Parents often ask what they should tell their young child about visiting a psychologist, without the fear factor! A suggestion is to describe their impending visit as about ‘making them happy’. Most people want to feel happy and children benefit from knowing that many things can upset them and that it’s not often their fault. Parents can explain that school difficulties can make them worry, bullies can be scary, getting into trouble at home is not much fun, or having had bad things happen to them or families split up, all affect their happiness. In other words, trying to normalize a visit to a psychologist as something many people do and to see it as helpful, rather than a sign of them being blamed, is the best approach.
Many of the sessions are interactive and include picture cards, art, role plays, puppets and play therapies. Visual and hands-on activities mostly appeal to a young child’s learning style which assists them to relate to and engage in counselling. Assessments are often carried out (depending on your child’s issue) and this may require the parent or teacher to complete questionnaires and or your child to respond to a set of questions. These are always discussed with parents as part of the ‘Care Plan’.
Please Note: At the time of booking, you'll be asked to make a deposit to confirm your appointment