top of page
Stories of Growth: Our Therapy and Healing Blog


What Are the Best Ways Parents Can Support a Child After Trauma?
When a child experiences trauma—whether from an accident, loss, abuse, or witnessing distressing events—it can change the way they view the world. Parents often feel heartbroken watching their child struggle, unsure of how to help. The good news is that with understanding, patience, and professional guidance, healing is possible. At Alder Grove Counseling , we believe that recovery after trauma starts with compassionate support both at home and in therapy. Here’s how parents
Stacey Patterson, LCPC
Dec 23, 20253 min read


Is It Childhood Anxiety or Just Normal Worry?
As a parent, it's natural to worry when your child seems fearful, clingy, or unusually quiet. But how do you know if it’s just a passing phase—or a sign of childhood anxiety ? What Is Childhood Anxiety? Childhood anxiety is more than just occasional nervousness. It’s a mental health condition where children experience persistent, excessive fear or worry that interferes with their daily life, relationships, and development. While some worry is part of growing up, anxiety beco
Stacey Patterson, LCPC
Jul 28, 20252 min read


Play Therapy: A Powerful Tool for Child & Family Counseling at Alder Grove Counseling
At Alder Grove Counseling, we understand that navigating the complexities of childhood and adolescence can be challenging for both children and parents. That’s why we offer play therapy as a key component of our child and family therapy services. Located in Naperville and Downers Grove, our expert team of counselors, psychologists, and social workers is dedicated to helping children and families develop healthy coping strategies and emotional resilience. In this blog, we will
Stacey Patterson, LCPC
Mar 19, 20254 min read


How Parents Can Support Neurodivergent Kids
Raising a neurodivergent child can present unique challenges, but with the right support and strategies, parents can create an environment that promotes growth, understanding, and positive development. Neurodivergent treatment encompasses a range of approaches tailored to each child's needs, ensuring they receive the care and attention they deserve. In this blog, we will explore effective ways parents can support their neurodivergent kids, helping them thrive in everyday life
Stacey Patterson, LCPC
Feb 14, 20252 min read


How to Know When It's Time for Teen Therapy: A Parent's Guide
As a parent, watching your teenager navigate the turbulent waters of adolescence can be both rewarding and challenging. It's a time of rapid change, emotional highs and lows, and, at times, confusion. One of the hardest things to face as a parent is when your teen begins acting out or showing signs of emotional distress. While it’s common for teens to push boundaries or experience mood swings, certain behaviors can signal a deeper issue that may require professional intervent
Stacey Patterson, LCPC
Jan 10, 20255 min read


Why Children Therapy is Essential for Mental and Emotional Well-being
Introduction: The Growing Need for Children Therapy As parents, guardians, and caregivers, one of the most important roles we have is to ensure that our children are emotionally and mentally healthy. Keeping up with this requires attention and care. This is where child therapy comes in. At Alder Grove Counseling , we specialize in helping children and families navigate the complexities of emotional challenges, providing the support and strategies needed to thrive. Whether yo
Stacey Patterson, LCPC
Dec 20, 20243 min read
bottom of page