Child Therapy and Counseling in Columbus, Ohio
Big Feelings Can Be Hard for Little People
Your child may not have the words to explain what’s wrong.
That’s okay. Therapy gives children and adolescents a safe, age-appropriate place to understand their emotions, express what they’re experiencing and develop healthier ways to cope. At Blue Lemon Counseling, our adolescent and child therapists in Columbus, Ohio, support children while helping parents feel less alone in figuring out what comes next.
Getting Started With a Therapist Is Simple
1
Reach Out
Complete our online contact form or contact us directly. Tell us a little about your child, what you have noticed and what kind of support you are looking for.
2
Schedule a Free Consultation
We offer a complimentary 15-minute consultation to help determine whether we’re the right fit for your child and family. You can ask questions and learn what to expect.
3
Book the First Appointment
If the therapist feels like a good match, we’ll schedule the first appointment and begin learning more about your child’s needs, strengths and goals.
Meet Andrea Thompson, LISW
Andrea helps children explore big feelings through play, giving them a safe and natural way to express what may be difficult to put into words. With a warm, understanding approach and experience in medical social work, she helps children feel heard while supporting families through life’s challenges.
How Do I Know if My Child Needs Therapy?
Children experience hard days, big feelings and changing behavior as they grow. Not every difficult moment means your child needs counseling. However, it may be time to speak with a child therapist when a concern continues, becomes more intense or begins affecting your child’s relationships, education, confidence or everyday life.
Parents may seek child counseling after noticing:
Frequent worry, fear or separation anxiety
Irritability, anger or emotional outbursts
Difficulty calming down after becoming upset
Withdrawal from family, friends or activities
Trouble concentrating or completing tasks
Friendship problems, bullying or social anxiety
Low self-esteem or negative self-talk
Difficulty adjusting to divorce, a move or another family change
Grief after the death of a loved one or pet
A frightening, stressful or overwhelming experience
Attention, impulse-control or executive-functioning challenges
You do not need to know exactly what is wrong before reaching out. Sometimes, the first step is simply having a conversation about what you have noticed and whether child counseling may be helpful.
A Comfortable Place for Kids to Be Themselves
1200 W 5th Ave, Suite 105 in the heart of Columbus, OH.
Our therapists are genuine, caring professionals who understand that trust comes before progress. We create a welcoming, inclusive space where children and families can show up as themselves without shame or judgment.
Our cozy and welcoming space is designed to make you feel at ease from the moment you walk in. Conveniently located in the neighborhood of Grandview, we’re easily accessible and ready to offer you the support you need in a comfortable, private setting.
Virtual Mental Health Support in Columbus, OH
Based in Grandview, Ohio, Blue Lemon Counseling offers both in-person and telehealth services throughout the state. No matter where you are, professional help is available.
What About Fees & Insurance?
We don’t bill insurance directly, allowing us to focus solely on your needs without insurance limitations. This gives you greater control over your therapy.
Adolescent & Child Counseling in Columbus: Frequently Asked Questions
What age can a child start therapy?
Counseling can be helpful at many ages, but the right approach depends on the child’s developmental stage and needs. During your consultation, we’ll ask about your child’s age and concerns and help determine whether one of our therapists is an appropriate fit. If your child is a teenager, visit our Teen Counseling page for adolescent-specific support.
Does a parent attend child therapy?
Parent participation depends on the child’s age, concerns and treatment plan. A therapist may meet with parents during the initial appointment, invite a parent into part of a session or schedule periodic parent check-ins. Your therapist will explain what involvement will be most helpful for your child.
What should I tell my child about therapy?
Use simple, calm and supportive language. You might say, “We’re going to meet someone who helps kids understand their feelings and handle hard things.” Avoid presenting therapy as a punishment or as something your child must do because they have been “bad.”
What happens during a child’s first counseling appointment?
The first appointment is an opportunity for the therapist to begin understanding your concerns, your child’s experiences and your family’s goals. The exact structure will depend on your child’s age and the therapist’s approach. You will have an opportunity to ask questions and learn what future sessions may look like.
How long does child therapy take?
There is no universal timeline. The length of counseling depends on your child’s concerns, goals, progress and the frequency of appointments. Your child’s therapist will discuss recommendations with you and revisit the plan as therapy progresses.
Do you accept insurance?
Blue Lemon Counseling is a self-pay practice and does not bill insurance companies directly. Payment is due at the time of the appointment, and we accept credit cards, FSA and HSA funds. We may also provide a superbill that you can submit to your insurance company for possible out-of-network reimbursement. Benefits vary, so check with your insurance provider for details.
Do you offer virtual child therapy?
Blue Lemon Counseling offers secure telehealth services to clients throughout Ohio. Whether virtual counseling is appropriate will depend on your child’s age, attention, comfort level and clinical needs. We can discuss in-person and virtual options during your consultation.