There are many types of psychotherapy that may be most appropriate for a particular problem and a particular child and family. Therapists will often spend a portion of each session with the parents alone, with the child alone, and with the family together.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is often helpful with children over age 12 who are depressed, anxious, or having problems coping with stress. Cognitive behavioral therapy attempts to identify and alter maladaptive ways of thinking, restructuring negative thoughts into more positive ways of thinking.