An Alternative to Behavior Modifying Medications: Psychological Help for Children

Chose psychological counseling in conjunction with or instead of medication as the best course of action for your child. Search for a therapist licensed to practice in your state and review her credentials to ensure years of experience with children. According to Kids Health, you may need to meet with several therapists before you find a situation that feels comfortable to you. Counseling sessions are usually billed by the hour. The therapist will employ techniques such as talk therapy and structured play.

Separation Anxiety Disorder: Separation anxiety disorder in children is characterized by extreme stress when the child and caregiver separate, according to information provided by HelpGuide.org. Seek psychological help when the anxiety is excessive enough, that it interferes with your child's ability to engage in ordinary life. Seek diagnostic testing and therapy from pediatric specialists to diagnose and treat this condition. During therapy sessions your child learns to develop coping strategies and control physical symptoms. Your therapist may engage psychological techniques such as talk therapy, play therapy and family counseling.

Abused Children: Psychological help provides abused children with a secure place and safe relationship to work out problems. It presents an opportunity for children to develop a relationship with a trustworthy adult. Structured and unstructured play, including artwork and music, are some of the psychology techniques used in addition to talk therapy. Abused children may also benefit from group counseling, according to Emily Jean McFadden in her book Counseling Abused Children.

Understanding Your Child's Counselor: Parents should know counseling children, especially those victimized by abuse, can be emotionally taxing for therapists. Therapy sessions may stir up complex feelings for the adult, says McFadden. It is not uncommon for therapists and counselors feel anger toward the parents when they are the perpetrators of the abuse. (REF 2)

Parent Participation: Parents are often invited to participate in the healing process of their child. The non-profit community outreach organization WOAR explains this may begin with a reading list. Your child's counselor may request parental participation during sessions and at home. Homework for parents, such as a keeping a daily behavior journal, allow her therapist to gain insight into your child's day to day existence.

Health Insurance: Some health insurance plans cover psychological help for your child. The details of the coverage vary with the particular policy you have. The customer service line of your health insurance company and the details of your policy should provide the answers you need. Kids Health, a children's health system, advises asking about co-payments and the maximum number of sessions your health insurance permits.

*If you enjoyed this article, feel free to post a link to it in your blog or favorite social networking website.

References:
HELPGUIDE.org: Separation Anxiety in Children
ERIC Digests: Counseling Abused Children
WOAR: Children's Services
KidsHealth: Taking Your Child to a Therapist