What is the difference between a child psychologist and a regular psychologist?

Children require a different counselling approach than adults. A qualified child psychologist is trained to interpret the behaviours of a child or adolescent, as well as understanding their conscious and subconscious thoughts. Child psychology of course shares similarities to regular psychology, but it is solely focused on supporting the development of young people.

Using developmental psychology schools of thought, children must go through milestones in their early years, in particular;

• Physical milestones (motor skills like crawling and drawing)
• Cognitive milestones (learning and problem solving)
• Socio-emotional milestones (social skills)
• and Communication milestones.
• Communication milestones

A child psychologist in this field will assess how a child meets these milestones, including how they learn and interact with others.

New Vision Psychology offer a variety of counselling services, that are tailored to meet the needs of your child. Across our five Sydney locations, we are proud to provide a compassionate environment that works for both parents and children. Our registered and clinical psychologists are available to provide assessments or diagnosis through in-person sessions, or telehealth consultations.

Our trained child psychologists in Sydney are educated in multiple therapeutic approaches, including child adolescent psychology, clinical psychology, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Our child psychology experts use their extensive training to provide tailored support to every child and their family.

How does counselling for teens differ from child psychology?

Teen psychology is specifically for adolescents who are in transition between childhood and adulthood, typically referring . to young people aged 13-19 years old. This period of transition can be exciting, and full of discovery as teens begin to figure out who they are, what they like, and their unique personality traits. However, between puberty, school, and new challenges, it’s not uncommon for teens to experience a roller coaster of emotions, hormones, and anxieties. 

Teen counselling addresses mental health for adolescents, taking into consideration their different stages of brain development compared to young children. Teens have developed significantly more than younger children, so it’s important to understand the physiological and psychological distinction at every age to provide the right support for them. 

One of the main differences is that teenagers will often attend the counselling sessions on their own, to discuss their emotions, feelings, and concerns without parental guidance. This allows psychologists to create a space where teenagers are be able to communicate without fear of judgement or reprimand from parents. On the other hand, child psychology is for younger children and parents tend to be more involved.

What are common disorders in children and their symptoms?

Roughly 1 in 7 children in Australia have recently experienced a mental health disorder. ADHD is one of the most common disorders among children and adolescents, along with anxiety, depression, and conduct disorder.

We understand that it can be very difficult for parents, but we strongly recommend familiarising yourself with the most common disorders, and the corresponding symptoms. When you have this knowledge, you can provide your child with the support they need as soon notice anything off with their mood or behaviour.

Common disorders and symptoms of each are as follows;

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) – low concentration, cannot sit still, interrupts others talking
• Conduct Disorder – aggressive, deceitful, disobeys rules (behavioural problems)
• Anxiety Disorder – restlessness, panicking, trouble sleeping
• Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) – hostile, anger episodes
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) – does not make eye contact, uses noises to get attention, does not pick up on others expressions
• Eating Disorders – unhealthy relationship with food, over or undereating
• Depression – long periods of sadness, irregular sleeping, mood swings, crying, self-esteem issues
• Learning Disorders – does not speak, repeats a few words, learning difficulties

What does a child psychologist do?

A child psychologist has experience and training in assessing and treating children and adolescents. They use different scientific disciplines, such as child adolescent psychology, cognitive behaviour psychology, and clinical psychology. Furthermore, they help children, teenagers, and young adults cope with stressors, mental health, and anxieties such as school bullying, family conflicts, divorce and transition difficulties.

A child psychologist provides diagnosis and treatment for children presenting with a wide range of mental health issues such as autism spectrum disorder, learning disorders, attention deficit disorder, autism, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, and adjustment disorder.

How do I know if my child should see a counsellor?

It is not always obvious or easy to determine if your child needs professional support through counselling. However, there are signs that you can look out for such as a sudden change in behaviour or mood, difficulties with learning, withdraw from social activities, long periods of sadness, and regressive behaviour.

Children and adolescents with mental health disorders and neurodevelopmental disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) will display different symptoms, at different severity, and at different stages in their life. As a parent, it is important to understand the symptoms of the most common disorders listed above and monitor how your child is feeling and behaving.

If you do have any concerns regarding your child’s happiness or mental health, our experienced team of compassionate child psychologists are always available to speak with you as a parent, organise a session with your child, and conduct a thorough assessment if necessary. Our mental health professional experts are here to support your family with the right treatment plan, to help manage and overcome any challenges your child if living with.

Will I need a referral to book an appointment with a child psychologist?

No – it is not mandatory to obtain a referral from a doctor to book an appointment with us, or to see a child psychologist. Often, a parent’s intuition is the strongest indication that seeing a professional psychologist would be beneficial. However, if you child has already been diagnosed with a mental health disorder, you might be eligible for a Medicare rebate with a GP Mental Health Care Plan.

How do I choose the right child psychology service for my child?

Trying to select the right psychologist for your child is undeniably challenging. However, it doesn’t need to cause you stress. Find a professional that has considerable experience working with children, understand their background, trust your intuition, and you will be able to find the right child psychologist to support you and your child.

At New Vision Psychology our child psychologists have the knowledge and experience required to connect with kids and adolescents. Our aim is to engage young people in participating proactively in sessions which is aimed at increasing positive outcomes. We also believe in the holistic approach of working collaboratively with parents and caretakers. We provide feedback about your child’s mental health and consult parents on treatment plans for the best outcome.

Will I be able to join in the session with my child?

Yes – of course. We generally encourage parents to be part of the child psychology process. We will have you in on the sessions, as it is important that your child is welcomed into an environment where they feel comfortable being open.

Generally, for kids in primary school and younger, the first session will involve speaking with the parents only, to get a better idea of your concerns without any little ears listening in. This will give our fully registered child and adolescent psychologists a chance to understand your family history, and any background or relevant information about what your child may be going through.

Teenagers and older children usually attend the first session, and parents may or may not be involved depending on their preference.

From there, it will come down to your child, the concerns faced at home or at school, and where we see the most opportunity for your child to open up. For younger kids, parents are usually present for some, if not all, ongoing sessions. For older kids and teens, parents will be involved in some of the sessions.

Our clinical psychologists and child psychologists are experts in helping young people to feel comfortable, safe, and welcomed into the space. Depending on their age, we will often use play, games, or drawing to help children engage and communicate, without the pressure of a clinical environment.

How long will my child need to see a psychologist?

This depends on your child, mental health, concerns, and goals. Our child and adolescent psychology team will generally complete treatment when your child or teen has achieved their goals, and is functioning in a positive, sustainable way at home and/or at school.