How A Bay Area Educational Psychologist Can Change The Life Of A Child

By Gary Morris


Children that struggle learn and to concentrate, that display anti social behaviour and that generally do not fit into the mould of what society expects is not a new phenomenon. However, in the past such children were labelled as stupid, naughty, wayward and even mentally disturbed. Medical and psychological experts now know that there are a variety of real conditions that can manifest in such symptoms. With help from a Bay Area educational psychologist such children can get a new lease on life.

Teachers, care givers and parents are often in the best position to realize that the behaviour and development of a child may not be normal. Disturbing behaviour and a sudden change in behavioural patterns does not necessarily mean that the child is suffering from a psychological condition, however. He may have experienced trauma or may even suffer from a medical condition that manifest in psychological symptoms.

Some symptoms are common to many psychological conditions. They include an inability to focus on a task and to complete it, learning difficulties, a short attention span and fidgety behaviour. Some children talk incessantly while others withdraw into themselves and refuse to participate in social interaction. Many sufferers struggle to sleep and others develop eating disorders.

Child psychologists use a wide variety of tests and techniques to evaluate potential patients. Some of these tests are objective and measurable, but others are subjective and require careful interpretation. The assessor will also interview the parents. A thorough medical examination is also done because the child may suffer from a medical condition rather than a psychological one.

If a child is diagnosed with a conditions such as ADD, for example, the therapist will prepare a holistic treatment plan. Many parents think that a problem can be managed by means of medications such as Ritalin. This is not the case. Medication is not effective for all symptoms and patients sometimes experience very uncomfortable side effects. Instead, the treatment plan will focus on several areas and aim at helping the child to lead a normal fulfilling life.

Diet, exercise and good sleep are all very important components of a comprehensive treatment program. Just thirty minutes of exercise, preferably out of doors, have proven to be extremely beneficial. Exercise trigger the release of feel good chemical in the brain. A diet that contains enough omega fatty acids and protein is also deemed vital. Parents must ensure that their children get enough sleep.

Regular counselling sessions can help children to understand their own conditions better and to learn techniques in how to cope with and to control their symptoms and their reactions to such symptoms. Activities such as meditation and yoga is encouraged, because they help children to improve their concentration and to focus on their goals. These activities are not competitive in nature and do not place the child under any pressure to perform.

Thousands of children are able to lead perfectly normal lives after their underlying psychological conditions have been diagnosed. They are not disturbed, naughty or stupid. They suffer from a recognized condition that can be treated and managed.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment