When you’re parenting solo, every decision feels heavier. You’re managing work and home schedules and the constant hope that your child is doing okay. When worry creeps in about your child’s mood or behavior, it can be hard to know what’s normal and what needs attention. Therapist Samara West, MA, PLMHP with Child Saving Institute offered practical guidance for single parents who suspect their child could use support and for parents who need support themselves.
Every child shows stress differently but Samara suggests watching for swings on either end of the spectrum. Some kids become easily irritated and have big reactions over small things. Others pull back from friends, teams or family time and spend more time alone. Loss of interest in favorite activities or going quiet when they used to chat can be meaningful shifts. The key is consistency. If a change shows up often, take note.
‘When Do I Start?’
Don’t wait for a crisis. Therapy takes time and relationships take time to develop so sooner is better. Begin by naming what you’ve noticed in calm language: “I’ve seen you pulling away from friends and skipping practice. I’m here if you want to talk.” If your child resists opening up, consider introducing the idea of talking with a neutral adult. You’re not handing them off, you’re bringing in a teammate. If you’re unsure where to start, reach out to your pediatrician or Child Saving Institute to talk through what you’re seeing and ask about next steps.
‘How Do I Approach This with My Child?’
Expect pushback. That’s common. Keep the door open and emphasize what therapy is and isn’t. It’s a private space to talk with someone who isn’t a parent, with confidentiality limits for safety. Invite a trial mindset: “Try three sessions. If it doesn’t feel right, we’ll talk about a different fit.” The goal is pressure-free permission to get help.
‘What Should I Expect from Therapy?’
Therapy isn’t a quick fix. In the first few weeks, much of the work is getting to know the therapist and helping your child feel safe enough to share what’s real. Progress won’t be linear and behavior can flare as new boundaries or coping tools take hold. Stay the course. Focus on small wins: naming a feeling in the moment, using a coping skill before an outburst or choosing to rejoin family time. These “light bulb” moments add up.
Be supportive and curious, not intrusive. After sessions, don’t push them to share. Try: “I’m proud of you for going. If you want to share anything, I’m here.” Follow through on the therapist’s suggestions with steady consistency even when pushback spikes. If updates are needed, many therapists welcome a quick email before the session so your child isn’t caught off-guard in the lobby recap. Safety issues will always be shared with you and many therapists will ask your child’s permission to share good news too.
As a parent, you’re carrying a lot. Stress can blur perspective and drain patience. Samara encourages simple, doable resets: a few slow breaths before reacting, a quick self-check (“Is this in my control?”) and choosing optimism in small doses. It’s not about ignoring hard things. It’s about keeping enough ‘fuel in the tank’ to respond instead of react. And if you need more support, Child Saving Institute offers therapy for adults as well. Seeking your own help isn’t selfish, it models strength for your child and improves the tone at home.
Beyond individual therapy, Child Saving Institute offers programs that meet families where they are. The SAFE (School and Family Enrichment) program brings support into the school environment so concerns can be understood in context and addressed sooner. The Family Empowerment Program supports survivors of domestic violence and includes groups for children. When helpful, staff can suggest referrals for psychological evaluations through trusted partners to clarify diagnoses and tailor care. You can review therapist bios and video introductions to find a good fit and then call to schedule an intake. It’s a judgment-free first step.
Progress often shows up in small ways: a child chooses a coping skill over a blowup or decides one evening to rejoin family dinner. Families are resilient. With patience, consistency and the right support, perspectives start to shift. The work you’re doing today builds confidence and skills your child will carry forward.
Wondering how to communicate all of this with your child and what to do? Here’s a simple plan you can try to implement:
- Notice consistent changes in mood, behavior or social life
- Name what you see using calm, specific language
- Offer therapy as a neutral, private space and suggest a short trial
- Set steady, clear expectations at home and follow through
- Email quick updates to the therapist when needed
- Practice small self-care activities daily and consider support for yourself
- Visit the Child Saving Institute site to find a therapist and call to schedule an intake
You’re not alone. Child Saving Institute provides mental health services tailored to children and families in Omaha, from assessments to ongoing therapy. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit childsaving.org/youmatter.
