Counseling for Children with Special Needs
Haslet, Fort Worth & Keller, TX
Helping Your Child Navigate Their Special Abilities
As a parent, navigating the world of special needs can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Amy Fowler Therapy in Haslet, Texas, we understand the unique challenges that come with raising a child who has a developmental disability, learning disability, or mental health condition. Our specialized counseling services are designed to support both children with special needs and their families, helping them thrive despite the obstacles they may encounter. Amy has extensive experience in providing child therapy for children with special needs.
Amy Fowler:
Expertise and Experience
Amy Fowler, a seasoned school counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA), is dedicated to helping children move towards wholeness. With over 17 years of experience working with children and adolescents, Amy has honed her skills in addressing a wide range of mental health issues. She holds a Master of Education in Counseling and specializes in working with children. She has extensive experience helping children who have special needs, including learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, behavioral issues, and emotional disturbances.
Amy’s unique approach combines evidence-based techniques to create a supportive and judgement-free environment where children can thrive. Her extensive experience and deep understanding of child psychology allow her to tailor her methods to meet each child’s unique needs, fostering growth and development in every aspect of their lives. Amy’s passion shines through in her commitment to helping children and their families in Haslet, TX, and the Fort Worth area.
At Amy Fowler Therapy, we believe that every child deserves the chance to lead a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life. Our comprehensive child therapy services are designed to support your child’s mental health, emotional well-being, and overall development, ensuring they have the best possible start in life.
The Necessity of Specialized Counseling for Children with Special Needs
Every child is unique, and this is especially true for children with special needs. Whether your child has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Down syndrome, or another condition, their experiences, challenges, and strengths are distinct. A one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t work. That’s why we focus on tailored therapeutic approaches that address the specific needs of each child.
Special needs counseling isn’t just about managing symptoms; it’s about understanding the whole child—their thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and social skills. we take the time to get to know your child as an individual, recognizing that their neurodiversity, mental health, and emotional development are deeply intertwined with their cognitive development and overall well-being. This personalized care is what sets our services apart and makes a real difference in the lives of our clients.
Why Early Intervention is Crucial
Early childhood is a critical time for development. For children with special needs, early intervention can significantly improve long-term outcomes. Research shows that the earlier a child receives appropriate therapy, the better their chances of developing essential skills like communication, social interaction, and self-esteem. These early gains can have a lasting impact on a child’s education, mental health, and ability to form meaningful relationships throughout their life.
We emphasize the importance of identifying and addressing special needs as early as possible. We work closely with parents, schools, and other caregivers to create an environment where your child can grow and develop with the support they need. Whether it’s through behavior therapy or psychological support, our goal is to help your child reach their full potential.
The Long-Term Impact of Specialized Counseling
Specialized counseling is not just about addressing immediate concerns—it’s an investment in your child’s future. Through consistent, compassionate care, we help children build the skills they need to navigate a world that isn’t always accommodating to their differences. By fostering psychological resilience, enhancing social skills, and supporting emotional development, we prepare them for the challenges they may face in adolescence and beyond.
For families in Haslet, Texas, and the surrounding areas, including Fort Worth and Keller, we are here to provide the comprehensive care your child deserves. Whether your child is dealing with anxiety, major depressive disorder, or other mental health challenges, our approach is grounded in empathy, expertise, and a deep commitment to helping your child succeed.
Understanding the Types of Special Needs Addressed in Counseling
Understanding the specific challenges your child faces is the first step in finding the right support. We are dedicated to providing specialized services tailored to the unique needs of children with a wide range of disabilities. Let’s explore four of the most common types of special needs we address and the therapeutic approaches we use to support your child’s development and well-being.
Support for Children with Intellectual Disabilities
Common conditions include Down Syndrome and Fragile X Syndrome. These conditions often result in significant challenges related to cognition, communication, and adaptive behavior, affecting your child’s ability to perform everyday tasks.
We use a variety of therapeutic approaches to support children with intellectual disabilities. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is often employed to help children develop coping strategies and improve their problem-solving skills. Additionally, we incorporate play therapy and behavior therapy to enhance social skills, boost self-esteem, and promote psychological resilience.
Approaches for Children with Learning Disabilities
ADHD can significantly impact a child’s ability to focus, learn, and succeed in school. Children with learning disabilities often struggle with more than just academics. The frustration of not being able to keep up with peers can lead to behavioral issues, such as aggression or withdrawal. These challenges can also affect a child’s mental health, leading to anxiety or major depressive disorder.
To help children with learning disabilities, we use evidence-based interventions tailored to their specific needs. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective in helping children manage symptoms of ADHD and improve focus and attention. By working closely with schools and families, we ensure that each child receives the comprehensive support they need to thrive.
Managing Dual Diagnoses in Children
A dual diagnosis occurs when a child has two or more co-occurring conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder combined with anxiety, or ADHD combined with depression. These cases are particularly complex because each condition can exacerbate the symptoms of the other, making treatment more challenging.
Managing dual diagnoses requires an integrated care plan that addresses both conditions simultaneously. We create coordinated treatment plans that may include cognitive-behavioral therapy and/or behavior therapy. We work closely with parents and educators to ensure that your child receives comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of their mental health and development.
Schedule Your First Session
Parent Intake Session
If your child is under the age of 18, an initial 90-minute parent intake is required. The cost for this intake is $125.
