When might it help for your child to see a psychologist?

Parents often tell us they are unsure whether what they are seeing is part of an ordinary rough patch or a sign that their child needs some extra support. That uncertainty is understandable. Children’s emotions and behaviour change as they grow, and difficult days do not automatically mean something is wrong.

A useful starting point is to look at how long the change has lasted, how intense it is and how much it is affecting everyday life. You do not need to wait for a crisis or have a diagnosis in mind before asking for guidance.

Changes that may be worth discussing

Every child is different, but it may be helpful to speak with a health professional when changes are ongoing, distressing or affecting more than one part of your child’s life. You might notice:

• frequent worry, fear, sadness, irritability or emotional overwhelm
• withdrawal from family, friends or activities they usually enjoy
• behaviour that is becoming difficult to manage at home, school or childcare
• a noticeable change in sleep, appetite, energy or daily routines
• school refusal, falling participation or difficulty coping with learning demands
• repeated physical complaints such as headaches or stomach aches when no clear medical explanation has been found
• difficulty adjusting to grief, family separation, illness, bullying, trauma or another significant change
• concerns about attention, development, learning, communication or social relationships

Begin with a calm conversation

Choose a quiet time and describe what you have noticed without assuming the reason. For example: “I have noticed mornings have felt really hard lately. How have things been feeling for you?”

Listen without rushing to solve the problem. Younger children might communicate more through play, behaviour or drawings than through a direct conversation. Teenagers may need time and privacy before they are ready to talk.

It can also help to ask teachers or other trusted adults whether they have noticed similar changes. Different information from home and school is not necessarily a contradiction; children can respond differently in different environments.

How a child psychologist may help

A child psychologist can work with your child and family to understand what is happening, what is already helping and what support may be appropriate. At The Psychology Hub, support may also be provided by other suitably qualified practitioners, depending on your child’s needs and the type of support required.

Depending on your child’s age and circumstances, this may involve:

• meeting with parents or carers
• talking or working therapeutically with the child or young person
• reviewing developmental, health, family and school information
• using questionnaires or assessment tools when appropriate and within the practitioner’s professional scope
• developing practical strategies for home, school or daily routines
• collaborating with a GP, school or another professional with consent

The first step is not always a formal assessment or a long course of therapy. Sometimes an initial consultation helps clarify what support, if any, would be useful.

What happens at the first appointment?

The psychologist will usually ask about your concerns, when they began, what is happening at home and school, your child’s strengths and what your family hopes will change. The way children and parents participate depends on the child’s age, the reason for attending and what will help everyone feel comfortable.

The clinician will explain confidentiality, parent or carer involvement and the proposed next steps. If another service would be a better fit, they can discuss appropriate options rather than promising a particular treatment or outcome.

Read more about your first appointment.

Finding a child psychologist in North Lakes and online

The Psychology Hub is located at Shop 5/25 Discovery Drive, North Lakes. Families from Kallangur, Redcliffe and surrounding North Brisbane communities can attend the North Lakes clinic. Online appointments may also be available where they are clinically appropriate for the child, family and type of support required.

Not sure who would be the best fit? Our Clinician Matcher can help you find practitioners who work with your child’s age, concerns and support needs. You can also check delivery options, funding information and current availability, and book directly online.

You do not need a GP referral to book with The Psychology Hub. Privately funded clients can self-refer. If you hope to claim a Medicare rebate, speak with your GP about whether a Mental Health Treatment Plan or another referral pathway may be appropriate. Fees, rebates and eligibility can change, so refer to the current Fees & Rebates information rather than relying on an old dollar amount.