more about how childhood experiences can ultimately shape your child’s self esteem, we invite you to read our guide.
How Bullying (Including Online Bullying) Impacts Children
Bullying today extends far beyond the classroom. Many children experience in-person bullying, social exclusion, or digital harassment through group chats, social media, and gaming platforms. Because these interactions follow them home, kids often feel like they have no safe space to decompress or process what’s happening.
For some children, bullying leads to anxiety, school avoidance, irritability, emotional withdrawal, low self-esteem, sleep issues, or sudden behavioral shifts that parents may not immediately connect to peer conflict. In more severe cases, chronic bullying can contribute to symptoms that resemble trauma responses.
Therapy gives children a supportive place to:
Talk openly about what’s happening without fear or shame
Build emotional resilience and confidence
Learn coping skills for anxiety, fear, and overwhelm
Develop language to communicate concerns to parents and teachers
Practice strategies for assertiveness, boundary-setting, and safer online engagement
Our child therapists in Sarasota, St. Petersburg, and Tampa help families navigate these challenges using evidence-based approaches that rebuild confidence and strengthen emotional regulation.
If you’d like a deeper breakdown of the signs to look for and how counseling can support children impacted by bullying, we encourage you to read our guide: Helping Your Child Cope with Bullying Through Therapy.
Understanding Childhood Trauma Therapy & Childhood PTSD
Childhood trauma doesn’t always look like we expect it to. It can result from major events such as accidents, medical procedures, loss, or abuse—but it can also stem from ongoing stress, family conflict, or sudden changes at home. Trauma in children often shows up through nightmares, separation anxiety, emotional withdrawal, aggression, regression (such as bedwetting), or sudden shifts in behavior that don’t seem to have a clear explanation.
As a child therapist and counselor educator, I want parents to know this: Children can heal from trauma—and the earlier we intervene, the more resilient their brains become.
At It Begins Within Therapy, our team offers trauma-informed child counseling using evidence-based approaches recommended by the NCTSN and SAMHSA, tailored to the developmental stage of your child.
When Medication & Pediatric Psychiatric Support Can Compliment Child Therapy
At It Begins Within Therapy, we take psychiatric care for children and teens extremely seriously. Before medication is ever considered, we begin with a comprehensive assessment or evaluation to understand your child’s symptoms, history, environment, and developmental needs. One of the benefits of working with our team is that your therapist and psychiatric provider collaborate closely, so you’re not receiving isolated opinions—you’re getting a unified, thoughtful treatment plan.
When appropriate, we may review bloodwork, medical history, or genetic testing to help guide decisions about safety and suitability. Pediatric psychiatric care is both an art and a science: a medication that works beautifully for one child may cause unwanted side effects for another. Our role is to use the best available research, our clinical judgment, and what we learn about your child to determine whether medication could meaningfully support their healing.
Most importantly, medication is never a first step. We only recommend it when it’s truly necessary, when it has a clear potential benefit, and when it aligns with the specific needs of your child and family. Our goal is always the same—to create the safest, most effective path forward so your child can thrive.
What Should I Expect with Behavioral Therapy for Kids?
In child therapy, you can expect a collaborative, family-focused and supportive process involving both the child and the counselors. During the initial intake process, the therapist will gather information about the child's history, concerns, and goals. The therapist will work to establish a trusting relationship with the child, creating a safe space for expression.
Sessions often involve age-appropriate activities, allowing the child to communicate and explore their feelings in a safe space. The therapist will observe behavior, identify patterns, and provide guidance to address challenges. Depending on the child's age and needs, sessions may likely include parental involvement.
adhd behavior therapy for kids
Our ADHD behavior therapy for children is designed to support energetic, curious, and passionate children. We help children to thrive at home, in school, and in their social relationships. We focus on building essential coping strategies, impulse control, and emotional regulation skills in a supportive, strengths-based environment. Learn more about our group for behavioral and emotional regulation for kids »
How Much Does Child Therapy Cost?
The cost of child therapy varies based on factors such as location, the pediatric counselors qualifications, and the type of therapy provided. Here at It Begins Within, specifically our South Tampa therapy and St. Petersburg therapy locations, our rates are $160 per hour, for a full 60 minute session, while our Family therapy rates are $215 per hour. These rates are typical in the Tampa, St. Petersburg & Sarasota area.
