How To Find A Psychologist for Children: Help With Childhood ADHD

More than 6 million children have been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in the United States. 

ADHD is a mental health disorder that makes it difficult for children to control behaviors and thoughts. 

If your child is displaying signs of ADHD, like the inability to focus, you may want to look into getting professional help. 

Continue reading to discover the most important factors when searching for a psychologist for children! 

1. Ask Questions 

If you are looking for a psychologist for children, you will want to ask questions while picking the right one. 

Asking questions can help you determine if they will be able to provide the right care to your child and can give you more information about the psychologist's professional history. 

Don't be afraid to ask questions as they come up in your mind. You can also write down some questions you may have and bring them to a consultation appointment to help prepare. 

2. Talk About Expectations 

When it comes to your children, you likely have some expectations from the doctor to help address your concerns. 

Be open and transparent with the psychologist so that expectations are clear. Communication will help keep you, your child, and the psychologist on the same page, with the same goals. 

Take time to discuss your goals with the psychologist before committing so that you can get an idea of their treatment style. If you are unable to reach a goal that the doctor sets, be transparent with them and discuss the difficulties that you had. 

3. Check Credentials 

There are many credentials that a psychologist for children must obtain before legally practicing in the field. 

Since there are so many types of therapists, you will want to ensure that you are working with the right person for your child's ADHD needs. ADHD psychologists for children require a master's degree and Ph.D. The master's degree should focus on children's development or clinical psychology. 

When you go to check if the therapist has a Ph.D., make sure that it focuses on research or clinical practice. 

4. Review the Treatment Plan

Each patient receives a treatment plan that is specifically designed for their needs. 

By discussing treatment plans with the psychologist, you can set goals as a group and observe the progress that is made over time. This step often involves your child because they are the center of focus. Patient-centered treatment plans help keep your child on task by giving them responsibility and control over their treatment. 

5. Speak with Your Child

When choosing behavioral psychologists for children, make sure that you speak with your child too. 

Your child can let you know if they feel comfortable with the doctor, which will improve treatment effectiveness. Talk to your child about any concerns or worries they have so that they are unafraid of the process. 

Finding a Psychologist for Children Can Be Simple 

When finding a psychologist for children, there are many things that you must consider. 

You will want to find a psychologist with the proper credentials and ability to set clear expectations. By speaking with your child, you can find out who they are most comfortable with to make treatment more effective.

Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek additional information. 

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