Why doesn’t my child respond to the parenting style I grew up with?
Although the standards for healthy behavior has not changed, how a child responds to and how you motivate them towards meeting that standard depends on a number of different influences. Their unique personality, disposition (laid back or stronger willed), developmental difficulties, family circumstances, and emotional health are some of the many things that may influence their behavioral choices and response to authority. There is a way for parents to meet their children were they are at without lowering behavioral expectations. Through parent training and coaching parents learn how to shape and mold their child’s character, values, and development of essential life skills.
How do I know if my child’s behavior is just part of growing up or something needing profession help?
As mental health counselor my role in your child’s life to provide guidance and training in ways to use healthy social-emotional skills to cope with life’s challenges. In general, most children are able to learn skills to manage even more challenging mental health diagnosis. It is the role of pediatrician or psychiatrist to determine if the child may need or benefit from medication. Choosing to participate in medication management is a decision best made with a trusted medical professional who specializes in pediatric mental health who will respectfully address your concerns and questions.
What if my spouse, co-parent, or parenting partner is not supportive of seeking and/or participating in counseling for our child?
Having parents, step-parents, and parenting partners involved in the counseling process is encouraged but not always possible. This doesn’t mean you or your child cannot be successful in reaching your goals. If a co-parent is not able or willing to attend sessions they are encouraged to attend by phone or as much as possible. Having at least one consistent, loving, and supportive parent or caregiver is a child’s single most essential need for a healthy development and success. In some case where legal or safety issues limit their participation please let us know during your initial phone call. In some case you will asked to provide legal documents (custody, injunctions, etc.) prior to your child’s first session.
How long does my child have to be in counseling?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Each family’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time therapy can take to allow you to accomplish your goals is dependent many different factors. After the initial assessment with the parent(s) and their child, treatment goals will be developed that will give an estimated time frame.
Are you going to recommend medication for my child?
As mental health counselor my role in your child’s life to provide guidance and training in ways to use healthy social-emotional skills to cope with life’s challenges. In general, most children are able to learn skills to manage even more challenging mental health diagnosis. It is the role of pediatrician or psychiatrist to determine if the child may need or benefit from medication. Choosing to participate in medication management is a decision best made with a trusted medical professional who specializes in pediatric mental health who will respectfully address your concerns and questions.