Child Therapists in Tampa, Sarasota & St. Petersburg
Child therapists play a crucial role in understanding and nurturing the mental health of young minds. Our specialized child counseling professionals focus on addressing the unique challenges children face, from developmental issues to emotional struggles.
By employing a variety of assessment tools, observation techniques, and communication strategies, we are able to help diagnose, identify and treat a range of issues such as: anxiety, trauma, and behavioral disorders. These interventions not only support the child, but also provide valuable guidance to parents and educators. In a world where the pressures on children continues to evolve, the work of child psychologists is instrumental in fostering resilience, emotional intelligence, and a foundation for a healthy future.
How To Approach Your Child About Therapy
Discussing the topic of therapy with a child requires sensitivity, open communication and an empathetic approach. Here are some suggestions on how to communicate with your child about therapy:
Choose an Appropriate Time - Find a quiet time to talk when you won't be rushed or interrupted. Ensure that you have enough time to discuss the matter calmly.
Use Simple Language - You may need to modify your language to your child's age and understanding. Use simple and clear explanations to convey the idea that counseling is a very normal and can help them feel better.
Emphasize Support - Frame the conversation positively by emphasizing that counseling is a resource to help them, not a punishment.
Be Honest and Direct - Be honest about why you believe counseling would be beneficial. You can mention specific behaviors, emotions, or challenges without placing blame.
Assure Confidentiality - Reassure your child that what they share with the therapist is private and that therapists are there to help, not to judge.
Listen to Their Feelings - Encourage your child to express their feelings and concerns. Acknowledge their emotions and let them know you care about them.
Involve Them in the Decision - Encourage your child in the decision making process. Ask for their input on what they think might be helpful and encourage them to share their thoughts and preferences.
Remember that discussing therapy may be an ongoing conversation. Be patient, understanding, and ready to answer any questions your child may have. If they are hesitant, consider attending a session together or meeting the therapist beforehand to alleviate concerns.
What Types of Issues Can Child Therapy Address?
Our Tampa child counseling services are tailored to address a wide range of challenges including:
Emotional Issues
Kids going through divorce
Behavior Challenges
Social Skills
Academic Struggles
Family Dynamics
Trauma and Loss
Developmental Delays
Autism Spectrum Disorders
Related Services
parent training
Parent training gives parents a set of tools to improve communication with their children or adolescents in a way that elicits a change in unwanted behavior.
family therapy
Because we do not work with insurance providers…
We are able to tailor therapy plans to the needs of each person and each child, without having to comply with common insurance limitations.
In-Person Child Therapy vs. Virtual
At It Begins Within our licensed therapists offer both in-person and virtual children's counseling sessions to meet families where they are. We often strongly recommend in-person therapy for children whenever possible though. Why? Because children communicate and connect through more than just words. Their play, body language, and energy often speak much more clearly than what they are able to articulate with their words. These subtle cues can be difficult to fully capture over a screen.
While it may be obvious, it’s important to note that in-person therapy provides a controlled and distraction-free environment where children can feel emotionally safe. Our child friendly offices in Tampa and St. Petersburg are designed to meet children where they are at, and allow for movement-based interventions that simply aren’t the same with online therapy.
Research supports this, too. A 2022 study published in Child and Adolescent Mental Health found that in-person therapy was significantly more effective for children under 12 experiencing anxiety and behavioral challenges, compared to virtual sessions.
That said, we understand that life gets busy. If virtual therapy is the only option that you have for you and your child, there is still significant benefit if the alternative is doing nothing.
Facts About Child Therapy
At It Begins Within Healing Center, we provide expert child therapy to families across Tampa, St. Petersburg, and the greater Tampa Bay area. This is especially true for children facing anxiety, behavioral challenges, or emotional difficulties in communities like Westshore, South Tampa, and Pinellas County.
Why Local Child Therapy Matters More Than Ever
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) reports that 17.4% of U.S. children aged 2–8, or about 4.2 million kids, have a diagnosed mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder.
In Florida, 11.9% of children aged 3–17 have experienced anxiety or depression, higher than the national average, impacting families across Tampa Bay. Source: Mental Health America
Commonly Asked Questions About Therapy for Children
At what age should my child start therapy?
Therapy can benefit children as young as 2.5 years of age when utilizing specialized approaches such as play therapy. According to Dr. Mary Perleoni, early intervention can significantly improve outcomes. Our child therapists are trained to provide age-appropriate support, creating a nurturing, safe, and engaging environment tailored specifically for your child's developmental stage and emotional needs.
