What criteria do you look for when you are looking for a good child pshychologist?

Question

My daughter's father died recently, and she is having a difficult time with it. I don't want to just pick someone out of the phone book.

Answer 1

It is as difficult or as easy as picking a medical doctor for your child. You certainly CAN ask for recommendations from your family doctor and even friends. Talk to your daughter's school counselor. They usually offer group grief counseling or can recommend a psychologist or counselor specializing in child grief counseling through Hospice. Once you pick one, (and yes, it really is a crap shoot) you should first visit the doctor. Ask for a consultation with him. Sit down and talk to him yourself. Explain what your daughter is going through, your fears about her ability to handle the emotions, and what his thoughts, and plan of action would be. Get a gut feel for his approach. This will probably require your partcipitation anyway. Dont' forget to take into account your daughter's feelings about the counselor and her need to talk. Keep in mind you MAY have to reconsider your choice if progress is not being made or problems arise. Some children don't want to talk to a stranger about how they feel, they just want to be able to vent their feelings at home. You have to be the best judge. It's great that you realize that she may need someone professional to talk to. Often adults would like to believe that if they see no outward signs of problems that the child has "gotten over it O.K" Just knowing she has a mother who cares enough about how she feels may be just the thing to help her through this whether she gets any benefit from a counselor or not....Good Luck and God Bless you both

Answer 2

Most Psychologists or Psychiatrists will be willing to meet you and your child before you set up paid visits. I suggest meeting with at least 3 to help you make your decision. Any professional that refuses a free consultation is not worth your time.

Things to look for... someone who is kind, gentle, and personable. They should not be cold or sterile, and should immediately greet your child by getting down on their level (if your child is small, they should get to their knees to say hi to your child). They should have toys and pictures and a nice atmosphere for child healing.

Most importantly of all, ask your child who they want to see. A man might be a bad idea if your child is grieving over a father, and they may find a woman more comforting. Ask your child what kind of person they want to see, and ask their impession after meeting a few during consultations.

If you pick one and your child later decides they don't like the person, switch.

This decision should not be made by you alone - it should be made by you, your child, and anyone else close to your child (grandparents, stepparents, etc.).

Jenni
www.paranormal-society.com

Answer 3

Picking someone out of the phonebook is no different than someone sugesting you go see their pshchologist without knowing them..........The best way to go about it would be to ask your doctor to sugest one!
Best luck to your daughter, and to you and the rest of your family!

Answer 4

Good references. Failing that, a background check.