When used in therapy, games can be a powerful tool to help improve motivation, increase levels of engagement, and strengthen the therapeutic relationship. Using play as a strategy in therapy can help you and your child find success in treatment and have fun as you work toward your goals.
When it comes to psychologists (PhD or PsyD), licensed professional counselors (LPCs), licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), psychiatrists, and more, there are a few similarities and differences to keep in mind to help you better understand what types of mental health providers are available to work with. There are dozens of unique specializations, credentials, and titles that you may come across when researching your options. Learn more about the education and training that different therapists go through to determine which type of mental health provider can best help you meet your treatment goals.
Choosing an evidence-based treatment (EBT) approach to therapy has a big impact on the quality of the services you receive and the results you see. Evidence-based treatments are research-supported approaches that are shown to be effective in addressing specific needs. Choosing to work with a provider who offers cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), or another tested method can help you meet your therapy goals.
Feeding disorders and eating disorders are terms which are often used interchangeably. However, there are distinct differences between these two diagnoses. Key factors, such as motivation, age of onset, behavioral features, and the emotions experienced with these disorders can help determine a diagnosis. An accurate assessment is the first step to identifying which evidence-based treatments will best support the needs of your child.
School-based evaluations and comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations both aim to identify learning and developmental needs. You may consider pursuing an evaluation if you have concerns for your child’s cognitive abilities, school performance, or behavioral problems. It’s important to understand the key differences between these evaluations so that you can decide on the best next step to help your child succeed.
Starting therapy can be a big step for your child, and you might feel unsure about how to begin that conversation. Whether your child feels nervous about starting therapy, or even excited to meet with a child psychologist, it’s helpful to prepare them for that first meeting. There are a few key talking points to help you navigate that discussion so that you can set your child and yourself up for success in therapy.