Choosing the Right Therapist for Your Child: What Parents Should Know

A conversation between Christine Levy of Levy Educational Advocacy and Ari Fox, LCSW-R, Founder and Director of Cope With School NYC

As an educational advocate, I frequently meet parents who know their child needs support but are not sure where to begin. The process of finding a therapist who genuinely understands children’s emotional worlds, collaborates with families, and partners effectively with schools can feel confusing or even intimidating.

That is why I sat down with Ari Fox, LCSW-R, Founder and Director of Cope With School NYC, a Manhattan-based child, adolescent, and young adult therapy practice known for its warm, integrative, and school-savvy approach to children’s mental health. Ari and his team support kids, teens, and families through individual therapy, parent counseling, and specialized group programs that foster emotional resilience and social connection.

Our missions intersect deeply. Both Levy Educational Advocacy and Cope With School NYC believe that children thrive best when the adults in their lives collaborate, and clinicians, educators, and families work together toward a shared goal. In this conversation, we explore how parents can feel confident and informed as they seek the right emotional support for their child.

Christine Levy: Ari, parents often feel overwhelmed when their child is struggling emotionally or behaviorally. What are some of the first signs that a child or teen might benefit from therapy?

Ari Fox: One of the clearest indicators is when a child’s emotional reactions become harder for them or the family to manage. That might look like increased irritability, withdrawal from friends, changes in sleep or appetite, or sudden drops in motivation. Parents often have a strong gut sense that something feels “off.” When emotional patterns persist and begin to affect school, friendships, or the household, that is usually a sign it is time to seek support.

Christine: There are so many types of therapists and approaches out there. What should parents look for when choosing the right therapist for their child?

Ari: Start with training and experience specific to children and teens. Kids process their emotions differently than adults, and their therapist needs to understand developmental stages, school dynamics, and family systems. Parents should also look for someone who communicates clearly, values collaboration, and can articulate how they involve parents in the therapeutic process. Above all, the therapist should help your child feel safe, seen, and respected. That sense of connection is the foundation of meaningful progress.

Christine: As a parent, it can be hard to know whether a therapist is the right “fit.” What qualities or red flags should families pay attention to early in the process?

Ari: Fit is everything. A positive sign is when your child leaves sessions feeling understood or lighter — not necessarily “cured,” but connected. Transparent communication with parents is another key indicator. Therapists should welcome questions about goals, progress, and what therapy looks like week to week.

Red flags include a therapist who excludes parents entirely, who cannot clearly explain their approach, or who does not seem attuned to your child’s personality or learning profile. Therapy should feel like a partnership. If families do not sense that early on, it is okay to explore other options.

Christine: At Cope With School NYC, you and your team work closely with parents and schools. How does collaboration between therapists, parents, and educators help a child make progress?

Ari: Collaboration in treatment is essential. When clinicians, educators, and advocates work together, a child receives the same messages and support across all settings — home, school, and therapy. We regularly collaborate with parents, teachers, and professionals like you to ensure everyone understands the child’s needs and strengths. This shared approach helps children feel more grounded and reduces the overwhelm that can happen when adults are working in isolation. It also allows us to build strategies that truly fit a child’s daily environment.

Christine: Can you share more about the kinds of services you offer — particularly your social skills and bereavement groups — and how group work can help children and teens build connection and resilience?

Ari: At Cope With School NYC, we support the whole family system through individual therapy, family work, and parent counseling. These services give children and caregivers a grounding foundation and help us tailor support to each family’s needs.

Our social skills groups provide kids and teens with a space to practice communication, flexibility, and friendship-building in a supportive, real-time setting. Group work is powerful because children quickly learn they are not alone — others share similar experiences, challenges, and strengths.

We also offer teen bereavement groups, which give adolescents a place to process grief in age-appropriate ways. Loss can be profoundly isolating for teens, and sharing space with peers who understand creates a sense of relief, connection, and resilience. These groups complement our individual and family work by offering community, validation, and emotional growth.

Christine Levy: Finally, what advice would you give to parents who are beginning this process and want to feel confident that they are finding the right support for their child?

Ari Fox: Trust your instincts. You know your child deeply. Ask questions, meet with a few clinicians if needed, and look for someone who listens as much as they guide. Therapy is a meaningful investment in your child’s well-being, and the right therapeutic relationship can make a lasting difference. Parents do not need to navigate this alone. Professionals like therapists and advocates are here to help your child feel steady, supported, and capable. If you are wondering where to begin, you can start by exploring our services here: Cope With School NYC.