Child and Adolescent Psychology

Determining whether your child needs to see a child psychiatrist or child psychologist depends on the nature of their difficulties and the specific expertise required. Here are some factors to consider:

Child Psychologist:

• Emotional and Behavioural Concerns: If your child is experiencing emotional issues such as anxiety, depression, or behavioural challenges like aggression, defiance, or difficulty in social interactions, a child psychologist can help.

• Learning and Developmental Challenges: If your child is struggling with learning difficulties, attention problems, or developmental delays that impact their academic performance or social functioning, a child psychologist can provide assessments and interventions.
• Counselling and Therapy: Child psychologists specialise in talk therapy and provide support for various mental health concerns, helping children develop coping strategies, improve emotional well-being, and enhance social skills.

Child Psychiatrist:

• Diagnosing and Treating Mental Health Disorders: If your child’s difficulties appear to be more complex and may require medical intervention, such as diagnosing and treating conditions like ADHD, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, or psychotic disorders, a child psychiatrist’s expertise may be beneficial.

• Medication Management: If medication is deemed necessary for your child’s mental health condition, a child psychiatrist can evaluate, prescribe, and monitor medication effectiveness and potential side effects.

• Severe or Persistent Symptoms: If your child is exhibiting severe symptoms, experiencing significant distress, or their symptoms persist despite other interventions, a child psychiatrist can offer specialised assessment and treatment options.

Child Psychotherapist:

• Broad Range of Mental Health Concerns: Psychotherapists specialise in providing therapy for various mental health concerns and can assist children with emotional difficulties, behavioural challenges, relationship issues, trauma, and more.

• Talk Therapy and Emotional Support: Psychotherapists use various therapeutic approaches, including talk therapy, to help children process emotions, develop coping skills, improve communication, and work towards positive change.

• Art Therapy: Some psychotherapists may integrate art therapy techniques into their practice, combining verbal dialogue and artistic expression to enhance therapeutic outcomes and cater to individual needs.

• Collaborative Care: In some cases, a child psychotherapist may collaborate with child psychologists and child psychiatrists to provide comprehensive care, integrating different modalities and perspectives for the child’s well-being.

It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional in Singapore, such as a paediatrician or mental health specialist, who can assess your child’s needs and make appropriate referrals to a child psychiatrist, child psychologist, or child psychotherapist based on their expertise and the specific concerns at hand.

There are several compelling reasons to take your child to a psychiatrist for children in Singapore. For example, if you suspect that your child is struggling with a psychological disorder, such as anxiety disorders, clinical depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders, manic depression, and so on, a child psychiatrist can assist your young one in effectively managing their condition. Furthermore, if your child is experiencing significant levels of stress either at home or in school, a child psychiatrist can help them resolve their difficulties and alleviate tension.

During the first visit to a child psychiatrist in Singapore, the doctor, your child, and you will have an opportunity to get to know each other. The psychiatrist will inquire about any challenges or difficulties your child is facing and ask about any previous medical or mental health concerns. The nature of the initial appointment will depend on the child’s age and situation. For younger children, the parent will likely be present to assist the psychiatrist in comprehending the circumstances. Older children may benefit from a private session with the psychiatrist without the parent’s presence as some children may feel more comfortable to communicate freely without their parents around.

After the assessment, the psychiatrist will discuss their findings and the suggested follow-up plan with you, which may include specific testing, more extensive evaluation, or medical therapy. If there is anything you do not comprehend, be sure to ask questions. A competent child psychiatrist in Singapore will gladly clarify any issues and spend as much time as necessary to ensure that everyone is at ease moving forward.

During the first visit to a child psychiatrist at Promises Healthcare, the focus is on establishing a positive and comfortable rapport with both the child and the parent or caregiver. The psychiatrist will create a safe space for open communication and understanding.

The initial appointment typically involves gathering comprehensive information about the child’s medical and mental health history, as well as any current challenges or difficulties they may be experiencing. The psychiatrist may ask questions about the child’s symptoms, behaviours, emotions, and social interactions to gain a holistic understanding of their condition.

For younger children, the parent or caregiver will likely be present throughout the session to provide additional context and support. Older children and adolescents may have a private session with the psychiatrist to encourage open and confidential dialogue.

Based on the information gathered, the psychiatrist will conduct a thorough assessment to determine an accurate diagnosis, if applicable, and develop an individualised treatment plan. This plan may include various approaches, such as therapy, medication, or a combination of both, depending on the child’s needs.

The psychiatrist will discuss their findings and recommendations with the child and their parent or caregiver. They will explain the treatment options, potential benefits, and any possible risks or side effects. It’s essential to ask any questions or express any concerns during this time to ensure clarity and understanding.

During the first visit to a child psychologist or child psychotherapist at Promises Healthcare, the focus is on establishing a strong therapeutic relationship and understanding the child’s unique needs. The session is designed to create a safe and comfortable environment where the child can express themselves freely.

The initial appointment typically begins with an introduction and an opportunity for the child and their parent or caregiver to meet the psychologist or psychotherapist. This helps build trust and familiarity. The therapist may also explain the purpose and goals of therapy, ensuring that both the child and the parent have a clear understanding of what to expect.

The therapist will engage in a conversation with the child, using age-appropriate techniques and language to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. They may use various therapeutic modalities, such as play therapy, talk therapy, or art therapy, depending on the child’s age, preferences, and therapeutic goals.

The therapist will ask questions to gather information about the child’s background, including their family, school, and social dynamics. They will also inquire about any specific challenges or difficulties the child is facing, such as emotional struggles, behavioural issues, or social interactions.

This initial session serves as an opportunity for the therapist to assess the child’s mental and emotional well-being, identify any underlying concerns, and determine the appropriate course of treatment. The therapist may use standardised assessment tools or observation techniques to gain a comprehensive understanding of the child’s strengths, weaknesses, and areas of improvement.

At the end of the session, the therapist will discuss their initial impressions and recommendations with the child’s parent or caregiver. They will collaboratively develop a treatment plan tailored to the child’s specific needs and goals. This plan may include regular therapy sessions, therapeutic interventions, and strategies to support the child’s growth and development.

At Promises Healthcare, we understand the importance of transparency when it comes to the fees for our services. As fees may vary depending on the specific treatment plan and duration, we encourage you to visit our page regarding our fees on our website for detailed information. Our page provides a comprehensive overview of the costs associated with our services, allowing you to make an informed decision.