Child & Family
Parenting Issues
Parents sometimes seek a consultation for guidance on a particular issue of concern. It is often not necessary to bring the child, and changes in parental understanding of the meaning of the child's behaviour is often enough to improve the situation.
Behavioural and Emotional Problems
Depending on the age and developmental level of the child or teenager, the young person can find it helpful to have the support of an adult who is not an "authority" figure. It can, of course, take time to build trust, which can be fragile in children who are feeling hurt or confused. They may feel bad about their behaviour, overwhelmed by their feelings or ashamed of their thoughts. An initial appointment to assess whether or not they are willing to engage in the process is the fairest way to deal with any reluctance. In the vast majority of cases they then feel respected in their right to opt in or out. This is vital, as "you can bring the horse to the water..."
Some children internalise their problems, harming themselves with worry, self injury or withdrawal. Others externalise their problems by directing their energy outward, by bullying, defiance and lashing out. Either way (and some children do both) an experienced diagnostician can help to identify and advise on management.
Some children internalise their problems, harming themselves with worry, self injury or withdrawal. Others externalise their problems by directing their energy outward, by bullying, defiance and lashing out. Either way (and some children do both) an experienced diagnostician can help to identify and advise on management.