Therapy for Family Transitions, Loss, or Change
Families change over time. Some changes are expected, others arrive suddenly, and many carry a mix of relief, confusion, and loss. For children and adolescents, family transitions can feel especially unsettling, even when adults believe things are “for the best.”
Family change does not always look like crisis. Often, it shows up quietly in a young person’s emotions or behavior.
When Change Becomes Hard to Hold
You may notice:
Increased worry, sadness, or irritability
Withdrawal or changes in mood
Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
Regression to earlier behaviors
Strong emotional reactions that feel hard to explain
Questions about safety, belonging, or stability
Common Family Transitions
Transitions that may affect children and adolescents include:
Divorce or separation
Changes in family structure or caregiving
Moving to a new home or community
Loss of a family member, friend, or pet
Changes related to health, work, or financial stress
Shifts in roles, routines, or expectations within the family
Therapy During Times of Change
At Little River Psychological Services, therapy for family transitions focuses on helping young people make sense of change in a way that feels steady and supported. The work is not about forcing adjustment or minimizing loss. It is about giving space to feelings that may not yet have words and helping children and adolescents regain a sense of safety and continuity.
Therapy may help:
Support emotional expression during times of change
Reduce anxiety and emotional overwhelm
Strengthen coping and resilience
Help young people feel more secure during transitions
Support caregivers in responding with clarity and care
Caregiver Involvement
Caregiver involvement is approached thoughtfully. Some sessions may include parents or guardians to support communication and understanding, while others remain individual to allow the young person space to process their experience.
Moving Forward
If family transitions, loss, or change are affecting your child or adolescent’s well-being, support is available. Therapy can help young people feel steadier and less alone as they move through times of uncertainty.
We invite you to reach out to schedule a consultation and learn more about therapy for family transitions, loss, or change at Little River Psychological Services.