Child & Adolescent Counseling
Child & Adolescent Counseling: Steady Support Through Anxiety, Depression, and Change
Compassionate counseling for children and teens in Longwood, FL, serving Lake Mary, Altamonte Springs, Winter Springs, Casselberry, Sanford, Heathrow, and Seminole County, plus virtually across Florida.
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 a few sessions of counseling help everyone find their footing again, together.
Nearly Three Decades of Experience · All Ages · In Person & Online · Appointments Available Within 24 Hours
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 see meaningful change in a handful of sessions around a specific transition; others benefit from ongoing support over a longer stretch. We'll talk about what makes sense as we go.
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.