What are the advantages of choosing a certified play therapist?
Choosing a certified play therapist ensures your child receives specialized, evidence-based care designed specifically for children’s developmental levels. Certified play therapists have advanced training in therapeutic play techniques proven to effectively address anxiety, trauma, behavioral issues, ADHD, and emotional regulation challenges. At IBW, our certified play therapists offer a confidential, interactive, and supportive environment that empowers children to express themselves naturally, building confidence, resilience, and healthy coping skills.
How soon can my child start therapy at IBWHC?
We prioritize timely care and aim to get your child started within 24-48 hours of your initial contact, dependent upon your and your specific clinicians availability. We also offer a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation to better understand your child’s needs and ensure alignment with your clinicians approach.
Do you provide therapy specifically designed for toddlers?
Yes, at It Begins Within we provide therapy specifically tailored for toddlers. Our toddler-focused therapy sessions often utilize a play-based interventions that are developmentally appropriate, enhance emotional regulation, language skills, and social relationships.
What are signs of mental health issues in children?
Common signs include sudden and prolonged changes in mood or behavior, difficulty managing emotions, withdrawal from friends or activities, frequent tantrums, trouble concentrating, sleep problems, or regression in developmental milestones. If these patterns persist for more than a few weeks, a licensed child therapist can help identify whether it’s stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, or another concern.
What type of therapy is best for kids?
The best therapy depends on your child’s needs. Evidence-based options include play therapy for younger children, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for anxiety and behavior issues, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for improving parent-child relationships, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Adolescents (DBT-A) for emotional regulation in older children. At It Begins Within, our Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota therapists tailor approaches to your child’s age, personality, and goals.
How do I know if my child has ADHD or anxiety?
Only a qualified professional can diagnose ADHD or anxiety. Signs of ADHD include persistent inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity across settings (home, school, social). Anxiety often shows up as excessive worry, stomachaches, headaches, avoidance of certain activities, or irritability. A child therapist can conduct assessments, collaborate with your child’s school, and provide strategies for support.
What does behavioral therapy for children involve?
Behavioral therapy helps children replace challenging behaviors with healthier skills. Sessions may include role-playing, skill-building activities, and positive reinforcement strategies. Parent involvement is often part of the process, ensuring skills are practiced consistently at home. This approach is effective for ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, tantrums, social skills, and emotional regulation.
How do I choose the right child therapist near me?
Look for licensed therapists with specialized training in child development and evidence-based interventions. Consider their experience with your child’s age group, therapy style, and ability to involve parents in the process. At It Begins Within, you can review detailed therapist bios and choose a provider who fits your family’s needs in Tampa, St. Petersburg, or Sarasota.
Can a 4-year-old go to therapy?
Yes. Many therapists specialize in early childhood therapy using play-based approaches that help young children express themselves and learn coping skills in an age-appropriate way.
Kids Counseling Near Me in Florida
Therapy for kids in st. petersburg, fl
Our St. Petersburg child therapists provide compassionate, play-based, and behavioral therapy for children ages 3–12 throughout Pinellas County—including Clearwater, Largo, Gulfport, Seminole, Feather Sound, and Treasure Island. We help kids manage anxiety, ADHD, and big emotions using evidence-based approaches like CBT, PCIT, and play therapy. Parents receive practical coaching and strategies to strengthen family communication and confidence at home.
child therapy in tampa, fl
At our Tampa office near Westshore and South Tampa, we specialize in child counseling and behavioral therapy for families across Hillsborough County, including Hyde Park, Carrollwood, Brandon, Riverview, and Apollo Beach. Our licensed therapists use CBT and PCIT to help children with emotional regulation, focus, and resilience. We partner closely with parents to create calm, connection, and lasting progress beyond the therapy room.
behavioral therapy for children in sarasota, fl
Our Sarasota therapists offer individualized behavioral therapy for kids near Lakewood Ranch, Palmer Ranch, Siesta Key, and University Park. We help children manage transitions, anxiety, and social challenges through a blend of play therapy, mindfulness, and emotional skills training. Parents trust IBWHC to provide supportive, evidence-based care that builds self-esteem, balance, and healthy family relationships.
Finding the Best Kids Counseling Near Me
Our comprehensive mental health services for children, teens and families. We are dedicated to the best outcome for our clients. Reach out to us today start your families healing journey with one of our skilled child behavioral therapist.