Characteristics of an Excellent Child Psychiatrist

Victorian Counselling and Psychological Services

How do you find a good child psychiatrist? It's not easy to find an answer to this question, as there are many different kinds of therapists who do different types of things -- non-therapy, therapy, and specific forms of therapy such as CBT or psychoanalysis. And there's the imperative question on insurance, as well as location.

1) A good child psychiatrist establishes a good relationship with the child. It is believed that 85% of a certain change {could be accredited to the relationship developed. If your child isn't making a significant bond with the therapist or he doesn't put trust on his therapist, then look for someone else. Generally speaking, a good psychiatrist can engage a reluctant child. He must have a real interest in the child, and be willing to understand the world as the child perceives it.

2. A good child psychiatrist does not pathologize the child. The therapist see the the child's strengths and is open to hearing the child's (and his parent's) thoughts about the problem the child is going through. When there is true mental or behavioural condition such as anorexia, truancy, ADHD, or depression, a good psychiatrist examines the problem as the problem. He must not say, "He's a depressed child," but "He's struggling with depression," instead. There is a big difference. A child is absolutely more than several symptoms. The child is underneath the problems he is experiencing, a beautiful individual with a lot of potential. A good child psychiatrist clearly separates the child from the problem. Look for another therapist if you feel that the strengths of your child are being ignored.

3) A good child psychiatrist is also a good partner of the child's guardian, parent, or caregiver. He completely understands that his role as the therapist of the child is just temporary. The ones who really should be there to support the child are the special individuals that are already a part of the child's life. He's humble enough to admit that his contributions are small compared to the support from the child's family and friends. But this doesn't automatically that he should not do what he can to help the child. But still, therapies for children are perceived as one step in the curative process. If the child therapist makes his contributions seem like the only way to cure your child, don't hesitate to look for another one who is humble and appreciative of your child's natural support.

4) A good child psychiatrist never puts blame at other people for the problem the child is experiencing, and definitely he does not puts the blame on the child. He realizes the problem is complex and knows that the solution is often complex too. Putting the blame on family members, parents, or schools won't result in anything good for the child. Helping the parents, the school, and the child to make things significantly easier for the child to defeat the problem is helpful. If you feel like your child's psychiatrist is putting blame on other people for the problem at hand, find a better professional from the team at VCPS who is more action-oriented.