Child & Adolescent Counseling
Child & Adolescent Counseling: Steady Support Through Anxiety, Depression, and Change
Help for kids and teens dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, school stress, and family changes, with parents kept in the loop. In my Longwood office, or by secure video when appropriate.
When Childhood Feels Heavier Than It Should
Anxiety, depression, and big life transitions don't just affect adults. Children and teens carry them too, often without the words to explain what's wrong, and it can show up as withdrawal, irritability, trouble sleeping, or a sudden drop in school performance.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Longwood, FL, serving families throughout Winter Springs, Lake Mary, and Oviedo as well, I work with young people at whatever age and stage they're at, meeting them where they are and giving them a steady, judgment-free space to work through what's weighing on them.
Families going through divorce, a move, a loss, or any other major change often find that counseling can give everyone a space to find their footing together.
Parents often call after noticing a change: a child who dreads school, a teen who has pulled away from friends, or anger that seems out of proportion. A free 20-minute call is a good first step. We talk about what you're seeing and what kind of support might fit.
Nearly Three Decades of Experience · All Ages · In Person & Online · Appointments Available Within 24 Hours
What does counseling for children and teens cost?
Cynthia Benedict, MA, LMHC, LPC, CLC (Florida license MH 6009), provides counseling for children and teens at her Longwood office and by secure video when appropriate. Individual sessions are 60 minutes and $125. Family sessions are 90 to 100 minutes and $175. Select insurance plans are accepted through Headway. A free 20-minute consultation is available.
A Trusted Adult Who Truly Listens
Children and teens often need an adult outside the family who will listen without judging, lecturing, talking down to them, or immediately trying to correct them. Building trusting relationships with young people has always been one of my strengths. I take their concerns seriously and help them find words for experiences they may not yet know how to explain.
I sometimes tell younger clients they can think of me as a “cool grandma”—someone who will listen, tell them the truth, and remain steady even when life feels complicated. My younger clients—and my own granddaughters—also help me stay connected to the pressures, language, technology, relationships, and rapidly changing world children and teens are navigating today.
"Kids don't need"Cynthia Benedict Licensed Counselor and Certified Life Coach, Longwood
a lecture. They need someone who takes their feelings seriously and helps them find the words for what's going on underneath.
Common Questions About Child & Adolescent Counseling
What issues do you help children and teens work through?
I work with children and teens facing anxiety, depression, grief, family transitions such as divorce or a move, school stress, and difficulty communicating what they're feeling. Sessions are adapted to fit each child's age and needs.
Will I know what my child talks about in sessions?
Parent involvement and confidentiality are handled based on your child's age, needs, clinical circumstances, and safety. I'll talk with you directly about how that works for your family before we begin.
How long does counseling typically take?
It depends on what your child is working through. Some families choose short-term support around a specific transition, and others prefer ongoing sessions. We'll talk about what makes sense as we go.
How do I get started?
Call 407-949-1954 or use the contact page. A free 20-minute consultation is available for parents to ask questions before booking. Sessions are at 1855 West SR 434, Suite 216, Longwood, or by secure video when appropriate.
Have a different question? Visit our full FAQ page.
A Parent's Perspective
“From the very beginning, she provided a safe, compassionate, and supportive space where my son could process his grief, fears, and emotions. She helped him rebuild his confidence and gave him healthy ways to navigate complicated feelings. She didn’t just help him through his trauma—she helped him rediscover his strength. The progress he made under her care has had a lasting impact on his life.”
From a parent’s Google review, shared with written permission.
Ready to Begin?
Give Your Child a Steady Place to Work Through It
Reaching out takes courage, for parents as much as for kids. I'm here to listen, support your family, and help your child move through anxiety, depression, or a hard transition.