Focused on the Care of Children The Caring Tree - Children’s Counseling Center in Wausau, Wisconsin provides therapy to children of all ages, and their families. Our focus is on improving the overall wellness for children who are experiencing post-trauma, mood disorders such as depression & anxiety, ADHD, and children who are on the autism spectrum. Therapy facilitates communication and healing while supporting the entire family. Animal Assisted Therapy Animals help improve motivation and engagement in therapy, perhaps resulting in a shorter recovery process and lower costs. Animals provide a sense of security, emotional support, and also promote relaxation. Horses and hypoallergenic dogs offer unconditional acceptance and positive regard. Research has demonstrated that petting an animal can help lower blood pressure, heart rate, and can also increase oxytocin, which is a positive chemical in the brain! Art Assisted Therapy Art therapy for children can provide youth with an easier way to express themselves since children are more naturally artistic and creative. A young child is likely to be more comfortable initially expressing themselves with crayons and markers, for example, than they are going to be at expressing emotions and feelings through words.