When Should a Child See a Psychologist?

The sooner a child gets the help they need, the better their mental health will be. While getting advice from a family member or teacher can be helpful, if you feel like your child is struggling with their mental well-being or behaviour, then it is best to seek professional support.

Psychologists are professionals who specialize in the psychological studies of mental states, perceptual, cognitive, emotional, and social processes, and behaviors Divorce support Sutherland Shire. They often work with children and adolescents, but they can also be found working with adults who are experiencing a range of concerns and problems.

When Should a Child See a Psychologist?

Psychiatrists and therapists are both trained to provide counseling for emotional and behavioral issues, but there are some differences between the two professions.

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has completed 7 or more years of schooling, including a psychiatry program. They then do a residency where they work under supervision for several more years before becoming fully licensed to practice medicine.

Most psychiatrists do not provide therapy, but they can prescribe medication if it is determined that this is the best course of treatment for your child. They can also conduct many tests that a therapist cannot, so they are sometimes recommended by your child’s GP to diagnose mental health disorders and learning disabilities.

They can also help your child and family to cope with a disability such as autism spectrum disorder.

Both therapists and psychologists can help your child to learn coping skills for big feelings such as anxiety and depression, and they can teach families how to communicate better. They can also help you get the diagnosis and support you need for your child to access an IEP or other special needs accommodations at school.