CHILD THERAPY
Specialized Child Therapy & Pediatric Psychology in Brighton and Plymouth, MI
As a parent, nothing hurts more than watching your child struggle. Whether they are navigating a developmental disability, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, or acting out, you want nothing more than to protect them and bring back their joy.
If you’ve tried parenting books, pediatrician advice, or even previous therapy that didn’t feel like the right fit, McCaskill Family Services is here to help. Our pediatric psychologists provide evidence-based, highly personalized therapy methods designed to treat:
- Anxiety & Worry: Generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, phobias, and obsessive-compulsive tendencies.
- Depression & Mood Shifts: Persistent sadness, withdrawal, irritability, and low self-esteem.
- Behavioral Challenges: Oppositional behavior, temper tantrums, defiance, and difficulty following directions.
- School Stress & Academic Anxiety: Test anxiety, school refusal, and social challenges with peers.
- Life Transitions & Trauma: Navigating divorce, grief, family changes, or traumatic events.
Why Parents Choose McCaskill Family Services
At McCaskill Family Services, we do things differently. With convenient offices in Brighton, MI and Plymouth, MI, we have served local families for years with top-tier, evidence-based psychological care. Here is why families trust our pediatric psychologists to help their children thrive:
- True Specialists in Child Development: Children aren’t just mini adults. Our team consists of pediatric psychologists with advanced education beyond standard psychological training, making us experts in how children think, feel, and grow.
- Therapy That Includes the Whole Family: You are the most important person in your child’s life. We give you clear guidance, parenting strategies, and ongoing communication so you feel empowered to help your child outside the therapy office.
- Proven, Action-Oriented Methods: We use evidence-based treatment, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and PCIT—a gold-standard treatment that teaches kids actionable coping mechanisms for anxiety, ADHD, mood challenges, and behavioral issues.
Get expert child therapy from the comfort of your home.
You shouldn’t have to compromise on specialized mental health care just because you have a packed schedule. Teletherapy brings our top-tier pediatric psychologists straight to your living room, giving your child powerful tools to thrive without adding another commute to your day.
Frequently Asked Questions About Child Therapy
How do I know if my child needs therapy or if it’s “just a phase”?
It’s completely normal for children to go through challenging emotional or behavioral stages as they grow. However, if your child’s struggles—such as extreme anxiety, intense tantrums, persistent sadness, sudden drop in grades, or social withdrawal—last for more than a few weeks or interfere with their daily life at home or school, professional support can help. Seeking early evaluation from a pediatric psychologist gives your child practical coping strategies before minor struggles turn into long-term challenges.
How do I explain therapy to my child without making them feel “broken”?
Frame therapy as a positive, supportive experience. You can tell your child that a therapist is a “feelings doctor” or a “special teacher” who helps kids learn fun ways to manage big emotions, navigate school stress, or handle worries. At McCaskill Family Services, our Brighton, MI and Plymouth, MI offices are warm, colorful, and stocked with games and toys. We create an inviting environment where children feel like they are visiting a safe, comfortable space rather than a medical clinic.
Will I be involved in my child’s therapy sessions?
Yes, absolutely. Unlike traditional therapy where parents are kept in the dark, we view you as an essential part of your child’s care team. While individual session structure depends on your child’s age and needs, our parent coaching sessions actively equip parents with actionable techniques, parenting strategies, and progress updates so you can reinforce positive behaviors and emotional regulation at home.
Does virtual child therapy (teletherapy) work as well as in-person sessions?
Yes! Virtual child therapy is highly effective, especially for treating child anxiety, ADHD, and behavioral challenges. Our online sessions utilize dynamic, interactive digital tools that keep kids engaged directly from their screens. Teletherapy allows your child to receive expert pediatric care from the comfort and safety of home, making it easier for busy families in Michigan to maintain consistent, high-quality care without the stress of extra commutes.
Will you coordinate with my child’s school or teachers?
With your permission, yes. If your child is struggling with academic anxiety, behavioral issues, or focus in the classroom, we frequently partner with teachers, school counselors, and administrators. We help develop positive behavioral support plans and classroom strategies to ensure your child experiences consistent support across both home and school environments.
What if my child refuses to talk or open up?
It is very common for children to feel hesitant or shy at first. Our pediatric specialists are extensively trained in child development and engagement techniques beyond standard adult therapy. We meet kids at their level using interactive tools, play, and age-appropriate activities to build trust naturally. Most children quickly look forward to their sessions, and it’s very common for siblings to ask if they can come along too!
What happens during a typical child therapy session?
Child therapy is much more than just sitting on a couch and talking. Depending on your child’s age, a session may include interactive problem-solving, cognitive-behavioral exercises, drawing, games, or role-playing to teach emotional regulation, social skills, and coping mechanisms. Every session has a clear purpose aimed at reaching specific goals tailored to your child’s diagnosis and developmental stage.
What is a therapy environment like for children?
We have a very child-friendly office stocked with toys and a colorful, comfortable environment for your child to feel welcomed and safe at any age. It does not feel like a “doctor’s office”, but rather like an extension of school or home, so that children feel especially comfortable coming in to see us. In fact, most children eagerly anticipate their appointments, and siblings often ask if they can come too.
Office Locations & Directions
PLYMOUTH OFFICE
Parkview Professional Building
409 Plymouth Road, Suite 250
Plymouth, MI 48170
Phone: (734) 416-9098
Serving Plymouth, Canton, Livonia, Northville, and Western Wayne County
BRIGHTON OFFICE
Grand River Annex
2040 Grand River Annex, Suite 300
Brighton, MI 48114
Phone: (810) 224-1676
Serving Brighton, Howell, Hartland, South Lyon, and Livingston County
