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Children, just like adults, sometimes encounter challenging situations that may require professional help. In such cases, it is essential to consider therapy as a viable option; this is where a child psychologist comes in. They possess specialized training to offer support for both parents and children. In this article, we will explore the role of child psychologists in-depth and how they can provide the necessary assistance to those who need it.
What does a child psychologist do?
A child psychologist is a licensed professional with experience with children’s psychological, emotional, and behavioural challenges. They help children from early childhood to adolescence deal with issues such as anxiety, depression, behavioural problems, and school-related difficulties. Child psychologists use therapeutic techniques to promote the child’s well-being and development by providing a safe place to express themselves.
Child psychologists offer therapy and counselling and can work with families to provide parental support and support to the whole family when needed. They also collaborate with schools to create good conditions for the child. At Lavendla, we have experienced child psychologists who can help.
What set our therapist apart was her genuine empathy and personal insight. Not only did she possess a deep understanding of neurodiversity, but she also shared personal experiences that resonated with us, creating an instant connection and fostering a sense of trust!
Benedetta Osarenk
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What are the signs that a child is unwell?
Detecting signs that a child is unwell is crucial to providing the right support and help. Children often show subtle changes in behaviour and emotional expression when dealing with psychological difficulties. Here is a summary of signs to look out for:
Behaviour
- Mood swings: Rapid changes in mood.
- Irritability or aggressiveness: Acting out.
- Social withdrawal: Loss of interest in friends and activities.
Emotional signs
- Anxiety or worry: Excessive worrying about various things.
- Sadness or depression: Prolonged sadness or loss of enjoyment of life.
- Low self-esteem: Feelings of worthlessness.
School and concentration
- Difficulty concentrating: Difficulty focusing on school work.
- Low marks: Sudden drop in school performance.
Physical signs
- Changes in eating and sleeping habits: Irregular or changing habits.
- Unexplained physical symptoms: Headaches or stomach aches with no apparent cause.
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Social signs
- Problems with peers: Difficulty maintaining friendships.
- Avoidance of social activities: Reluctance to participate in group activities.
Risk behaviors
- Risk-taking: Dangerous activities without regard to consequences.
- Substance abuse: Use of drugs or alcohol.
Thoughts and feelings
- Hopelessness: Negative statements about the future.
- Thoughts of death or suicide: Such statements should be taken very seriously.
If these signs are observed, start by talking to the child and acknowledging their feelings. If necessary, seek professional help from a child psychologist.
What can I do if my child is unwell?
Dealing with situations where your child is unwell can be challenging and emotionally demanding. It is essential to approach the situation with understanding, patience and support. Here are some steps you can take to help your child:
Listen and validate: Start by listening to your child without judgment. Validate their feelings to show that you take them seriously.
Seek professional help: If your child continues to feel bad, do not hesitate to contact a psychologist or therapist.
Open communication: Encourage your child to talk about their feelings and reassure them that you are always there to listen.
Joint activities: Spend time together doing activities that strengthen your bond and provide positive experiences.
Healthy lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise and enough sleep are essential for mental health.
Pay attention: Notice changes in behaviour or mood and act if you see signs that your child needs more support.
Create a safety network: Make sure your child knows who they can turn to besides you, such as other family members or teachers.
Remember: you are not alone. Support is available, and we make the hard things easier together. For emergencies, call 112.
This summary offers a practical guide to supporting your child through difficult times. It focuses on being responsive, active, and supportive.
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Treatment with a child psychologist
Seeking help from a child psychologist is a crucial step when a child is experiencing mental health difficulties. Depending on the age of the child, different services are available. Treatment with a child psychologist is adapted to the child’s needs and may include cognitive behavioural therapy, play therapy, family therapy and group therapy. The aim is to improve the child’s emotional well-being and develop coping strategies. The child psychologist works closely with the child and their family, and sometimes with the school, to create a safe environment where the child can learn to manage emotions and behaviours effectively.
It is important to remember that each child is unique so that treatment may vary. Working with a child psychologist can give your child the tools to manage their emotions and behaviours healthily.
12 FAQs about Child Psychologists
What is a child psychologist?
A child psychologist is a professional with knowledge and experience promoting children’s and parents’ well-being and mental health.
What does a child psychologist do?
Child psychologists offer therapy and counselling and work with families to provide parental support and support to the whole family when needed. Child psychologists can also work with schools to create good conditions for the child.
What are the signs that a child is not well?
There are several signs that a child is not doing well, which can manifest in behaviours and emotional expressions such as anxiety in social relationships or physical symptoms. It can affect school performance and lead to risky behaviours. Poor mental health can also affect the child’s thoughts and feelings in different ways.
My child is unwell. What should I do?
Dealing with situations where your child is unwell can be challenging and emotionally demanding. It is essential to approach the situation with understanding, patience and support. If necessary, you can seek professional help.
I am having difficulties with my parenting. How can I get help?
Child psychologists also work with parents to provide parental support. If you are struggling as a parent, you can seek professional help for more support.
Can children receive psychological treatment?
Children can receive psychological treatment, but it must be adapted to their age and the problems that need to be addressed. Standard methods are talk therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) with elements of play therapy.
What is CBT?
Cognitive Tehavioural Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based therapy that helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviours contributing to ill health.
How can young people get help?
Your child can get help from a school psychologist or child and adolescent psychiatry. At Lavendla, we also have experienced psychologists who can help.
Can I see a child psychologist privately?
It is possible to see a child psychologist privately. At Lavendla, we have several psychologists with extensive experience working with children and young people.
How long is a treatment?
The treatment is adapted to the child’s or parent’s problems. It can be anything from a few sessions to a more extended treatment over a few years.
Can I see a child psychologist online?
At Lavendla, all of our child psychologists work digitally.
Where can I go if I or my child needs help from a child psychologist?
At Lavendla, we have experienced child psychologists who can also help.
How does treatment with a child psychologist work?
Seeking help from a child psychologist is a crucial step when a child is experiencing mental health difficulties or if you are having difficulties as a parent. Here is a brief overview of what treatment can look like:
Initial consultation: The first step in treatment is an initial consultation, during which the psychologist assesses the child’s and parents’ needs.
Treatment plan: An individualized plan is developed based on the child’s specific situation and needs.
Types of therapy: Common approaches include play therapy for younger children, where play is used as a tool for expression and processing, and talk therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for older children, which focus on changing negative thought patterns and behaviours. Other methods, such as family therapy, can also be helpful.
Parental counselling: Parents receive guidance and support to help their child at home better.
Monitoring and adjustment: The treatment plan is continuously evaluated to ensure the best possible outcome.
It is important to remember that each child is unique so treatment may vary. Working with a child psychologist can give you and your child the tools to manage their emotions and behaviours healthily. At Lavendla, we have child psychologists who can help make the hard stuff easier.
