Now open: early childhood mental health clinic
The Guidance Center of Westchester (TGCW) announces the opening of its early childhood mental health clinic. The clinic, which is located at 17 Anderson Street in New Rochelle, specializes in the social, emotional, and behavioral health needs of children 2-5 years old and their families.
“Too often, parents are at a loss when it comes to identifying their child’s social-emotional development and assessing behaviors. Parents aren’t sure what is typical versus what may need a little guiding and coaching. And then they don’t know where to go for help,” says Amy Gelles, CEO of TGCW. “TGCW is particularly well positioned as an important resource. Our early childhood clinic is solely focused on helping very young children and their families. Early intervention in addressing any challenges is the key to positive, long-term outcomes.”
There are many ways that social, emotional, or behavioral issues may present in very young children: changes in mood, behaviors, sleep patterns or eating habits; increased tantrums; regression in toilet training or other developmental milestones; becoming easily frustrated, irritable, or teary; acting out, hitting, or biting; becoming withdrawn.
“Early intervention leads to better outcomes,” says Ron Colavito, President of TGCW. “Families have known and trusted TGCW for decades for the support they’ve needed to raise healthy children. Now, they will know where to turn when they have concerns about their child’s mental health. This is a needed and welcomed resource for the community.”
The new early childhood mental health clinic offers:
Play Therapy is a specialized way for a therapist to gain insights into a child’s behaviors. The therapist helps the child explore emotions and deal with unresolved trauma. Children can learn new coping skills and how to redirect inappropriate behaviors.
Family & Sibling Support helps families improve communication and resolve conflicts in a healthy way.
Postpartum Support helps new moms who experience feelings of anger, sadness, irritability, guilt, lack of interest in the baby, or other trouble thoughts.
Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP) is an intervention model for children aged 0-5 who have experienced traumatic events or are experiencing mental health, attachment, or behavioral challenges. Therapeutic sessions include the child and parent or primary caregiver. A central goal is to support and strengthen the caregiver-child relationship as a vehicle for restoring and protecting the child’s mental health.
Sessions are by appointment only and available Tuesdays and Thursdays (3:00-7:00 PM) and Saturdays (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM). Services are available in English and Spanish. To schedule an appointment, call 914-613-0700 x7301 or email EarlyChildhood@TheGuidanceCenter.org.