therapy for kids and teens

Child & Teen Therapy

We are experts in helping kids and teens find themselves, recognize their strengths and build helpful thinking patterns and behavioral habits through therapy.
Emily Lunn
Emily Lunn
2022-06-17
Start My Wellness definitely receives 5 stars. Their staff are incredibly helpful and want you to get the care you need. I did start by seeing Scott, but found him to not be the best fit for me. This can be a potentially uncomfortable situation for someone who already has anxiety on the best of days. Between talking with Laila who I see for medication and WISH I could have her as my actual therapist, and Mike Misiak at the main office, we are all in alignment on what my treatment plan is going forward. I am so impressed with Start My Wellness, which I found through the program my work started, I am going to be doing a full company presentation to talk about my experience and how SMW really does a great job of taking the stigma out of therapy! Thank you to everyone!
Sydney Maus
Sydney Maus
2022-06-13
I have enjoyed every interaction with Start My Wellness. They are helpful no matter your situation.
Walter Kacher
Walter Kacher
2022-06-12
The best therapy I could have ever imagined. They finally diagnosed me and gave me the help I always needed. I am forever grateful.
Christopher Smith
Christopher Smith
2022-06-11
I absolutely love the the people here. Was able to get started right away after getting all the paperwork done. Recommend this place to anyone and everyone
jamie cooley
jamie cooley
2022-06-02
I have not been here but I go to the previous employer of Abigail (Platt) Schellhammer… I’m very saddened she is gone. I have seen her last 6 years. She is so professional and personable. I prayed she stayed in family practice in my area. I may just drive to Ferndale🥰Wishing her happiness. Also letting SMW know how lucky they are to have her. I’ve went to her replacement this week and let’s just say she CANNOT be replaced. I left crying after realizing I lost the BEST practitioner I could ask for. UGH!!!! Best of luck to her though she deserve the world.
Dave Shaw
Dave Shaw
2022-05-02
Been a patient by of Abigail (platt)Schellhammer in Lansing.. Going to miss her very much..my first appointment without her and the new Dr I was scheduled with didn’t show up for my 8:20 appt, I left at 9:30.. made new appt for 11:30 with PA and it’s now 12:20 and still waiting😢I told the MA “I never waited for Abigail”. … which is true, the place went to h*** in a hand basket when she left…SMW sooooo lucky to have Ms. Schellhammer...her old patient -Jamie Cooley😢
#1

Improve Self-Esteem & Emotional Wellbeing

#2
Learn New Skills to Get Through Difficult Situations
Number Three

Reduce Anxiety, Depression & Other Symptoms

Number Four

Learn To Combat Stress & Manage Life Adjustments

#5
Develop Coping Strategies for ADHD Symptoms
#6
Improve Negative Thoughts & Behaviors

Like adults, children go through ups and downs with their mental health. Sometimes these problems reflect different developmental stages and can be considered normal, but when symptoms begin to interfere with your child’s daily functioning, it may be beneficial to consider treatment.

Beginning therapy can be scary for anyone, but it can be especially confusing for children and teens who might not understand why they are there. Our primary concern at Start My Wellness is making your child feel safe and comfortable. We will spend the first few sessions getting to know your child and building a therapeutic relationship not only by talking but also through art, play, and games.

Children might not yet have the words to describe what they are going through, which can be frustrating for both you and them. For children between the ages of 4 and 12, play therapy can be beneficial in helping the child work through complex emotions. Play therapy allows children to displace “unacceptable” or “bad” feelings onto toys and act out conflict resolutions.

Our therapists are prepared to help your children and teens develop an enhanced skill set to improve their self-esteem, reduce symptoms of mental illness, and learn strategies to build resilience and navigate complex challenges. Our child therapists can provide help with anxiety, depression, stress, body image, life adjustments, ADHD and much more,

At Start My Wellness, we have trained clinicians to help test for ADHD and identify signs and symptoms. We offer medication management and have psychiatric nurse practitioners who are prepared to answer any questions and concerns you may have regarding if medications are right for your child. We also have a registered dietician on staff who can work with your child to make healthy food and lifestyle decisions that best fit their needs.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. Our team of child therapists collaborate with you, your child, and other people on your child’s team to get a better understanding of your child’s history and their current concerns. We will create a treatment plan specific for your child that will help them learn tools to manage their symptoms and reach their goals. By intervening early, you can improve your child’s long term mental health outcomes by helping them be more aware of their own feelings and emotions, and encouraging them to seek help when in need.

We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Priority Health and private pay clients. Self-pay sessions are $150 per session, depending on the therapist. Please call our office with any questions at 248-514-4955.

Make an Appointment

To get started with Start My Wellness, schedule an appointment online or call 248-514-4955. During the scheduling process, we will ask questions to match you with the therapist who will best meet your needs including service type, emotional symptoms and availability.

Call (248) 514-4955

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Child & Teen Therapy FAQs

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How much does therapy cost?

Costs depend on many factors, including your insurance and financial situation. Mental health providers accept several major insurance plans and are in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield, Priority Health and Aetna. In addition, service fees are eligible for reimbursement by most Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), Medical Savings Accounts (MSAs), Health Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs). Questions? Visit our How Much Does Therapy Cost? page for complete details.

How do I select the right therapist for me?

Need help choosing a therapist? Read our unique How to Find a Therapist guide, search our list of experienced therapists or call (248) 707-5523 and our helpful staff can assist you with selecting the right therapist for your unique needs and schedule.

How do I get started with therapy?

We know that the process of seeking help is daunting. We are here to make it easy. Call (248) 707-5523 and we can help answer your questions and match you with a therapist that's right for you. If you've already selected a therapist via our therapist search tool, great! Simply schedule an appointment online to get started.

How can therapy help?

Almost anyone can benefit from therapy. It is a supportive process for personal growth and empowerment. Many scientific studies show that therapy is a helpful way to learn more about yourself, improve your range of coping skills, and develop new approaches to deal with life’s stressors more effectively.

Let us help you achieve the quality of life you want. Read our How to Find a Therapist guide, search our list of experienced therapists or call (248) 707-5523 to get started today!

How often do I need to come in?

Therapy is kind of like fitness – the more you put into it the more you benefit. Our clients tell us that at least one session per week is most helpful to them. Of course, coming more or less often is also an option. Questions? Contact Us >

Additional Therapy Services

Individual Therapy - Picture of a Happy Woman Standing Outside

Individual Therapy

Explore and create better outcomes with the help of one-on-one therapy.

Couples Therapy - Picture of a Happy Couple on Couch

Couples Therapy

Learn strategies to repair, improve, and enjoy long-term relationships.

Group Therapy - Picture of a Happy Group of People in Group Therapy

Group Therapy

Benefit from the support of other people with similar experiences.

Individual Therapy - Picture of a Happy Woman Standing Outside

Online Therapy

Talk to a licensed therapist via phone or online through Skype or Zoom.