Each subsequent 50-minute session for your child or teen is $115. Amy will discuss the suggested frequency of appointments with you during the intake session as she learns more about your child or teen.
Amy Fowler Therapy is private pay. Although we do not accept insurance, we do accept payment with your HSA or FSA card.
Tailored Counseling Approaches for Special Needs
Every child is unique, and this is especially true for children with special needs. Whether your child has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Down syndrome, or another condition, their experiences, challenges, and strengths are distinct. A one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t work. That’s why I focus on tailored therapeutic approaches that address the specific needs of each child we see.
Special needs counseling isn’t just about managing symptoms; it’s about understanding the whole child—their thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and social skills. We take the time to get to know your child as an individual, recognizing that their neurodiversity, mental health, and emotional development are deeply intertwined with their cognitive development and overall well-being. This personalized care is what sets our services apart and makes a real difference in the lives of our clients.
Adapting Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Special Needs
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely used form of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. It is particularly effective for children with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The core principle of CBT is that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected, and by changing one, we can influence the others.
At Amy Fowler Therapy, CBT is carefully adapted to meet the developmental and cognitive needs of children with various types of special needs. For example, when working with a child with autism spectrum disorder, CBT might be modified to include visual aids or social stories that help the child understand abstract concepts.
Using Play Therapy for Emotional Expression
Play Therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses play as a medium for children to express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It is particularly effective for younger children or those who have difficulty articulating their emotions through words. In Play Therapy, the therapist provides a safe and supportive environment where the child can explore and make sense of their world through play.
Play Therapy is especially beneficial for children with communication challenges, such as those with developmental disabilities or autism spectrum disorder. Play therapy can include art therapy and sand therapy. Through play therapy, children can express emotions and experiences that they might not be able to verbalize, allowing the therapist to gain insights into their internal world.
At Amy Fowler Therapy, CBT is carefully adapted to meet the developmental and cognitive needs of children with various types of special needs. For example, when working with a child with autism spectrum disorder, CBT might be modified to include visual aids or social stories that help the child understand abstract concepts.
Implementing Family Systems Therapy
Family Systems Therapy is based on the idea that a family functions as an emotional unit, and that the behavior of one family member can influence the entire family dynamic. This approach recognizes that when a child has special needs, it affects not only the child but the entire family. Therefore, therapy often involves working with the family as a whole to address patterns of interaction that may be contributing to the child’s difficulties.
In Family Systems Therapy, we work to understand the family’s dynamics and how they impact the child’s behavior and emotional well-being. This approach involves identifying and addressing dysfunctional patterns within the family, such as communication breakdowns or unbalanced roles. By involving the family in the therapeutic process, we help parents and siblings develop healthier ways of interacting and supporting the child with special needs.
Providing Trauma-Informed Care
Trauma-Informed Care is a therapeutic approach that recognizes and responds to the impact of psychological trauma on a child’s development and behavior. This approach is particularly important for children who have experienced events such as abuse, neglect, or significant loss, which can profoundly affect their mental health and well-being.
Children with special needs are often more vulnerable to trauma, and the effects of trauma can exacerbate their existing challenges. Trauma-Informed Care ensures that therapy is provided in a way that is sensitive to these past experiences and designed to prevent re-traumatization.
Family Support and Parent Coaching for Lasting Change
Family involvement is key to the success of therapy for children with special needs. At Amy Fowler Therapy, we emphasize that the most effective therapy extends beyond our sessions and into the home. When parents actively participate, they help reinforce the skills their child is learning, making progress more consistent and meaningful.
Our parent coaching services are designed to equip you with the tools and strategies you need to better support your child. We help you understand your child’s behaviors, improve communication, and create effective routines that reduce stress. Parenting a child with special needs can be challenging, and it’s normal to seek guidance. We empower you with personalized strategies, helping you become more confident in managing your child’s unique needs.
We also provide guidance on how to advocate for your child’s needs in various settings, including school and social environments. Our goal is to empower you as a parent, giving you the confidence and skills to support your child’s development and emotional well-being.
Collaborating with Schools for Comprehensive Support
Schools and their special education departments play a crucial role in the support and development of children with special needs. As a former elementary school counselor, Amy understands the importance of working closely with teachers to ensure that your child receives the resources they need to succeed. From Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to 504 Plans, effective collaboration between therapists and schools can make a significant difference in a child’s academic and social progress.
We can help facilitate communication between you and your child’s school or preschool, ensuring that your child’s emotional and behavioral needs are understood and addressed in the educational setting. This collaborative approach helps create a consistent, supportive environment for your child both at home and at school.
Take the First Step Towards Better Support with Counseling for Your Child With Special Needs in Haslet, TX
At Amy Fowler Therapy in Haslet, Texas, we are committed to providing compassionate, expert care tailored to the unique needs of your child. Our specialized counseling services are designed to support not just the child, but the entire family, helping you build a brighter, more hopeful future together.
Whether your child is dealing with a developmental disability, learning disorder, or emotional challenges, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. We believe in the power of early intervention, personalized therapy, and strong collaboration with schools and communities to ensure that every child can thrive.
Ready to take the next step? Contact Amy Fowler Therapy today to schedule a consultation and discover how our specialized services can make a difference in your child’s life. Together, we can help your child reach their full potential.