What questions do I ask a psychologist who is working with my child?

How to find the right psychologist for my family

Developmentally, it’s common for children to engage in noncompliance or difficult behavior from time to time…. ignoring instructions, pushing boundaries, forgetfulness, tantrums, sibling feuds….this list goes on an on. Parents, do you have a few more on your mind? As caregivers, you likely consider these the “survive” versus “thrive” moments where simply managing to get through the day, the long car ride, or the dinner time chaos is an absolute win. For children, this is their brain’s way of making sense of the world. Whether the challenging behavior is their way of adapting to change, communicating they are having a hard time, problem solving, or simply connecting with others, with the support of loved ones they are able adjust, learn new coping skills, and “thrive.” However, some children may be prone to more challenging behaviors, which can be even harder to manage as a caregiver.

Behavior difficulties resulting from symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and other concerns with behavioral or emotional dysregulation can impact the caregiver-child relationship. These enduring challenges with regulating behavior and emotions can add stress to both the lives of the child and the lives of the loved ones that they rely so heavily on for support. Caregivers, you don’t have to do it alone and there are many evidence-based behavioral parent training models that can help you better understand your child’s needs, develop the skills to more effectively manage child behavior, and to improve your family’s quality of life. Your child is not a bad child, they are having a hard time regulating their behavior or coping. Treatment options to support your child will depend on their needs and goals. Some children may need trauma focused treatment, social skills interventions, or individualized care while adjusting to a life stressor. If you are interested in learning different ways to view your child’s behavior, developing skills that are responsive to their needs and necessary for coping, and looking to improve the overall relationship your child has with loved ones, skill based caregiver training may be helpful for you.

Many caregiver training programs have foundational similarities, such as teaching caregivers how to utilize positive attention, more effectively encourage appropriate behaviors, or teach skills to help you co-regulate with your child. They may also have similarities in how to implement predictable and consistent consequences when needed. Where some training models differ, is the approach. Some programs may focus heavily on teaching you about your child’s brain development and how behaviors make sense (psychoeducation) or help you track behavior patterns, and others may focus on strategies for home. Some programs work with the caregiver and child together teaching positive ways to interact through live coaching and others may emphasize time alone with the caregiver, focusing on skill building to then implement independently with the child at home. Research not only supports the approach to these programs, but also the age or presenting problems with which they are most effective. Research in therapy, particularly behavior therapy, supports the importance of not only evidence-based practices, but how those practices are implemented within a collaborative, strong, therapeutic relationship between the family and the therapist. Every family is unique, every child is unique. Therefore, when you are looking for a therapist to support your child’s behavior and coping, it is important to find a good match with someone who utilizes evidence-based practices (techniques and principals backed in research) with an individualized approach (what will work for you child based on your family’s strengths). It is also important to consider how the therapist includes or collaborates with other individuals supporting your child, particularly if your child is taking medication to manage symptoms.

Consider asking these questions when you are meeting with a psychologist for the first time

• Does this professional have specialized training or certifications in parent training and/or in working with young children who demonstrate similar concerns to my child (e.g., ADHD, ASD, etc)?

• Does this professional conduct therapy in a positive reinforcement paradigm (focusing on positive skill building versus punishment), including how they structure sessions, interact with family, manage child’s behavior, etc.?

• How does the professional include my family in therapy? Are there intentional structures in place to teach caregivers positive ways to communicate and interact with my child?

• How does the professional monitor progress and use this to inform treatment and track family/child goals?

• What are the goals of treatment? What will my family learn or improve after treatment?

• How does the professional collaborate and communicate with caregivers, teachers, or other supportive individuals caring for my child?

• What sorts of activities/expectations are there outside of session?

• What are some ways you will get to know my child and their strengths?

Have questions about Behavioral Parent Training or Behind the Behavior Psychology? Looking to schedule an appointment? Contact Dr. Bobal today!