Stage 4: Therapy for Elementary School
Erikson's fourth stage, Industry Versus Inferiority, occurs during the school years (approximately ages 5 to 10). It’s a time when children learn to master new academic and social skills, leading to feelings of competence and self-worth. However, they may also struggle with feelings of inferiority. Insecurity, comparing themselves to others, or feeling left out socially can be common stressors at this stage. They may start to believe they’re “not good enough.”
How Therapy Can Help
Therapy gives kids a safe place to try new things, make mistakes, and discover their strengths, all in a safe space. We help them build confidence, persistence, and better social skills — while also giving parents tools to support their growth at home and school.
Depending on your child’s unique needs, we may work on things like:
How to build friendships and create safe bonds
Learning to manage stress from schoolwork and new responsibilities
Navigating big changes within the family
Building up feelings of self worth and confidence
Our Approach
Kiddos at this age need to feel especially safe, so therapy is tailored to help support them using approaches that are:
Playful and practical: We use games and activities to teach problem-solving and resilience.
Step by step pacing: Setting small goals and celebrating progress.
Family support: Parents learn simple ways to encourage effort and confidence.
Collaboration when needed: We work with teachers, school counselors, social workers, or
other community helpers so kids feel supported in every setting.
Why it Matters
With support, children are more likely to feel capable and successful rather than discouraged or inadequate. By fostering positive self-esteem and healthy coping tools early on, therapy empowers kids to thrive socially, emotionally, and academically—laying a strong foundation for their future development.
STAGE 5