|
I've often had parents ask me, how can they tell if a child needs therapy and while there are no absolute answers, there are several determining factors I use to answer that question. For instance, I look at a two year old is having temper tantrums quite differently than I do a twelve year old displaying the same behavior. A six-year old who would rather help her mother clean than play with friends might benefit from some counseling. If the behavior is that of an younger or older child, therapy may be helpful. To a child, school is his full time job and if he is having problems academically, behaviorally or socially that is cause for concern. I am concerned when a first or second grade child does not want to go to school, because these years are the foundation of his education. Children also need to adapt socially in order to grow and develop successfully. Children experience emotions differently than adults. Depression and anixety can mask themselves with fatigue, ambiguous illness, inappropriate anger and withdrawl among other symptoms. Divorce, death of a loved one or special pet birth of a sibling or other major life adjustments are often reasons children come to therapy. When a happy-go-lucky, playful child becomes withdrawn, or an shy child becomes aggressive, this is often an indication that there is a problem that needs to be addressed. These are some of the many reasons that children may benefit from counseling. back to the top How to Choose a Therapist back to the top Types of Therapy Psychiatrists are trained as medical doctors and can write prescriptions for medications if necessary. While medical doctors can also prescribe psychiatric medications, psychaitrists often have more training and experience with the particular medications. Ideally, a child psychiatrist is preferable because there is sometimes a difference between the way medications effect adults and children. Because of recent changes in insurance reimbursement, many psychiarists no longer provide psychotherapy, but do evaluations and medicine checks. Often clients see psychiatrist for their medication and another type of counselor for their therapy. Psychologists provide assessment and treatment for emotional and behavior problems with individuals, families, couples or groups using a variety of different techniques. Most states require licensed psychologists to have a doctorate, pass a rigorous examination, and take continuing education courses. Clinical Social Workers have completed at least a master degree. Licensing varies from state to state. The National Association of Social Workers (NASW)has a code of ethics which must be followed by members. Not all social workers are trained as therapists, so be sure to ask for a clinical social worker. In marital therapy the focus is on the treatment of the couple, not the individuals, while family therapy works with the family unit. Often times a child's behavior or emotional problems masks problems in the family. I have seen many kids who act out as a way to call attention to problems in the family or between parents. There are several different types of group therapy, including gender specific, and problem specific. This can be used alone or in addition to psychological or psychiatric treatment. back to the top Books back to the top Links back to the top
|
||
|
Website
Design and Flash Animations done by
Marianne
Huizer
|