Questions to ask a child therapist?

[spatulagirl]

DH and I are looking for a therapist to help us and DS. We have never done this before so I want to make sure we find the right one. What kind of questions should we be asking them? I called and left messages with 6 or so that our insurance gave us.

DS hasn't been diagnosed with anything but we are having issues that just keep getting worse. Anger, lying, violence, etc. He is almost five. WE need outside help but we need to make sure we find the right help.

[Roar]

A few ideas:

Where did you go to school and how long have you been practicing?

What is your theoretical orientation?

Describe the problems and ask " what type of experience do you have working with children with these sorts of problems?" "what are some typical approaches you might try?" "how long might treatment be for this type of problem?

How do you involve parents in the process - how often would you communicate with us?

What are some of the parenting books you suggest most often?

What do you suggest we tell our child about starting therapy?

Do religious views play any part in the therapy you provide?

[kriskriskris]

I dont know what all is going on with your little one but I would recommend finding a play therapist or a therapist that would do play therpay, as play is how chidren solve/work through thier problems... now PT doesnt work for everybody but it wouldnt hurt to give it a try.

Also children are pretty good about knowing who they like and who they can trust... remember to take your little ones feelings into account and see how after a few sessions they are around the therapist.

Good Luck!

[babybugmama]

Given that he's only 5, you probably will need a therapist trained in play therapy, but also in teaching parenting skills. Ask them if they've heard of books like "how to raise your spirited child," etc.

And I agree with kriskriskris - use your gut too on determining fit. Someone could be perfectly qualified, but somehow you just don't click. Given your sons age they will likely spend a lot of time with you the parent(s) and giving you guidance on how to respond to his anger and violence.

I would also ask about their stance on medication. Some therapists are very gung ho, others are more conservative.

Good luck