Finding the Right Child Psychologist for Your Little One
Trying to find the right child psychologist for your kids is sometimes an overwhelming process. With dozens of therapies available, it's difficult to determine whether the sea of faces in front of you contains a professional who can help your child. From determining their wants and needs to identifying the right therapies, there are lots of factors for you to consider.
Choose a child psychologist who is accessible
In a hectic world, logistics almost always come into play when choosing a counselor. If your child has commitments such as school, finding one who's able to operate outside of educational hours or visit them at their academic institution is advisable. Alternatively, you may want to select a child psychologist who can work via Skype. In-office appointments aren't always necessary, and video calls make life easier when you live in a rural area.
Make sure they offer most appropriate therapies
With the field of psychology advancing rapidly, you may want to consider which therapies your child may need before approaching a professional. While the person who assesses your child will ultimately make recommendations, familiarising yourself with what's available streamlines the selection process. For example, while CBT is exceedingly popular, those who face trauma may also benefit from Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Involve your child in the process
Depending on your child's age, you may want to involve them in the selection process. Teenagers will almost certainly have their own preferences and opinions, especially when it comes to discussing highly personal matters with a stranger. Without trying to pry into their biggest challenges, ask if they would prefer a particular approach, frequency and setting. Doing so with older children can make them feel more comfortable with their counselling sessions, which enhances their chances of engaging.
Decide who feels comfortable for your child
Finally, children of many ages may have ideas as to what will make them feel comfortable. In sensitive cases, children may prefer a child psychologist of a particular gender or age. Some may also want to conduct their therapies away from their locale, attend sessions alone or have an introductory session with their chosen professional before committing to them. Laying the groundwork for a relaxing environment leads to better clinical outcomes, so don't steer away from involving your child in the decision-making process.
Ultimately, finding a child psychologist isn't a process you should rush. Consider the options available to you, your child's wishes and logistical challenges. By preparing for a smooth experience, you'll see the greatest benefits.