Every parent wants the best for their child. We want to be able to give them everything they want and need. We want to be able to give them the best experiences. We want them to be able to do well, whatever their strengths and interests are. Most of all, we want them to grow into happy, confident, and kind individuals who feel supported, loved, and prepared to take on the world.
When a child is diagnosed with a neurodiverse condition such as ADHD or autism, it can be unsettling. You wonder how life will be for them. Will they be treated differently to their peers? How will it impact their education and future goals. How will it impact their friendships and other relationships.
Older children who have just been diagnosed with a neurodiverse condition may also have these concerns. Particularly around future aspirations and friendships. Having someone they can talk to is critical. Someone who can listen to their concerns and help alleviate their worries. They can also benefit from having the support of an experienced professional who can help them give them the tools they need to continue to thrive.
In this article we look at how to choose a therapist that is right for your child. Here are the factors I recommend considering:
Look for specialisation and experience
When it comes to dealing with our children, we want to find a specialist who understands what they are going through. As someone with ADHD myself, I know how hard it can be at times. I also know first-hand that there are lots of tools and tactics that can be used to help your child thrive.
Finding a specialist that your child loves is key, but it’s also important to find someone that you, as the parent, is also comfortable with. Getting a diagnosis is something that impacts the individual as well as their family you need to know that you are supported too.
Consider their approach
Therapists use different approaches, particularly when working with children, to help them express themselves in a way they feel most comfortable. For example, I often use play therapy or sports therapy when working with younger clients. They don’t want to sit and talk to me face to face, but they can respond well when doing something they enjoy. We take time getting to know one another to build trust and break down any barriers. You know your child best so choose an approach that work best for them.
Find a good personality fit
The most important factor when choosing a specialist to help support your child is finding a good personality fit. If therapy is going to be effective then it’s important that your child feels comfortable, safe and heard. It needs to be someone they feel relaxed around. If possible, arrange an initial consultation with the therapist to see how they interact with your child. After the session, ask your child how comfortable they felt.
Check logistics
There is little value in finding a therapist who already has a full diary, or one who lives 100 miles away. Consider whether you want someone who can meet face to face or if online meets are going to be better. Look at your child’s schedule and decide whether a morning, afternoon or evening slot is going to be better. Seeing a therapist is a commitment on both sides so be sure that it will work for you and your child.
Do your research
When it comes to your child, its important to find the right person. You want to be able to build a relationship with them to get the best results. Seek recommendations from friends and family. You can also contact local support groups who should be able to point you in the right direction. Look at their website and social media pages to get a feel for their experience, their reputation and personality. Each as important as the other. Read reviews and testimonials too.
Remember, you may not get it right first time. If the first therapist you meet with doesn’t quite get your child or give the right level of advice, don’t be put off, try another. There are lots of psychologists out there with different approaches. Ask friends, research online, look at local groups for support and find the one that is right for your child.
The right professional will be one that empathises with your child’s feelings and provides a listening ear while being patient and understanding. The right specialist is the one that helps your child to build their confidence, celebrates their successes and works together with them to help find ways to navigate tricky parts of life.
