Children with cerebral palsy and brain injury are affected in different ways, and no two children are exactly alike. However, most children with cerebral palsy or brain injury have an awareness of their “differences.” They may be frustrated that they can’t physically keep up with their peers, or upset because they can’t communicate as well as they like. No matter how mild you child’s cerebral palsy or brain injury is, they face challenges every day that non-disabled children don’t face.

Yet your child is equipped with the same emotional capabilities as any other child. The challenges they face on a regular basis may make them feel sad, angry, frustrated, or worthless. Unless they learn to cope with these emotions, emotional and behavioral problems may crop up.

Many children with cerebral palsy and brain injury benefit from counseling or psychotherapy. Not only can counseling and psychotherapy help a child feel good about themselves, it can also give them the tools they needs to best cope with their feelings.

Because no two children are alike, counseling is highly individual. Counselors and psychiatrists who are trained to work specifically with kids who have brain injury can teach them ways to cope with their feelings. The counselor or therapist will use a variety of different techniques based on your child’s situation, needs, and issues. In almost all cases, parents are involved in counseling so that they can support techniques at home.

In most cases, insurance and government benefits should cover counseling and psychotherapy. If you are being told that benefits have run out, or that benefits are being denied, don’t let your child go without the counseling he needs. With the right knowledge and advocacy, you can ensure that your child gets the necessary therapies and benefits. See our legal/financial section for more information, or contact us to find out how we can help.