Choosing a Child Psychologist for a Conduct Disorder

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, or DSM-IV, there are three subgroups of Attention Deficit and Disruptive Behavior Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Conduct Disorders (CD), and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The DSM-IV classifies conduct behavior disorders into four categories, a) aggressive conduct that threatens or causes harm, b) non-aggressive conduct that causes property damage, c) lying or theft, and d) serious rule violations. If you suspect that your child has a conduct disorder, it is time to look for help. Most parents are reluctant to medicate their children unless absolutely necessary, and rightly so . Psychiatrists are medical doctors who have received additional training in psychopharmacology, neurology, and psychopathology. Psychiatrists focus on the biological or chemical factors of mental disorders.

If counseling seems more suitable to your child's behavior than psychopharmacological intervention, then you need a psychologist. A psychologist is an individual that has an advanced degree in psychology. A child psychologist, or clinical psychologist has specialized in a certain area of psychology. The counseling psychologist should have received either a PhD, PsyD, or an EdD. from an accredited post-graduate college.

Every state has different licensing requirements, but the general requirements for licenser are, the completion of a doctoral degree in psychology, passing the National Psychology Licensing Exam, and two years supervised experience under a licensed psychologist. To make sure that the child psychologist that you are considering is a licensed professional, contact the Association of State and Provincial Boards of Psychology.

After you are sure that the psychologist is qualified, make an appointment with him/her to discuss your child's treatment. When visiting the therapists office, look around. Is it a child friendly environment? When children are put in an unfamiliar situation like therapy, it can help if the office is not too sterile.

The psychologist that you choose should be warm, but also project an air of authority. Children may open up more readily to someone that they perceive as being in charge.

On your visit, discuss therapy options with the psychologist. If any method of treatment that he describes makes you uncomfortable, you should continue your search. Parents and child psychologist should be in agreement as far as the course of therapy, because the parents will be asked to follow guidelines at home.

Support groups for the parents of children with conduct disorders may give you some valuable insight into effective treatments, and opinions of local psychologists. Many support groups are available in online forums. Referrals from other parents may be the best way to select a psychologist for your child. The guidance councilor at your child's school may be able to make recommendations concerning suitable therapists.

As always, it is best to consult with several different psychologists before making your decision. It is equally important that you and your child trust the psychologist and his methods.